One of the most common questions in skincare is: "In what order should I apply my products?" While it may seem overwhelming at first, understanding the correct sequence can make a world of difference in how well your skincare products work. Applying products in the right order allows each one to absorb better and deliver its full benefits, helping you get the most out of your routine.
Here’s a guide to mastering the art of layering skincare products!
Each skincare product has a unique texture, formulation, and purpose. By applying them in the right order, you give your skin the best chance to absorb each product properly. Skincare products should be layered from thinnest to thickest consistency, ensuring that lighter products can penetrate the skin before heavier products create a barrier.
Start your routine with a cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin's surface. If you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing: first, use an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and SPF, followed by a water-based cleanser to deep clean.
Why? Cleansing creates a clean base, making it easier for the following products to penetrate the skin.
Pro Tip: Avoid harsh cleansers that can strip the skin’s natural moisture barrier. A gentle, hydrating cleanser works best for most skin types.
Toners help balance the skin's pH and prep it for the next steps. They can also remove any remaining residue from cleansing and provide a boost of hydration.
Why? Think of toner as a primer. It allows your skin to better absorb the active ingredients in serums and moisturizers that follow.
Pro Tip: Avoid alcohol-based toners, as they can be drying. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or rose water for a gentle effect.
Essences are lightweight, hydrating products that help the skin better absorb serums and other treatments. While they aren’t essential for everyone, they can benefit those with dry or dehydrated skin.
Why? Essences help the skin retain moisture and improve the efficacy of products that follow.
Pro Tip: Patting the essence into your skin rather than rubbing can help maximize absorption.
An excellent choice for toner is Ginseng Essence Water, which we highly recommend for its effectiveness and quality.
Serums are concentrated treatments that target specific skin concerns, like acne, pigmentation, or fine lines. Apply serums with active ingredients, such as vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, during this step.
Why? Serums are designed to penetrate deeply into the skin, delivering potent ingredients where they’re needed most.
Pro Tip: Apply a thin layer and give the serum a few minutes to absorb before moving on. For daytime, vitamin C is a great choice; for nighttime, consider ingredients like retinol or niacinamide.
If you use spot treatments for acne or other skin concerns, apply them now. Spot treatments are typically more concentrated and need to be applied directly to affected areas.
Why? Applying spot treatments before moisturizer allows the product to work directly on the problem area without any barriers.
Pro Tip: Only apply spot treatments where needed, and avoid layering other products over these spots to allow the treatment to fully absorb.
The skin around your eyes is delicate and often requires special care. Use an eye cream to provide hydration, reduce puffiness, and minimize fine lines.
Why? Eye creams are formulated to address issues specific to the eye area without irritating this sensitive skin.
Pro Tip: Gently tap the cream around the eye area using your ring finger to avoid tugging on the skin.
Moisturizer locks in hydration and creates a barrier to protect the skin from environmental damage. It also helps seal in the active ingredients from the previous steps.
Why? Moisturizers keep the skin balanced and hydrated, which is essential for a healthy skin barrier.
Pro Tip: Choose a lightweight, gel-based moisturizer for daytime or oily skin, and a richer cream for nighttime or dry skin.
Face oils can provide an additional layer of hydration, especially for those with dry skin. They’re best used as the last moisturizing step to lock in all the products beneath them.
Why? Oils create an occlusive barrier, sealing in moisture and adding a healthy glow.
Pro Tip: Apply a few drops, warm it up in your hands, and gently press it into your skin. Avoid using oils in the morning if you have oily skin.
In the morning, sunscreen should always be the last step of your skincare routine. Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause premature aging, pigmentation, and other skin damage.
Why? Sunscreen acts as a shield against the sun, preventing damage from UV rays.
Pro Tip: Use a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30. Reapply every two hours if you’re outside or exposed to direct sunlight.
Following the right order can help maximize the effectiveness of your skincare products, making sure your skin gets the most out of every ingredient. Remember, it’s not just about how many products you use but using the right ones in the correct order that makes all the difference. Stick to a routine, be patient with results, and enjoy the process of taking care of your skin!
