Everyone has a basic skincare routine that they follow but more is needed, To achieve the perfect skin it is important to know ”How to layer skincare” properly for effective results. Having imperfect skin is normal, but it can affect our confidence and self-esteem, therefore it is important to know how to layer your skincare in the right order to maximize the effectiveness of your skincare routine. skincare products contain active ingredients and if not applied in the correct order can lead to damaged skin barrier or other skin issues.
When layering your skincare care products always remember to go from thinnest to thickest consistency, This means that your liquid-based formula products should go on first, followed by your heavy-textured products. To make things easier, Here’s the correct order you should use when layering your skincare products.
Step 1: Cleanser
cleansing is the first step in any skincare routine whether it is day or night, Cleansing eliminates impurities such as dirt, excess oil, and environmental pollutants accumulated on the skin’s surface throughout the day. Different skin types require different cleansers to ensure effective absorption of skincare products, choose a cleanser tailored to your skin type, whether it’s oily, dry, sensitive, or a combination.
Step 2: Toner
Toners can be an optional step in your skincare routine but they can take your skincare game to another level. when using toners after cleansing you prepare your skin for other products. Ingredients in toners such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, provide an extra layer of moisture to the skin. Toners restore the skin’s pH balance after cleansing. This maintains a healthy skin barrier and helps products work effectively.
Step 3: Applying a Spot Treatment
This step is for those having skin issues such as acne, scars, eczema, or other skin problems. Applying a spot treatment to specific areas of skin where you need improvement, by doing so you will make your skin clearer while enjoying the benefits of other skincare products. Make sure that you read the ingredients in your spot treatment because not all skincare ingredients can be mixed
Step 4: Serums
Serums are a crucial part of any skincare routine. They work quickly and offer targeted benefits for specific skin concerns. With a high concentration of active ingredients, serums are ideal for addressing issues such as fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and dryness.
Serums are lightweight and absorb quickly, allowing the active substances to enter the skin fast and thoroughly, without leaving an oily or heavy residue. They are ideal to use before intense moisturizers.
Serums containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, salicylic acid, alpha arbutin, and peptides are widely available in the market. However, it’s important to select the right one based on your skin’s needs.
Step 5: Eye creams
Using eye cream is optional, but it can be effective for reducing dark circles. Eye creams are designed to target issues around the eyes, such as wrinkles, puffiness, fine lines, and dark circles. the formulation of eye cream often includes ingredients such as caffeine, peptides, and antioxidants, known for their revitalizing and rejuvenating properties.
eye cream can also be added as an extra step for anti-aging as it prevents the formation of fine lines around the eyes, combating the signs of aging. Layering eye cream after serums and before heavier moisturizers ensures that the delicate eye area receives specialized care without compromising the benefits of the overall skincare routine.
Step 6: Moisturizer
A moisturizer becomes essential as we work our way through the layers of a well-organized skincare regimen. This crucial phase for a durable and healthy complexion includes hydrating the skin, sealing in the layers that came before it, and strengthening the skin’s natural barrier.
To lock in the benefits of the previously used skincare products, it is always recommended to use moisturizer. People with dry skin should prefer moisturizers with ingredients such as ceramide or glycerine which provide extra nourishment and protect the skin barrier while people with oily or acne-prone skin should opt for a gel-based moisturizer
Step 7: Sunscreen
In your daytime skincare routine, never forget to apply sunscreen, even if you are staying indoors. Sunscreen acts as a barrier to block UVA and UVB radiation. Sunburns are caused by UVB radiation, but UVA rays are linked to early aging. A broad-spectrum sunscreen provides complete protection by successfully blocking both. For best protection, it is recommended to apply sunscreen generously and evenly on all exposed skin.
It is important to reapply it frequently, especially after sweating, swimming, or spending long periods outdoors. Applying it at least 15 minutes before sun exposure is advised as it enables the product to fully penetrate the skin.
