Serum, cream, or oil: what's the difference and in what order should you apply them?
On The Wild Side
Apply serum first (thinnest texture), then cream or balm, and finally oil if needed. Golden rule: from lightest to richest, on clean skin.
Serum in the morning, cream at night, oil on top... If you're unsure about serum, cream, and oil, the logic is simple once you understand the role of each texture.
Serum: a concentrated, targeted active ingredient
Serum is the lightest and most concentrated texture. At OTWS: Anti-Blemish Serum (2x fewer blemishes in 21 days*) and Vegan Collagen Serum (smoothes and firms from the 1st application*).
Cream: protecting and moisturizing the surface
Cream limits water loss and seals in active ingredients. Smoothing Day Cream in the morning, Plumping Night Balm in the evening.
Oil: nourishing the skin barrier
The Repairing Treatment Oil excels at nourishing and strengthening the lipid barrier — ideal for dry, mature, or damaged skin.
In what order should they be applied?
- Cleanse
-
Balance
Soothing Essential Lotion if needed.
-
Serum
Lightest texture, concentrated active ingredients.
-
Cream or balm
Seals in hydration.
-
Oil
Especially at night, or a few drops in the morning on dry areas.
How to choose based on your skin type?
| Skin type | Serum | Cream / balm | Oil |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combination or oily | Anti-Blemish Serum | Light Day Cream | Optional at night |
| Dry or mature | Vegan Collagen Serum | Night Balm | Treatment Oil at night |
| Sensitive | Introduce gradually | Soothing cream | Small amount |
Frequently asked questions
Can serum and oil be used on the same night?
Yes. Serum first, let it absorb, then cream, then oil if needed.
Can oily skin use an oil?
Yes, in a small amount, only on dry areas.
Do I need to wait between each step?
30 to 60 seconds between serum and cream is sufficient.
