Dry skin: face cream or oil?

For dry skin, cream and oil do two different things: cream delivers water and oils together, while oil delivers only oils and helps retain existing moisture. For this reason, the best solution is often to use both: a few drops of oil, followed by cream; or oil on its own in the evening.

What cream does

It hydrates and nourishes. For dry to very dry skin, Nutri-Remedy by Bakel; for extremely dry skin, the Prime Regenera II balm by Valmont.

What oil does

It nourishes and protects the skin barrier. Valmont's Huile Majestueuse, Insium's Nourishing Repair Oil, or Bakel's Chrono Oil, an oil-based fluid that absorbs quickly.

How to use them together

1. Gentle cleanser.
2. Moisturizing serum, if you use one.
3. Two or three drops of oil, warmed between the hands and pressed onto the face.
4. Cream, to seal it in.

Some prefer to mix a drop of oil into the cream: that works too.

When skin is drier

In winter, with the heating on: read skin in winter. And don't forget your hands: chapped hands.

Frequently asked questions

Can face oil replace cream?

Sometimes, in the evening, on very dry skin. But during the day, it is usually better to use it with cream, which also delivers water.

Is face oil suitable for oily skin?

For some, yes, but there are lighter solutions for oily skin: see oily skin.