Glow Definition
A face oil refers to an oil-based skincare product used to lock in moisture, soften the skin’s surface, and add a final layer of nourishment in glow-focused routines. Unlike water-based products that hydrate, face oils work by creating an occlusive barrier — helping to prevent moisture loss while enhancing the feel of your routine.
In the mornings, face oil can be applied after a serum and before SPF to smooth texture and enhance natural radiance. In the evenings, face oil can be layered over a moisturizer or a night cream to help lock in hydration and boost overnight softness. This step isn’t essential for every skin type, but when layered intentionally, it creates that plush, sealed-in glow that makes a routine feel complete.
Note: Some links in this glossary are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to shop through them — at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting GlamourTip and future glow guides!
Why It Matters
Face oil plays a unique supporting role in glow routines, especially for skin that leans dry, dehydrated, or prone to environmental stress. It’s not about replacing your moisturizer — it’s about locking everything in. By sealing in the layers that came before — like your serum, essence, or cream — it helps prevent transepidermal water loss and ensures your active formulas stay effective longer.
The right face oil in skincare also enhances the skin’s natural radiance, smoothes over texture, and adds a soft-focus finish that makes your complexion look lit from within. And for many routines, it’s the step that signals a reset — a moment to press, breathe, and let everything absorb.
GLOW TIP Always warm your face oil between your palms first — then press it in, don’t rub. This helps the oil absorb beautifully while sealing in the layers beneath.
Why We Love It For Glow
Face oils bring that final flourish of radiance — the kind that looks lit from beneath, not layered on top. Whether your routine ends with a moisturizer or a night cream, pressing in a few drops of oil helps seal in hydration while adding that coveted finish: soft, smooth, light-catching skin that still breathes.
We reach for face oils when skin feels parched, the weather turns dry, or simply when we need that extra something that takes glow from subtle to seen.
Reach for Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Face Oil — a silky, antioxidant-rich face oil designed to give dull skin a luminous boost.
Lightweight yet deeply nourishing, this oil blends maqui, acai, and goji to soften the skin’s surface while locking in hydration. It’s ideal as the final step in a nighttime routine or as a glow-enhancing layer under SPF.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a face oil and a moisturizer in skincare routines?
A moisturizer typically blends water and emollients to hydrate and soften the skin, while a face oil is oil-based and used to seal everything in. The two often work best when layered together — with the oil going on last to lock in moisture and enhance glow.
Can face oil be used in the morning under sunscreen?
Yes — but it depends on the formula. Lightweight oils like squalane or jojoba can layer beautifully under SPF, adding radiance without pilling. Heavier oils, on the other hand, are better reserved for evening routines.
Is face oil necessary if I already use a hydrating serum?
Think of face oil as the finishing touch, not a duplicate step. While serums target hydration or treatment, oils help reinforce the skin’s barrier and prevent water loss. If your skin feels tight or your glow fades fast, a few drops of oil may be the missing link.