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.
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.
Layer From Lightest To Heaviest Formulas
As a general rule of thumb, apply your products in this order: cleanser, toner/essence, treatment/mask, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, oil, SPF. Sunscreen always goes last, and the only thing that you should layer over sunscreen is powder, concealer, or foundation.”
Allow 1-2 minutes between the application of each serum for full absorption of the vitamin C by your skin before you apply the hyaluronic acid. This ensures that both ingredients can work together effectively.
The rule of thumb for skincare is to apply the lightest product first and the heaviest last, since thinner products can't penetrate through thicker ones. Morning Skincare Routine should focus on prevention and protection for the day. Nighttime Skincare Routine should focus on cleansing and repairing.
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.
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.
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.
However, a physical sunscreen (aka mineral sunscreen) should always be applied after your moisturizer. This is because a physical sunscreen sits on top of the skin—it never penetrates it—instead creating a barrier between your skin and UV rays, reflecting them away.
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.
CeraVe body moisturizers are developed with dermatologists, gentle on skin, fragrance-free, and intensely hydrating. They're formulated with beneficial ingredients (like ceramides) and are a great option for mature skin.
Hydrate with a nourishing moisturizer: To achieve a glowing complexion, moisturizing is essential. Choose a hydrating moisturizer that suits your skin type and contains nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, or aloe vera. Apply it to your face and neck, massaging it gently until fully absorbed.
Bailey calls this "the magic 3-minute rule". While bathing, your skin absorbs water but will be prone to evaporation after you towel off to dry. It is essential to apply a thin layer of moisturizer or lotion to your skin within three minutes after toweling off to dry.
Rule 1: Determine your skin type
To do so, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and don't apply any of your other skincare products. Wait a while after washing and examine your natural skin texture and tone closely. If you look in the mirror and see that your skin is shiny, you have oily skin.
The Problem with Excessive Products
Many individuals fall into the trap of using a multitude of skincare products, thinking they're doing their skin a favor. However, this can actually have a detrimental effect. Overloading your skin with too many ingredients can lead to inflammation and irritation.
A good rule is to always apply your skincare from thinnest to thickest consistency to help all your products absorb. At a minimum, your skincare routine should include cleansing, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
Have you heard of the 7 Skin Method? It's a Korean skincare technique that involves layering toner on your skin up to seven times to achieve a hydrated and glowing complexion. If you're looking for a way to improve your skin's texture and appearance, the 7 Skin Method might be just what you need!
The best order to apply skincare products
“In the morning, the order would be: cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, sunscreen,” he explains. “The evening would be: makeup remover, cleanser, retinol, [and] moisturizer or night cream.”
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.
Retinoids don't combine well with AHAs, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or vitamin C due to potential stability issues and skin sensitivities, and soap-based cleansers can also reduce vitamin C's skin benefits.