How long to wait between skincare steps?

Author: Maya Purdy  |  Last update: Friday, August 22, 2025

Here's how long to wait before applying each particular product.
  1. Toner: Immediately After Cleansing. If cleansing (or double-cleansing) should be the first step in your routine, let's jump to toner. ...
  2. Serum: A Few Seconds After Cleansing and Toning. ...
  3. Moisturiser: One Minute After Serum.

How long should you wait between each step of a skincare routine?

However , as a general guideline , it 's recommended to wait at least 2-3 minutes before applying the next product . This waiting period allows each product to fully absorb into the skin and penetrate the deeper layers where it can work its magic .

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.

How long to wait between moisturizer and serum?

There is no wait time required between applying your serum and moisturizer. You can even choose to mix them together in the palm of your hand before applying. (Exception: a daytime moisturizer with sunscreen shouldn't be mixed into other formulas since doing so could hinder the level of protection).

What is the 60 second rule in skincare?

To quote Roberts-Smith, “All the 60 second rule is: washing your face — with your fingers — for 60 seconds. That's it!” Supposedly, most people only wash their face for about 15 seconds. The 60 second rule is a skincare hack that prolongs cleansing so you're sure to wash every single part of your face.

Find the 1st Step for Your Skincare Routine | Importance of Skincare Steps & Rules of Layering

What is the 80 20 rule skin care?

Skincare regimens are vital to your skin health. In office treatments make up 20% of skin health but the other 80% makes up for how you care for your skin at home. Finding and creating a regimen that works with your skin is a process that takes time, but we are here to help! Check out our 7 pro tips for skin success!

What is the Japanese 60 second skin ritual?

"Cleansing for 60 seconds, especially using an oil cleanser or balm, helps to soften the skin, clean out pores, and clean off all the pollution, makeup, and sweat from the day," says Fairchild.

How long should I wait between retinol and moisturizer?

After applying your retinol product, it's best to wait roughly 10 minutes before moving on to the next step in your routine.

How long after applying hyaluronic acid can I apply moisturizer?

Wait for the serum to absorb: Give the serum some time to absorb into your skin. This usually takes a few minutes. You'll know the serum has been absorbed when your skin feels soft and smooth. Apply moisturizer: Once the serum has been absorbed, apply your moisturizer on top of it.

How long should you wait between toner and moisturizer?

“Around 30 secs to 1 min is a sufficient gap between layers in the skincare step. The exception is post serum / spot treatment and retinol. You should allow 3 – 5 mins before applying the next layer to allow surface skin penetration. Apply sunscreen only after there are no traces of moisturiser on the face.

Can you layer too much skincare?

Chances are, if your skin is becoming oilier, drier, sensitive, red, flaky, or even painful, you might be overdoing it. The products you use may include extremely effective active ingredients, but mixing and matching them incorrectly can cause negative results like irritation and inflammation.

What is the rule of 7 skincare?

In a nutshell, it involves applying up to seven layers of toner in between your cleanser and moisturiser - yes 7 layers! In Korea, toners are commonly referred to as 'skins', so the 7 skin method actually means 7 toner method. It might sound a bit strange to add a product to your skin upto 7 times.

How do Japanese wash their face?

I did some further research and came across the concept of the 4-2-4 method; it's a system where you start with an oil and you massage your skin for four minutes, then you layer your skin with a cream cleanser on top and you massage for two minutes to emulsify the oil, and then you rinse for four minutes—which for some ...

How long to wait between hyaluronic acid and niacinamide?

Hyaluronic acid serums are usually lightweight and absorb quickly, so you don't need to wait longer than a minute or two to apply a niacinamide cream. If both products are thick or sticky, wait until the skin absorbs the first layer to avoid mixing and diluting the products.

How many minutes gap between moisturizer and sunscreen?

Can You Mix Sunscreen With Moisturiser? Long answer short, no. You shouldn't mix the two formulations since they may dilute the efficacy of the other. As a rule of thumb, skincare products should be layered separately with a time gap of 15–20 minutes to allow each product to be absorbed fully into the skin.

How long should I wait between toner and serum?

Serum: A Few Seconds After Cleansing and Toning

To get the most out of a hydrating serum, it's generally recommended to cleanse and tone, then wait a few seconds before applying your serum. Because serums tend to have a lighter consistency than moisturisers, it's a good idea to use them first.

What not to mix with hyaluronic acid?

However, there are certain ingredients that should not be mixed with hyaluronic acid:
  • AHAs and BHAs: AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) are chemical exfoliants that can help improve skin texture and unclog pores. ...
  • Benzoyl Peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide is a common ingredient found in acne treatments.

Do you put retinol or hyaluronic acid first?

HA provides hydration, which can counteract the potential drying effects of retinoids. Since Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a water-based serum, it would be applied first and then after, you would apply retinoids, such as Retinol 1% in Squalane, as it's an anhydrous formulation.

How long should you wait between serum and moisturizer?

Serum and Moisturizer: 1 minute

Goldenberg's go-to recommendation for timing between serums and moisturizers is about one minute. This wait has the same reasoning: Sixty seconds — give or take — gives each product a moment to delve into your pores.

What is the sandwich method of retinol?

In short, the retinol sandwiching technique is as follows:

Apply a layer of moisturiser to damp skin. Allow this to dry completely. Apply your retinol. After giving retinol time to absorb, finish your skincare routine with a second layer of moisturiser.

Is it better to put retinol on damp or dry skin?

STEP 4: WAIT UNTIL YOUR SKIN IS DRY

It's essential to make sure to wait until your skin is dehydrated before moving on to applying your retinol. If you use it on wet or even damp skin, there is a greater likelihood that you'll experience irritation. That is because cleansing the skin opens up the pores.

Can I slug over retinol?

Finally, be cautious when slugging over retinol and exfoliating acids, this can increase the risk of irritation by enhancing their penetration into the skin.

What is the Japanese secret for wrinkles?

This humble elixir is easily crafted by soaking rice in water and utilizing the resulting liquid as a toner. Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, rice water toner tightens pores, brightens the complexion, and diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

How many seconds to wash your face?

The ideal duration for washing your face is around 60 seconds. This allows enough time to effectively remove dirt, oil, and makeup without over-drying your skin. Use a gentle cleanser suited for your skin type and warm water to open up your pores.

Why do Japanese have such good skin?

Japanese cuisine emphasizes seasonal, fresh ingredients that provide essential nutrients for skin health. These foods reduce inflammation, hydrate the skin, and promote heart health, keeping the body and skin youthful.

Previous article
What is a soft perm?
Next article
How is Gen Z changing the face of beauty?