Oil or Lotion First? The Correct Skincare Order Explained
Have you ever held a bottle of lotion and body oil in front of your mirror and wondered which should be used first? You’re not by yourself. Thousands of people look for “oil or lotion first” every day in an attempt to figure out the proper sequence for their skincare regimen.
This misunderstanding is somewhat common as lotion and oil both moisturise the skin, but they function differently. Your skin may become greasy or dry if you use them out of order, which will lessen their effectiveness.
This post will discuss how to make your skin glow naturally, why the order is important, and whether to apply lotion or oil first. The science underlying each product, typical errors, professional guidance, and real-world examples will also be covered. By the end, you’ll understand just what to use and when for skin that is moisturised, supple, and seems healthy.
Oil or Lotion First? – Quick Answer
The short answer: Apply lotion first, then oil.
👉 Why: Lotion is water-based and helps hydrate your skin. Oil, on the other hand, locks in that moisture by creating a protective layer.
Example:
- Take a shower.
- Pat your skin slightly dry.
- Apply lotion first (to add moisture).
- Then seal it in with oil (to keep moisture from escaping).
💡 Tip: If you put oil first, it can block lotion from absorbing, making your skin feel heavy or sticky.
The Origin of “Oil or Lotion First”
The debate about applying oil or lotion first began as skincare routines evolved. Historically, people used natural oils like olive or coconut oil for moisturizing. Later, cosmetic companies created lotions—lighter, water-based products that hydrate faster.
As both became popular, confusion arose about layering them. Dermatologists eventually explained that skincare works best when you apply lighter, water-based products first (like lotion) and heavier, oil-based products second.
So, the rule is rooted in chemistry: water absorbs, oil seals.
British English vs American English Spelling
In British and American English, the words oils and lotions are spelled the same. However, product names and preferences vary slightly.
| Aspect | British English | American English | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Product | Body oil | Body oil | “Use a nourishing body oil after lotion.” |
| Lotion Type | Moisturiser (UK spelling) | Moisturizer (US spelling) | “Apply moisturizer first.” |
| Skin Routine Term | Skincare routine | Skin-care routine | Both accepted globally |
Therefore, while spelling is the same, the difference lies in terminology and usage rather than word form.
Which Should You Use First?
- If your skin is dry: Use lotions first, then oils to seal hydration.
- If your skin is oily: Use a lightweight lotions and skip oils, or apply just a drop afterward.
- If your skin is very dry (winter): Layer both for maximum softness — lotions first, oils second.
🌿 Expert Tip: Think of it like dressing your skin — lotions is your soft cotton layer, oils is your warm jacket that locks in comfort.
Common Mistakes with “Oil or Lotion First”
- Applying oil before lotions → Blocks hydration.
- Using too much oils → Makes skin greasy and clogs pores.
- Skipping lotion entirely → Misses essential hydration.
- Not applying on damp skin → Reduces moisture absorption.
- Mixing oil and lotion in the palm → Can lessen effectiveness.
Always layer properly: light → heavy.
“Oil or Lotion First” in Everyday Examples
- Skincare Blogs: “Dermatologists recommend lotions before oils for better absorption.”
- Social Media: “I tried using oil after lotion — my skin is glowing!”
- Magazines: “Winter skincare tip: apply lotions first, then lock in moisture with oils.”
- Beauty Brands: “Our new body oils works best when layered over lotion.”
So, whether in expert advice or online discussions, the correct sequence remains consistent.
“Oil or Lotion First” – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search trends show that “oils or lotions first” spikes during winter and dry seasons, especially in the United States, UK, Canada, and India. This indicates that people mostly search for it when skin dryness becomes a common issue.
| Country | Popular Search | Interest Level | Trend Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | oil or lotion first | Very High | Winter skincare |
| UK | lotion or oil first | High | Cold weather |
| Canada | oil vs lotion | Medium | Moisture retention |
| India | body oil or lotion | High | Dry skin & climate |
Clearly, the topic is universal and driven by seasonal skincare needs.
Comparison Table: Oil vs Lotion
| Feature | Oil | Lotion |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Thick and greasy | Light and creamy |
| Base | Oil-based | Water-based |
| Main Function | Locks in moisture | Hydrates skin |
| Best For | Very dry skin | Normal to dry skin |
| Order to Apply | After lotion | Before oil |
FAQs
1. Should I use oil or lotions first after a shower?
Use lotion first to hydrate, then oil to lock in moisture.
2. Can I mix lotions and oils together?
You can, but layering them separately works better for absorption.
3. Is oils better than lotions?
Not always. Lotion hydrates; oil seals. They work best together.
4. Can I use oil or lotions on my face?
Yes, but choose non-comedogenic products made for facial use.
5. What if I have oily skin?
Use a light, oils-free lotions and skip heavy oils.
6. Does the order change in summer?
In hot weather, lotion alone is often enough. Use oil only on dry areas.
7. When should I apply — morning or night?
Nighttime is best, as your skin repairs while you sleep.
Conclusion
The argument over whether to apply lotions or oils first is finally settled: lotions should always be applied before oils. While oils retains the moisture, lotions provides the necessary hydration. Applying them backwards can prevent absorption and result in oily, rather than radiant, skin.
Keep in mind that lighter items are prioritised over heavier ones. Adapt your regimen to the environment and type of skin you have. Your skincare will be smoother, more effective, and more glowing if you follow this easy guideline.
You’ll know exactly what to do the next time you grab your body products: lotions first, oils second, and always have healthy skin.
