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.
The first product you should use in your daily routine is a non-drying, fragrance-free facial cleanser. The ideal face wash can cleanse and refresh your skin without over-stripping it or disrupting the skin's moisture barrier. The second skincare essential is a non-comedogenic face moisturizer.
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.
The Core Four includes a cleanser, an exfoliant, a moisturizer, and a SPF.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For the average beginner, a five-step routine should be followed for overall skin health: cleanse, nourish, protect, repair and boost. The first three are the non-negotiable steps for all skin types. Then, add repair as the fourth step to bring damaged skin back to normal.
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.
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!
Can I leave serum overnight? Leaving a serum on over night is ideal! As stated above, serums need time to absorb and your skin is most receptive when you're asleep so having a serum on before you go to bed is a great way to have your skin get the most out of the serum.
If you use a scrub or chemical exfoliator, apply the product gently using small, circular motions. Do this for about 30 seconds, and then rinse off with lukewarm — not hot — water. If you use a brush or sponge, use short light strokes. Never exfoliate if you have open cuts or wounds or if your skin is sunburned.