Do I moisturize or exfoliate first?

Author: Dr. Garrison Bartell  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 16, 2025

By first removing dirt, sweat, and makeup, you create a clean canvas for exfoliation. This allows the scrub to effectively target dead skin cells without being hindered by surface debris. Exfoliating then removes these dead cells, revealing fresh skin beneath and prepping it for moisturizer, oil, or serum.

What is the correct order of skin care?

As a general rule, your skincare routine should follow this order: cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and lastly, eye cream. Some people also double cleanse, starting with an oil based cleanser.

Should I apply moisturizer after exfoliating?

Follow with moisturizer.

Exfoliating can be drying to the skin. Apply moisturizer immediately after exfoliating to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

What is the correct order to clean your face?

The Right Order to Wash Your Face
  1. Step 1: Cleanse the skin. ...
  2. Step 2: Use a toner. ...
  3. Step 3: Don't forget your eyes. ...
  4. Step 4: Apply a serum or treatment. ...
  5. Step 5: Moisturize! ...
  6. Step 6: Prime your skin for makeup. ...
  7. 8 Benefits of Daily Lymphatic Drainage Massage for Your Face. ...
  8. 7 Skincare Rules You Should Never Break.

What step is exfoliation in skincare?

Myth: You have to exfoliate before toning, else it's ineffective. Fact: Cleanse, tone, then apply any AHA or BHA exfoliant, regardless of texture (gel, cream, lotion). Follow with any treatments in your routine as they're designed to work best over exfoliated skin.

Dry Skin? Don’t Buy A Moisturizer (Here’s The ACTUAL Science)

What is the correct order of cleaning?

Following a systematic order for cleaning your house can make the task more manageable and ensure a thorough job. By starting with decluttering and moving through dusting, disinfecting, vacuuming, mopping, and specific room cleaning, you create a clean and organized living space.

Do you put toner or moisturizer first?

You should use the toner immediately after cleansing and before applying other serums, moisturizers, or skin oil. Also, do not skip your morning toner routine to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

What is double cleansing?

“Double cleansing means cleansing your face twice, first with an oil-based product and then followed by a water-based cleanser,” explains Dr. Wu. The first step of using an oil-based cleanser is helpful when it comes to removing waterproof makeup and sunscreen.

What is the perfect skincare routine?

Read on for the core products to include and which ones will suit your skin type.
  1. Step 1: Cleanser. Consider your face cleanser the most important step in your skin care routine. ...
  2. Step 2: Toner. Have you ever wondered what face toner does? ...
  3. Step 3: Serum. ...
  4. Step 4: Moisturizer. ...
  5. Step 5: Eye Cream.

Should you exfoliate or moisturize first?

By first removing dirt, sweat, and makeup, you create a clean canvas for exfoliation. This allows the scrub to effectively target dead skin cells without being hindered by surface debris. Exfoliating then removes these dead cells, revealing fresh skin beneath and prepping it for moisturizer, oil, or serum.

What is the black stuff when I rub my skin?

The “black stuff” when you rub your skin is nothing but dead cells, dirt and surface grime. It comes off due to friction caused by rubbing your skin.

Is vaseline a moisturizer?

Vaseline is an occlusive moisturizer, meaning that it seals moisture into the skin. To boost moisturization, people should apply the product to slightly damp skin. People can use Vaseline alone or in combination with other moisturizers and skin care products.

What is the 4 2 4 rule in skincare?

The 4-2-4 rule is a detailed cleansing routine that involves a four-minute oil massage, a two-minute cleanse with a water-based cleanser and a four-minute rinse with warm and cold water. Read ahead to know about the Japanese double cleanse routine, and what experts have to say about it.

Do you use hyaluronic acid before or after exfoliating?

The general rule of thumb is to apply the thinnest consistency products first and work up to thicker textures. For those who need the exfoliating benefits of salicylic acid daily, cleanse with SA Smoothing Cleanser with Ceramides, then follow with Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum to enhance hydration.

What is the best night moisturizer?

Our top pick for the best night cream is Kiehl's Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream, as it's great for all skin types and provides long-lasting hydration. Another fantastic option is La Roche-Posay's Double Repair Moisturizer, which leaves the skin feeling nourished, soft, and supple—all for under $25.

How to get glass skin?

Here are a few clear skin tips to help you on your journey toward healthy-looking glass skin.
  1. Double cleanse. ...
  2. Use an exfoliator. ...
  3. Apply a hydrating serum. ...
  4. Reach for a sheet mask. ...
  5. Layer on a lightweight moisturizer. ...
  6. Always finish with sunscreen.

Is toner necessary?

Is toner necessary? Toner is not an essential part of your skincare regime but something of an extra boost that can enhance and enrich your routine. For many skincare enthusiasts, it's a must!

Is micellar water double cleansing?

Yes, you can use micellar water for double cleansing. Micellar water is a no-rinse cleanser that uses micelles, which act like a magnet to gently lift dirt and makeup off skin.

What is the right order for skincare?

The order in which you apply products affects how well they work on your skin. In general—for both morning and evening routines—you'll want to apply products from lightest to heaviest after cleansing. And no matter the product, always read and follow the instructions for use.

Is micellar water a toner?

Micellar water lifts light makeup, oil, and impurities from skin with the swipe of a cotton pad. A versatile multi-tasker, it can be used as a cleanser, light makeup remover and toner. It combines gentle cleansing care with skin-balancing and hydrating benefits.

What is the best face moisturizer?

Some of the best brands include:
  • CeraVe: Known for their gentle, dermatologist recommended moisturizers.
  • La Roche-Posay: Offers a wide range of affordable skincare products, including non-comedogenic moisturizers.
  • Kiehl's: Known for their effective, high end skincare products.

What is the hardest room to clean?

The kitchen is the home's heart for so many people. Unfortunately, it is also one of the hardest rooms to keep clean. With all those surfaces, appliances, and utensils, it's not surprising that the kitchen often takes the longest to tidy.

What are the 5 basic cleaning steps in order?

What are the Six Stages of Cleaning?
  1. Pre-clean.
  2. Main clean.
  3. Rinse.
  4. Disinfection.
  5. Final Rinse.
  6. Drying.

Should you mop or vacuum first?

Many professional cleaners suggest vacuuming first before mopping. Especially if your interior floor is hard surfaces, vacuuming will make it easier for you to sweep and mop later. Some would instead follow the process of dusting, sweeping, and vacuuming first before cleaning.

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