If you have dry skin, you’ve probably heard the golden rule: “Never skip moisturiser.” But what if how you moisturise is the real issue? Here’s a surprising truth: applying your moisturiser before your face oil might be doing more harm than good—especially for dry skin types.

Let’s break down why.

Understanding How Moisture Works in Your Skin

Dry skin isn’t just about a lack of water. It’s also about your skin’s inability to hold onto it.

Clinical Insight:

According to a 2016 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) is significantly higher in dry skin types. 

To tackle this, your skincare routine needs both humectants and occlusives:

• Humectants (like hyaluronic acid) attract water.
• Occlusives (like face oils) seal it in.

Using moisturiser first gives you hydration, but without sealing it the moisture can just evaporate. That’s where face oils come in.

The Moisturiser-First Mistake

When you apply moisturiser and then a face oil, here’s what happens:

• Moisturiser hydrates the skin (temporarily).
• Face oil, applied on top, can’t penetrate through the water-based formula effectively.

Result? Your skin may still feel dry or tight a few hours later.

Fix It: Reverse the Order

Apply face oil first (especially one rich in essential fatty acids like Armony’s Citrus Glow Elixir), and then follow with a lightweight moisturiser only if needed. This technique:

• Locks in hydration
• Strengthens the skin barrier
• Reduces flakiness and inflammation

Why Armony’s Face Oils Work Better for Dry Skin?

Many oils on the market are too heavy, pore-clogging, or synthetic.

At Armony, our oils are rooted in clean formulations, with ingredients that mimic your skin’s natural lipids:

• Sweet Almond Oil – Rich in vitamin E and omega-9s to deeply nourish
• Argan Oil – Non-comedogenic and deeply hydrating
• Jojoba Oil – Balances sebum production, ideal for sensitive dry skin
• Vitamin E & C – Protect from oxidative stress
• Rose Powder – Calms and softens skin naturally

Clinically aligned:

A review in Dermatitis confirms that emollients with omega fatty acids and antioxidants improve barrier function in dry skin. 

Should You Skip Moisturiser Altogether?

Not necessarily. Moisturisers with humectants (like hyaluronic acid or glycerin) are great after face oil if your skin still feels tight.

But for many dry skin users, a well-formulated oil is enough. It simplifies your routine and strengthens your skin barrier naturally.

Final Takeaway

If you’ve been layering products without seeing results, the problem might not be the products, it might be the order.

By placing face oils first, especially for dry skin, you’re locking in hydration, repairing your barrier, and finally getting the softness and glow you’ve been chasing.

Try It Yourself: Citrus Glow Elixir

A fast-absorbing, non-greasy oil for dry, sensitive skin, made with real botanicals and 0% filler oils.

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Related Reads:

• 5 Best Natural Ingredients for Dry Skin + How to Use Them
  
• How to Choose the Right Face Oil for Your Skin Type