Here’s How To Layer Your Skincare Products

We know that there are a bunch of skincare tips out there that leave you more confused than ever – and we’re here to help you navigate and make sense of all that information. You already know you need to apply serum, moisturizers, sunscreens, oil... and more – but in what order?

Below, we break down the correct order to apply your skincare products, steps that are most important and HOW to apply said products. So, let’s get started.

So, a good thumb of the rule to follow is that light, watery products come before heavier, creamy products. But of course, there are exceptions to this rule too.

Step 1: Cleanser 

This is a CRUCIAL step. You need to rid your face of dirt, grime and impurities before you can apply anything. To absorb products well, your skin needs to be squeaky clean. Skip the makeup wipes and wash your face with an oil-based cleanser instead, as oil dissolves oil. This will also remove any makeup or products from before. Then, follow it up with a water-based cleanser. Your skin will thank you for it!

Pro tip: If you want to relax with a sheet mask, now is the time. Apply it onto clean skin and then pat the excess serum in before continuing with our routine.

Step 2: Essence 

An essence is a water-based product that gives your skin some yummy active ingredients to absorb. This step preps your skin for better absorption of products you will use later. It helps restore moisture to the skin cells. A good essence should be lightweight and absorb quickly, leaving your skin plump and hydrated. 

Pro tip: Toners and essence usually have similar consistencies, so if you have a trusted toner that works for your skin, you can use it instead of an essence.

Step 3: Serum 

Serums are essentially power-packed products, full of concentrated nutrients and hydrating ingredients that are essential for skin health. A serum is usually slightly heavier than an essence. It penetrates deep into the skin, giving it a healthy dose of nourishment.

Pro tip: A vitamin C serum is a good bet for all skin types as it brightens, fades dark spots and just adds to the overall health of the skin. If you have dry skin, look for hyaluronic acid serums that keep the skin plump and hydrated.

Step 4: Eye Cream 

Eye creams are usually lighter than moisturizers, so they come one step before. The skin under the eyes is delicate and fragile, and so rubbing and tugging does a lot of damage (we all do it!). Look for an eye cream that hydrates, soothes and nourishes the under-eye area. 

Pro tip: Pop your eye cream in the fridge 5 minutes before application. This will help with fluid retention and soothe the under-eye area, reducing puffiness.

Step 5: Spot Treatment 

Now that your skin is all prepped up, it is time to spot treat. Ideally, you should apply spot treatments at night, as this is when the skin works hardest to repair itself. Spot treatment should always come before moisturizer, so it has one less layer of product to penetrate.

Pro tip: Tap your spot treatment in properly so that when you apply moisturizer, it doesn’t slide around. Make sure that the active ingredient doesn’t interact with your serum – for example, if you are using a vitamin C serum, don’t use a retinol-based spot treatment product to avoid sensitivity and irritation.

Step 6: Moisturizer 

ALL skin types need a moisturizer – even if it is oily! This is the MVP that keeps your skin barrier healthy and happy. A moisturizer infuses hydration into your topmost skin layer while trapping all the products you used before!

Pro tip: Apply your moisturizer and sneak in a little massage to boost blood circulation.

Step 7: Sunscreen 

Now that all the goodness has been sealed in, the final step is sunscreen. Sunscreen is the barrier against sun damage. It protects your skin against UVA and UVB rays that can cause skin cancer. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen all over your face and neck and wait at least 20 minutes before you step out.

Pro tip: Use an SPF that is 30+++ or higher, and make sure it says broad-spectrum on the package for maximum protection.

A Quick Round Up of your AM and PM Skincare Routine 

Now go on ahead and ace your skincare routine like a pro!