How to Layer Your Skincare the Right Way

When we notice that our skincare routine isn’t working or isn’t producing the effects that we have expected, it’s easy to pinpoint the products themselves as the culprits. However, this isn’t always the case. I know, with so many skincare products to choose from, it can feel overwhelmingly confusing. Whether it’s a 10-step routine or a simple 3-step routine, proper layering of products is vital to achieving the healthy, glowy skin that we all strive for.

Why Does Order Matter?

Product Penetration

Thankfully, the order doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the rule of thumb is pretty simple. Skincare application must be applied from thinnest to thickest consistency. This allows the product to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin. The idea is to allow the thinner products to be absorbed and the thicker products such as moisturizer occludes the other products and reinforces their wonderful effects.

Maximizing the Benefits

Following the logic of thinnest to thickest consistency, if we apply a thicker moisturizer first before a water toner for example, we wouldn’t be able to maximize the benefits of the other products. Skincare is all about maximizing all the good ingredients so that they react well with the skin.

Prevent Pilling

If you wear makeup, and have experienced pilling or balling of your products on your face (almost like your skin coming off — it’s not, don’t worry), it’s most likely a result of improper layering of skincare products.

Layering Sequence

So, let’s get down to business. This guide will showcase an example for morning and night time routines. Routines may look a little bit different, depending on the products you use at specific times, but the rule of thumb of thinnest to thickest consistency still follows.

Morning Routine

1. Cleanser gets rid of residue from the night before and works wonders on the skin. Some dermatologists suggest that simply splashing the face in the morning with water would be more than enough for those with dry and sensitive skin.
2. Toner is also part of the cleansing process, it wipes away dirt or grime build up, and balances the skin pH level. Toners come in watery consistencies so this should go first after cleansing the face.
3. Serums are a thicker product usually packed with ingredients that help brighten and nourish the skin. This isn’t always necessary for a skincare routine, but if you want to bump up the glowiness, this could be a good option for you. Vitamin C or Niacinamide serums are common to use in the daytime as they are antioxidants and work to brighten the skin and protect it from pollutants found in the air.
4. Moisturizer is essential to occlude the previous steps in your skincare. It helps to keep your skin barrier healthy and your skin plump.
5. Sunscreen is a non-negotiable in your morning skincare routine. It protects your skin for the harmful effects of the UV rays from the sun. This normally caps off your morning routine and seals everything in.

Night Routine

1. Cleansing Oil or Balm sounds like it isn’t the thinnest consistency of product based on the golden rule of thinnest to thickest. However, this step is part of the two-step double cleansing process, in order to break down sunscreen and makeup if you wear it during the day.
2. Cleanser
3. Toner
4. Serum
5. Treatments like eye cream, acne spot treatment, or retinol are usually applied at night in order to maximize the full effects of these products. These aren’t absolutely necessary, but may be helpful if you have specific skin issues that you want to target.
6. Moisturizer would be the last step for your night routine since you don’t need sunscreen before going to bed. Some people with dry skin types might opt for a thicker cream at night to lock in all the hydration from the previous products.

Other Things to Consider

• Waiting Times are important in layering your products. With toners and serums, it is useful to wait at least 1 or 2 minutes until the products have been absorbed into the skin. When using treatments, it is essential for other products to be absorbed so that the treatment product doesn’t slide around your face. Not waiting for products to be absorbed can sometimes cause the pilling or balling effect.
• Using Too Many Products can also cause your skin to reject the products all together. When starting out with skincare, it is important to incorporate things slowly and give them time to work before adding a new product into your routine.

That’s it! When choosing products and building a routine gets too overwhelming, just remember the rule of thumb of thinnest to thickest consistency. Before purchasing products, it is always recommended to identify your skin type and skin issues to address first. Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, in fact, it should be an enjoyable daily activity!

For product recommendations and personalized skincare advice, it is best to consult a certified dermatologist.