How Long to Wait Between Skincare Steps – When it comes to skincare, besides the products you use, how and when you apply them also matters. Even if you already have all the right products for your skin, if you apply them in the wrong order, then they can be ineffective. One commonly overlooked detail is how long you should wait between each step in your routine. Should you let your serum dry before applying moisturizer? Can you apply sunscreen right after?
While there’s no strict one-size-fits-all timing rule, giving your skin enough time to absorb certain products can help maximize their effectiveness, prevent product pilling, and minimize irritation. Follow this guide to make sure your skincare is working effectively to help you get that dream glowing skin.
Do You Really Need to Wait Between Every Product?
Not always. Rather than counting how long you should wait between each skincare step, it’s more important to apply skincare in the correct order. The general rule is to apply products from the lightest, water-based ones first, then gradually move to the heavier, oil-based products.
Your hydrating toner and serum should go before moisturizer, and moisturizer should go before sunscreen. Wait for each product to absorb before putting on the next layer.
When Should You Apply Toner?
After cleansing, you don’t need to wait before starting to apply toner. The purpose of a toner is generally to help remove any impurities left behind after cleansing. Always make sure you cleanse your face before starting your skincare routine. This gives a blank canvas for skincare products to absorb better.
How Long to Wait Before Applying Serums?
After using toner, if you decide to use essences or serums, then you can apply it immediately after toning. In fact, for certain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, it’s recommended that you apply it to damp skin for it to work its best.
However, ingredients like retinol and vitamin c have to be applied to clean, dry skin. If applied to damp skin, retinol will penetrate deeper, which can cause irritation. Vitamin C can lose its potency and effectiveness when exposed to moisture, so it’s better to apply it to dry skin.
The general rule is to use just enough serum to cover your face and neck, but not too much that it takes too long to absorb.
How Long to Wait Between Serum and Moisturizer?
Generally, one minute is enough for your serum to absorb into your skin. Don’t worry if your skin is not completely dry yet after the serum. Dermatologists say that applying moisturizer on damp skin can help seal in moisture. Pick a lightweight moisturizer so it doesn’t feel too heavy on your skin, especially if you have oily skin.
When to Apply Sunscreen?
Sunscreen should always be the last step in your skincare routine. It should sit on top of the other layers to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. You don’t need to wait long before applying sunscreen.
After your moisturizer absorbs, you can start applying it immediately. However, if you’re using a chemical sunscreen, then ideally you should wait 15-20 minutes before leaving the house after application. Chemical sunscreens need time to absorb into your skin for it to be effective.
Taking a few extra seconds between skincare steps can make a big difference in how your products perform. While you don’t need to set a timer for every layer, giving each product a moment to absorb, especially serums and sunscreen, can help prevent irritation, improve absorption, and avoid that annoying pilling effect.
Just remember to apply from thinnest to thickest texture, and listen to your skin. If something feels tacky or too wet, give it a bit more time. With a little patience, your routine can feel smoother, and your skin will thank you.
Sources:
- https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/how-long-should-you-wait-in-between-skin-care-steps?srsltid=AfmBOopE_lYkMGl77u-etVeall-wSvoLPK49XHdC-fs0RDikx9MtMbQJ&utm_source=chatgpt.com.
- https://www.kiehls.com/skincare-advice/how-long-between-skincare-steps.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqGP2n8wKgOVbCG8k7cELfCzZZplCQlkWqlIvv_vVjYWZNNTZx7&utm_source=chatgpt.com.
- https://www.texashealth.org/areyouawellbeing/Health-and-Well-Being/What-is-the-Difference-Between-Chemical-and-Mineral-Sunscreen#:~:text=Chemical%20sunscreens%20need%20time%20to,packaging%20says%20it’s%20broad%20spectrum.
