Following a skincare routine can feel like a maze, and it’s easy to fall into major pitfalls along the way. One common mistake is the simultaneous use of sunscreen and face oil. While not completely wrong, experts advise caution when combining these two skincare staples. They can inadvertently sabotage each other’s benefits. Sunscreen stands as your shield against UV damage, while face oil offers hydration and addresses various skin concerns. However, the oily texture of face oil can trigger sunscreen pilling, compromising its protective barrier.

Before you find out how to use sunscreen and face oil, you should be aware of the advantages of both products to make a better decision. So, without further ado, let’s find it out.

Why do you need face oil?

By providing deep hydration, nourishing nutrients, and sealing in moisture, face oil helps prevent dehydration and keeps your skin supple and plump. Rich in nourishing fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants, face oil helps replenish the skin’s lipid barrier and protect against environmental stressors such as pollution and UV damage. Facial oil also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe irritation and redness while promoting overall skin health.

Why do you need sunscreen?

Not everyone understands the importance of sunscreen, but it is the most crucial step in a skincare routine. A sunscreen with a broad spectrum will protect against both UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and skin cancer, and UVA rays are responsible for skin cancer as well as skin ageing. Sunscreen forms a protective layer on your skin’s surface and prevents DNA damage and collagen breakdown. Moreover, consistent use of sun protection helps maintain an even skin tone by minimising the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure. What’s more? It can also improve the skin’s elasticity and suppleness.

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Is it correct to use both sunscreen and face oil?

The answer is not direct, as it may or may not cause problems. However, it has been observed that using sunscreen and face oil together can be problematic due to potential interference between the two products. Dermatologist Dr Rinky Kapoor explains, “Sunscreen is designed to form a protective barrier against UV rays, but since facial oil and sunscreen don’t mix well, it can lead to pilling, rendering the sunscreen less effective. Additionally, the oily texture of face oil may exacerbate the appearance of oiliness on the skin.”

How to use sunscreen and face oil together?

If you still want to use these skincare products together, you should know the right way to apply them to your skin. Here’s how to use them:

• Start by cleaning your face to remove dirt, oil, and impurities.
• Follow up with a toner to prepare your skin for better absorption of other skincare products.
• Now, if you use a serum in your routine, apply it before face oil or sunscreen.
• Once the serum is absorbed, take a few drops of face oil, warm it between your palms, and apply it to your face. Don’t forget the areas prone to dryness.
• After applying face oil, take ample amount of sunscreen on your fingertips and apply it evenly across your face and neck. Be sure to cover all exposed areas, including the ears and the back of the neck.
• If you wear makeup, you can proceed with your makeup routine after applying sunscreen and face oil. Just ensure that your sunscreen is fully absorbed before applying any makeup products.

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To avoid the potential interference between sunscreen and face oil, it is advised to use face oil as a moisturiser. Applying face oil before sunscreen allows the oil to penetrate deep into the skin and provide intense hydration without compromising the benefits of sunscreen.