Face Serum vs. Face Oil - What's the difference?

When it comes to achieving healthy, radiant skin, understanding the right products for your routine is essential. Two of our most beloved skincare heroes are the Regenerating Face Serum and the Nourishing Face Oil – both powerful, results-driven treatments that transform and support all skin types. But what sets them apart?

Let’s explore the key differences so you can discover which one, or both, deserve a place in your skincare routine.

1. Structure

Serum

Water based and thinner compared to other facial products, serums tend to contain small molecules which means they can penetrate deeper through the skin barrier. They absorb quickly which makes them ideal to apply after cleansing and before moisturising. 

Oil

Oil based products contain larger molecules which take longer to absorb into the skin. They don’t usually contain water and the oil-soluble ingredients make them ideal for combatting dry and dehydrated skin. 

2. Texture and Feel

ishga Regenerating Face Serum

Our Serum is lightweight and has a gel-like consistency. It absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any residue. You will notice your skin will start to feel firm after application and this is perfectly normal.

ishga Nourishing Face Oil

Our Face Oil is rich and luxurious but lightweight enough that it is easily absorbed into the skin. It will leave your skin soft, supple and deeply nourished, the natural formula will glide over your face leaving you with a dewy glow. 

3. Key Ingredients and Benefits

Regenerating Face Serum

• Highly concentrated ingredients – Our Serum contains three core ingredients: Fucus serratus extract; Hebridean seawater and aloe vera. The higher concentration of active ingredients may provide more visible results compared to other skincare products.  Fucus Serratus Seaweed has also been found to regenerate skin cells, promote and deliver hydrating properties to lock in moisture. Hebridean seawater has a rich mineral content offers fantastic benefits for the skin. Aloe vera hydrates, soothes and promotes skin renewal. It is ideal for reducing redness and inflammation whilst promoting a refreshed and even skin tone.
• Tightens and firms skin.
• Reduces the appearance of fine lines.
• Ideal for improving skin texture and tone, delivering noticeable results over time.

Nourishing Face Oil

• Nourishing essential oils - Our Face Oil contains a perfect blend of essential oils. Jojoba oil protects and heals the skin, while also helping to reduce redness. Thistle oil has been found to clear congested skin and decrease the size of pores. It's ideal for all skin types, but especially those with oily and combination skin. Almond oil is lightweight and quick to absorb. It is great for hydration and ideal for those with sensitive skin. 
• Deeply hydrating.
• Balances sebum production.
• Reduces enlarged pores.

4. When to Apply

ishga Regenerating Face Serum

Cleanse your skin with either ishga Active Cleansing Lotion, Exfoliating Face Wash or Marine Cleansing Balm. Follow with a spritz of Hebridean Marine Toner and then apply a small amount of Regenerating Face Serum with raindrop motions and allow the product to properly absorb into the skin for 1-2 minutes. You are now ready to apply your facial oil and/or moisturiser. Use in the mornings and evenings.

ishga Nourishing Face Oil

To get the oil working at its optimum, apply after a serum. In the evening for an extra boost of hydration, apply your facial oil followed by your moisturiser. People with dry skin will find this extra step of moisturisation very beneficial. Our Nourishing Facial Oil can be used in the morning and evenings, some prefer just in the evenings while others will use twice daily. See our how to apply video for optimum results here.

These two products complement each other perfectly, working in harmony to elevate your skincare routine. Even if you choose just one, you’re taking a powerful step towards radiant, healthy skin.