How to Layer Skincare – So, you’ve got all of these expensive skincare products in your routine. How do you know if they’re even being absorbed into your skin and working the way they’re supposed to? That’s where knowing how to layer skincare comes in handy. When applied in the right order, your skincare products absorb better, work more efficiently, and help you achieve your healthy skin goal.
How to Layer Skincare?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the different skincare products, and the 10 steps skincare routines, this simple guide is for you. Whether you have a 3 step or a 10 step skincare routine, this is the only guide you’ll need to start layering skincare like a pro!
1. Cleanse, Cleanse, Cleanse
The first step of every good skincare routine should always be cleansing. Cleansing prepares your skin for the next steps in your skincare routine. It removes dirt and excess oil that build up on your skin throughout the day.
Starting with a clean face ensures that the products you apply afterward can absorb more effectively and work to their full potential. When choosing a cleanser, go for one that is gentle, alcohol-free, and non-abrasive. These formulas cleanse without stripping your skin of its natural oils, helping to maintain a healthy, balanced skin barrier.
2. Start From Thinnest to Thickest
When applying skincare, the general rule is to apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency. This means watery products like toners and serums should go on first, followed by heavier products like creams and moisturizers. Make sure to wait 1 to 2 minutes between steps to let each product fully absorb into your skin, especially if the product is oily or heavy.
Starting from thinnest to thickest improves absorption and prevents thicker products from blocking ingredient absorption, otherwise known as occlusion. Occlusive products are great for locking in moisture and hydration, but they prevent active ingredients from absorbing well into the skin. Following this rule, a basic skincare routine would look something like this:
- Cleanser
- Toner
- Serum (Optional)
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen (Daytime Only)
3. Morning Vs Night Routine
A morning skincare routine could be different from a night one. Morning skin care routines should be all about prevention and protection. Since your skin will be exposed to sunlight, sunscreen is a must in your morning routine.
You should also avoid certain harsh ingredients in your morning routine to avoid increasing your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. These ingredients include Retinol, Hydroquinone, Citrus Oils, and AHAs/BHAs. Applying them in the morning increases the risk of dark spots, redness and irritation, and even premature aging, especially after being in the sun. Apply them at night instead.
Compared to the morning, it’s best to use thicker products at night to focus on repairing the damage done during the day. So, if you want to layer serums, it’s best to do it at night.
Layering skincare doesn’t need to be complicated. And it certainly doesn’t need 10 steps to be effective. Just choose the right products for your skin needs, apply it in the right order, and you’ve got yourself the perfect skincare routine. Remember, rather than the number of steps and products, what’s more important is consistency. If you stick with your routine, your skin will thank you.
Sources:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/order-of-skin-care#night-routine.
- https://www.health.com/skincare-routine-order-7507961.
- https://www.dermstore.com/blog/ingredients-to-avoid-in-skin-care/#:~:text=Citrus%20essential%20oils%E2%80%94like%20bergamot,refining%20wrinkles%20and%20dark%20spots.
- https://www.neutrogena.com/the-bar/how-long-to-wait-between-skincare-steps.
