How to layer your skincare products in the correct order?

If you’re applying your products in the wrong order, you can prevent your skin from reaping the full benefits. Product order does matter. Read on and find out how to layer skincare products like a pro. Remember to allow each layer to sink in for a few minutes to allow active ingredients to absorb.

Step 1: Cleanser

Cleansing is always the first key step. You need a clean, grime-free canvas for ingredients to probably absorb.  Skip cleansing wipes. Invest in a high-quality cleansing oil to remove makeup, sebum, and impurities thoroughly without stripping your skin’s natural oils. Then, follow up with a gentle cleanser to get rid of the stubborn grime that stays behind.

Step 2: Toner

Prep your skin with a hydrating toner. Apply a small amount of toner to a cotton pad and gently wipe your face with it. It helps replenish the moisture your skin barrier lost when you washed your face.  Also, it can bring your skin back to its natural acidic state, and help your skin absorb the skincare products you are about to slather on.

Step 3: Serum

Pick a potent serum containing ingredients to treat your skin concerns. It can penetrate deeply into the skin and deliver a very high concentration of active ingredients targeting specific skincare concerns.

Go for formulas with vitamin C, retinol or peptides for wrinkles and dark spots, hyaluronic acid for dryness, and salicylic acid for oily skin. Dispense a pea-sized amount of serum onto the palm of your hand. Next, rub it with fingertips to warm it up before gently massaging the product into your face and neck.

Step 4: Eye cream

Apply eye cream before you slather on face cream and SPF. It is because eye creams tend to be lighter, which cannot penetrate thicker products like hydrating creams, sunscreens or oils.

Step 5: Moisturizer/Sunscreen

Putting moisturizer and sunscreen (AM) last will seal in all your other products. Choose a light hyaluronic-based moisturizer for the morning while an anti-aging formulated night cream for the night. Let the products sink in for at least five minutes before applying makeup or adding a treatment oil for intense moisturizing benefits. 

Key takeaway

How to layer your morning skincare products?

How to layer your night-time skincare products?