We all know that having a solid skincare routine is the key to a healthy and radiant complexion. But did you know that the order in which you apply your products can make a big difference in their effectiveness? Yep, it's time to level up your skincare game by mastering the art of layering. In this post, we'll walk you through the steps to layer your skincare like a pro, so you can achieve that coveted glow with ease.
Why Layering Matters
An effective skincare routine is based on having the right products, using them at the right time, and applying them in the right order. By layering your skincare correctly, you allow each product to penetrate your skin effectively and your products will work together in perfect harmony, leaving you one step closer to your skin goals.
Guidelines for Skincare Layering
STEP 1: CLEANSE
Start your skincare routine off right by giving your face a full cleanse, AM and PM! This helps get rid of all the dirt, excess oil, and makeup residue, creating a clean canvas for your other skincare products to properly absorb.
PRO TIP: So, picture this: You've got makeup, sunscreen, and oil sitting on your skin. If you were to use just one cleanser, it has to remove makeup, sunscreen, built-up grime and THEN actually cleanse the skin… In one go?! Enter: double cleansing!
Double cleansing is a two-step process that involves using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser. The idea behind it is simple—oil attracts oil! The oil-based cleanser helps break down makeup, sunscreen and other oil-based impurities, while the water-based cleanser is actually able to cleanse the skin (once makeup and SPF products have been removed) to get rid of leftover dirt, sebum and sweat! Double cleansing ensures that your skin is properly cleansed and helps to reduce any congestion and blemishes caused by leftover makeup or SPF residue.
STEP 2: EXFOLIATING TONER
Now that your canvas is clean, it's time to layer! Begin with a lightweight exfoliating toner like the Gentle Resurfacing Liquid. Exfoliating toners contain gentle chemical exfoliants like AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) or BHA (beta hydroxy acid) that work to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. They also enhance the efficacy of your other skincare products by allowing them to penetrate more deeply.
PRO TIP: We don’t recommend using an exfoliating toner more than x3 a week, and never in the same routine as a retinoid. Using too many actives in one routine can break down your skin barrier. If you’re using a retinoid in your PM routine, skip this step!
STEP 3: ESSENCE/TONER (OPTIONAL)
In our view, essences are optional and aren’t a ‘must-have’ in your routine. But, if you do use them, apply them after your exfoliating toner. These watery formulas are good for priming your skin, hydrating, and balancing the pH levels. Think of them as the pre-game warm-up for your skin before bringing in the heavy hitters.
STEP 4: TARGETED TREATMENTS
Next up, it's time to tackle those specific skincare concerns. Whether it's acne, hyperpigmentation, or signs of aging, this is the step where you introduce targeted treatments.
Serums or treatments with ingredients like Niacinamide, Retinol, or Hyaluronic Acid work wonders here. These concentrated powerhouses go straight to work, addressing your unique skin needs head-on!
This is where your layering knowledge really comes into play. As a general rule, all you need to remember is to start with the products which have the thinnest consistency and layer up to the thickest/heaviest formulas. Thinner products like serums won’t be able to penetrate thicker products, so applying them in this order will ensure your skin gets the benefits from each individual product!
STEP 5: MOISTURISE + OIL
Following your targeted treatments, apply your moisturiser. Moisturisers help to lock in moisture, maintain hydration levels, and create a protective barrier on the skin. Look for ingredients like Ceramides, Fatty Acids and Peptides to help maintain skin health.
PRO TIP: Using a facial oil is a game-changer when it comes to nourishing and hydrating your skin. They help to replenish and lock in moisture, strengthen the skin's natural barrier, and feed the skin essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. They are also completely customisable - you can use anywhere between 1 and 5 drops depending on how much nourishment your skin needs.
If you use a Facial Oil, it is important to apply it after your moisturiser (but before your SPF!). Oils have larger molecules than many of the water-based ingredients you find in a moisturiser, so it’s important to apply it afterwards. Otherwise, the water-based ingredients in your moisturiser won’t be able to penetrate the skin!
STEP 8: EYE CREAM
Don't forget about your delicate eye area! Dab on a small amount of eye cream or gel using your ring finger (it's the gentlest). This step helps to reduce puffiness, brighten any pesky dark circles, and smooth away fine lines.
STEP 9: SPF
No skincare routine is complete without sun protection. Finish off your morning routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This crucial step shields your skin from harmful UV rays, minimizes the risk of sun damage, and prevents premature aging.
Additional Tips for Effective Layering
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You don’t need to wait too long between each step. You only need to give each product a few moments to absorb before applying the next one.
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Applying products to damp skin can help improve their absorption. The only exception is retinoids. DON’T apply your retinoids to damp skin as this can lead to irritation!
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Use any Exfoliating products on alternate nights to any Retinoids you may be using to avoid risking irritation.
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When layering oils, it is recommended to apply them as the last step, as they help seal in moisture and prevent water loss.
Congratulations, you're now a skincare layering pro! By following these simple steps, you can optimize your skincare routine and achieve the results you deserve. Remember, these are only guidelines, not set-in-stone rules! Skincare is a personal journey, so feel free to experiment and find the perfect combination of products that work for you.
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