You know how they say "oil and water don't mix"? Well, turns out that's true even in skincare! Water and oil are the foundation of most skincare products, and they play different roles in keeping our skin healthy and hydrated. Water-soluble ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin are lightweight and easily penetrate the skin, providing deep hydration and plumping up the skin cells. On the other hand, oil-based ingredients like Jojoba oil and Squalane create a protective barrier on the skin's surface, sealing in moisture and preventing water loss.
Traditionally, moisturisers combine water and oil-based ingredients together with the help of an emulsifier. This creates a creamy texture that we're all familiar with, but some skincare experts argue that keeping water and oil separate can actually optimise their effectiveness. When water-based and oil-based ingredients are mixed, the oils can create a barrier that makes it harder for water-based ingredients to penetrate the skin properly, reducing their efficacy. Additionally, the combination of water and oil can create an environment that's conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi, which requires the use of more preservatives to keep the product stable.
However, by layering water-based and oil-based products, you can ensure that each ingredient can work its magic to the fullest. Using a two-step approach like our Replenishing Hydra Serum followed by our Barrier Restore Nutrient Oil, you can deliver hydration deep into the skin and then lock it in with a protective oil barrier from the nutrient oil. This allows both water-based and oil-based ingredients to work together harmoniously, providing optimal benefits for your skin.
So, next time you're applying your skincare products, consider layering your water-based and oil-based products to get the absolute maximum benefits of each. It's a simple shift in your routine that can radically influence the future health of your skin.
