These days, there are countless ways to keep your skin moisturized—from thick balms and creams to lighter lotions and serums. While all of these products aim to hydrate and soften the skin, there are some fundamental differences worth noting.
Take body serums and body oils, for example. Both help nourish your skin and improve softness, but they differ in ingredients, absorption rates, texture, and how they’re used. Serums are typically water-based and contain smaller molecules that penetrate deeply into the skin. Oils, on the other hand, have larger molecules that sit on the skin’s surface to seal in moisture. Below, we break down the differences and help you decide which is best for your routine.
What Is a Body Serum?
Body serums are lightweight, water-based moisturizers designed to hydrate and deliver active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, or peptides into the skin. They’re meant to hydrate without feeling greasy and serve as an effective delivery system for skin-loving nutrients. Thanks to their small molecules and water-soluble nature, serums absorb more deeply into the skin than oil-based products.
Body serums are great for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin—just be mindful of the other ingredients in the formula. For very dry skin, you can layer a heavier moisturizer or oil on top. Serums are especially beneficial for normal to oily skin, or skin dealing with specific concerns like pigmentation, dullness, or early signs of aging.
What Is a Body Oil?
As the name suggests, body oils are oil-based moisturizers designed to nourish and soften the skin. They don’t technically add hydration but instead lock in moisture, leaving the skin glowing, supple, and smooth.
Body oils consist of larger molecules that remain on the skin’s surface, meaning they’re less effective at delivering active ingredients deep into the skin. However, many high-quality body oils contain essential oils or plant extracts that provide barrier protection and help shield the skin from environmental stressors.
While most skin types can benefit from body oils, they’re particularly helpful for dry, mature, or dehydrated skin. Oils create an occlusive layer that locks in moisture, making them especially useful in dry or cold climates. Some oils also have anti-inflammatory properties that can support skin prone to acne or rosacea—just be careful, since occlusive oils can sometimes clog pores.
Key Differences
Ingredients & Composition
Body serums often feature a higher concentration of active ingredients thanks to their water-based formulas, which can carry ingredients deeper into the skin. Oils, by contrast, are limited to oil-soluble ingredients. While new technologies are improving delivery systems, oils still can’t penetrate as deeply or address as many concerns as serums can.
Common Ingredients in Body Serums:
-
Hyaluronic acid
-
Peptides
-
Vitamin C
-
Niacinamide
-
Botanical extracts
-
Antioxidants
Common Ingredients in Body Oils:
-
Jojoba oil
-
Almond oil
-
Argan oil
-
Rosehip oil
-
Squalane
-
Essential oils
Texture & Absorption
Serums absorb quickly and don’t leave a greasy residue due to their lightweight texture and smaller molecules. Oils take longer to absorb and may leave a rich or oily finish on the skin.
Hydration vs. Moisture
Serums hydrate from within, helping to plump and rejuvenate skin. Oils seal in moisture and protect the skin’s barrier, making them ideal for maintaining hydration once it’s already been applied.
How to Apply
The rule of thumb is to apply products from lightest to heaviest. Start with clean skin, apply a serum, then follow with a richer cream or body oil. And don’t forget sunscreen during your morning routine!
When & How to Apply
After showering, apply body serum to damp skin to enhance absorption—just a few pumps massaged into the skin is enough. Oils can then be applied after serums or on their own, especially at night since they may leave a slick finish. For best results, apply oils to slightly damp skin to lock in water and enhance softness.
Skin Concerns
If you have dry skin, active serums may be more beneficial, though oils can help mimic natural sebum. Skin conditions like acne and rosacea can be managed with either product depending on the ingredients.
Serums often contain actives that target fine lines, dark spots, uneven tone, and texture—making them especially effective for people with specific skin goals.
Choosing Between Body Serum and Body Oil
While you can definitely use both, the right choice depends on your skin type, concerns, and the season:
-
For normal to oily skin or targeted concerns: Go with a serum for its lightweight feel and potent ingredients.
-
For dry, mature, or winter skin: Use a body oil to boost moisture and support the skin barrier.
-
For combination or sensitive skin: Try a layering approach—serum first, then oil—to get both hydration and long-lasting moisture.