The Correct Order of Skincare Products

January 11, 2024

Mastering the Art of Skincare Product Layering

Achieving healthy and radiant skin involves more than just slathering on various skincare products. The order in which you apply your products plays a crucial role in their effectiveness. Whether you have a basic three-step routine or an extensive ten-step regimen, understanding the correct order for product application is key to targeting specific skin concerns and optimizing their benefits.

Morning Skincare Routine

In the morning, our skincare focus is on prevention and protection from external factors. A basic three-step routine includes cleansing, using an antioxidant-rich serum, and moisturizing. It is advisable to replace toner with an antioxidant serum for enhanced protection. Additionally, sunscreen is a vital step in any morning routine to shield the skin from UV damage and micro-ageing.

Night Skincare Routine

Night-time skincare routines aim to repair and rejuvenate the skin. It starts with makeup removal using a dedicated remover or micellar water, followed by a gentle foaming cleanser to eliminate impurities. An exfoliating toner can be included to remove dead skin cells, promoting a more even texture. Anti-ageing treatments like retinoids and targeted creams take centre stage during the night, followed by a hydrating serum, eye cream, and a nourishing night cream or moisturizer.

The Importance of Order

Applying skincare products in the correct order allows them to be absorbed efficiently, maximizing their benefits. Thinner, water-based products should be applied before thicker, oil-based ones. For instance, applying moisturizer before toner can strip away moisture and leave the skin feeling dry. Similarly, serums should precede moisturizers to ensure their active ingredients penetrate deeply. We'll explore the consequences of applying SPF before moisturizer, moisturizer before toner, skipping makeup removal, applying serum after moisturizer, using eye cream after moisturizer, and skipping moisturizer after exfoliation.

Side Effects of Applying Products in the Wrong Order

The order in which you apply skincare products is crucial for maximizing their benefits and addressing specific skin concerns. Applying products in the wrong sequence can lead to undesirable outcomes and reduce their effectiveness. Let’s highlight the potential side effects of applying SPF before moisturizer, moisturizer before toner, skipping makeup removal, applying serum after moisturizer, using eye cream after moisturizer, and skipping moisturizer after exfoliation.

SPF before moisturizer

Dilutes the efficacy of the sunscreen.
Alters the way UV rays interact with the skin.
Reduces the overall effectiveness of the sunscreen.

Moisturizer before toner

Toners remove impurities and residue left after cleansing.
Applying moisturizer before toner can strip away the moisturizer.
Leaves the skin feeling dull and dry.

Cleanser before makeup-remover

Makeup remover effectively removes cosmetic products, impurities, and dirt.
Gentle face wash or cleanser alone may not effectively remove makeup.
Rubbing too hard during cleansing can result in dryness.

Serum after moisturizer

Serums contain active ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin.
Moisturizer acts as a layer to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Applying moisturizer before serum dilutes the efficiency of the serum.

Eye cream after moisturizer

Eye creams are lighter and thinner than moisturizers.
Applying eye cream after moisturizer hinders its effectiveness.
Moisturizer blocks the eye cream to penetrate and address specific concerns.

Skipping moisturizer after exfoliation

Exfoliation may strip away moisture from the skin.
Skipping moisturizer exacerbates dryness.
Skin may peel, become red, and inflamed due to extreme dryness.

Understanding the correct order of skincare product application is essential for achieving optimal results and addressing specific skin concerns. By following a precise skincare routine order, you can ensure that each product is absorbed effectively and that their benefits are fully realized. From morning to night routines, taking care to layer products correctly can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your skin. Embrace the power of sequence, avoid common mistakes, and unlock the true potential of your skincare routine for radiant and glowing skin.