It's best to apply face serum first, as it can penetrate the skin more deeply and deliver active ingredients. Wait a minute or so after applying the serum to let it absorb before applying moisturizer on top. Note that you should always refer to the label to properly use the product.
You should always use a facial serum before moisturizer. Serums are lightweight and packed with concentrated active ingredients that penetrate deep into the skin. Applying it first allows the serum to deliver its benefits effectively.
The general order for applying skincare products is: 1. Cleanser 2. Toner (optional) 3. Exfoliant (if applicable) 4. Serum (eg, vitamin C or niacinamide) 5. Moisturizer 6. Sunscreen (morning routine only). Be sure to adjust based on your specific routine and product instructions. For more, check out my Quora Profile.
Yes, you can apply moisturizer immediately after serum. This is a common skincare routine. The serum is more concentrated and targets specific skin concerns, while the moisturizer helps lock in the serum's benefits and provide hydration.
What not to do after applying serum? After applying face serums you should never use any other skincare product immediately. Wait for a few minutes to allow it to get absorbed in your skin before you follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen.
It typically depends on whether it's oil- or gel-based, but most serums start absorbing immediately. Some skincare formulas can take up to 30 minutes to fully absorb — but that doesn't mean you have to wait that long between skincare steps. Most skincare products are designed to begin absorbing right away.
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.
Layering vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serums
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.
FACE SERUM
These targeted products are designed to help improve myriad skin concerns by delivering highly concentrated formulations of active ingredients . Apply to cleansed, toned skin morning and night daily. Remember to apply your facial serum before your face oil and/or moisturizer .
While both products work great on their own, mixing an oil-based moisturizer with a water-based serum can create a filmy residue and hinder moisture absorption.
Many facial serums can be applied every day, but some need to be slowly introduced or used less often. Be sure to check the directions for use related to your facial serum of choice or consult a skincare expert. Serums are designed to be applied after cleansing but before moisturising.
Slugging is basically the process of slathering your face (or, in some cases, your nails) with petroleum jelly overnight. Social media skin care gurus claim it has given them a gorgeous glow. So, how does it work? “Petroleum jelly is a simple and very occlusive ointment,” Dr. Kassouf says.
Vogue's Favorite Wrinkle Cream Picks:
Best Overall: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced, $185. Best for Sensitive Skin: Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream, $77. Best for Tech Neck: U Beauty The Sculpt Neck + Décolleté Concentrate, $138.
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.
In general, it is best to apply serum before moisturizer. This gives the active ingredients in the serum the best chance of working. Otherwise, the best order and time of day for a skin care routine depends on the products' ingredients and the person's goals.
Yes! Your skin can benefit from both serum and moisturizer, and it's recommended to use both of these products. However, it's not strictly necessary when you are using a moisturizing face serum. You can adjust your skincare routine to suit your individual skincare needs, concerns, and goals.
Step 1: Take a pea-sized amount (about 3-4 drops) of a face serum from the dropper onto your palms. Step 2: Spread it between your palms without rubbing the product too much. Step 3: Dab the serum all over your face and neck using small and gentle tapping motions.