The order of application should start with cleanser and toner, followed by serums and moisturizers from lightest to thickest texture. Antioxidant serums, like vitamin C, should be applied first to protect the skin against environmental damage.
The more lightweight the ingredient is, the more readily it gets absorbed into the skin layer. Thus, when you want to use several ingredients simultaneously, these must be layered according to their consistency. The lightest one with the thinnest consistency should be used first, which are usually face serums.
In contrast to rubbing in your skincare products, patting is supposedly more gentle and it helps skin care products penetrate the skin better.
A general rule of thumb is to layer 2-3 serums. This ensures skin doesn't become overwhelmed and gives each formula the space to absorb properly. However – as mentioned above, all skin is unique. Some skin concerns could benefit from up to 5 serums, if heightened moisture, protection and firming for example is needed.
It is suggested to apply hyaluronic first on clean, damp skin, followed by retinol for dry skin. The moisturising hyaluronic acid will create a barrier and reduce irritation. The correct order of these two products depends significantly on your skin type and the product formulation you are using.
“Hyaluronic acid plays well with most ingredients, while caution must be taken when using retinol in combination with alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, and some types of vitamin C.” Linkner echoes the tip about avoiding vitamin C.
When used together, always go with applying hyaluronic acid first, followed by Niacinamide. By following this, you would be able to attract plenty of hydration first. After that, apply Niacinamide to help regulate sebum production and help with the minimization of pores.
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.
To layer vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serums, always apply vitamin C first to cleansed, dry skin. Be sure to leave time for your vitamin C to sink in, then follow up with your hyaluronic acid.
Skin brightening, hydrating and collagen boosting, a Vitamin C serum sits firmly in the 'best for AM use' category. This is because Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants, which help to mitigate the free radical damage – and subsequent signs of photo-ageing – triggered by UV radiation.
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.
If you're applying them together, you should apply Vitamin C first, followed by hyaluronic acid or niacinamide. Don't use it with AHAs, BHAs, and retinol at once. You can use it in low concentrations of AHA and BHA in your routine on alternate nights – Vitamin C one night and retinol the other.
As such, a serum should always be applied before a moisturizer, as this maximizes the contact it has with the skin, helping to achieve the desired effect. The moisturizer then works to lock those ingredients in and provide additional benefits.
The Kobido technique
Rhythmic tapping enhances microcirculation, boosts collagen production, and improves skin elasticity with a glowing complexion. Smoothing motions, using long, fluid strokes, help drain toxins accumulated in the skin tissue while relaxing the facial muscles.
Want to know one of the easiest Korean beauty secrets for getting glass skin? Start tapping your face and learn the right way of applying skincare products. Tapping is a facial relaxation technique that helps increase blood circulation and enhance lymph flow to prevent premature skin ageing.