What is the Correct Way to Layer Skincare?
March 30, 2025
Skincare is a practice that improves the health and appearance of the skin. Achieving glowing skin that is healthy isn’t just about using the right products, it’s also about applying them in the correct order. If you’ve ever wondered how to layer your skincare, this guide will walk you through the essential steps.
Did You Know that Your Skin Acts as a Barrier ?
Your skin acts as a barrier, and the way you apply products affects how well they penetrate. Applying products in the wrong order can reduce their effectiveness, causing breakouts or skin irritation, for instance.
Now, let’s dive into the guide to layering skincare
Step 1: Cleanser (AM & PM)
In the morning and night, start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt and oil. Cleansing refreshes the skin in the AM, while at night, it clears away pollutants and impurities. A good practice is to double cleanse at night if you wear makeup or sunscreen.
Step 2: Toner (AM & PM)
Toners help balance the skin’s pH, remove any leftover residue, and prep your skin for better absorption of serums and moisturizers. Toners should be applied after cleansing your skin. Apply toner with either a cotton pad or with your hands for better absorption.
Step 3: Serum (AM & PM)
Serums contain concentrated active ingredients that targets specific skin concerns like wrinkles or hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C serums can be used in the morning for brightening and antioxidant protection. Hyaluronic acid can be used at night for hydration. Retinol is great for anti-aging and niacinamide works well for acne-prone skin. Be sure to apply serums while your skin is still damp for better penetration
Step 4: Eye Cream (AM & PM)
Eye creams hydrate, reduce wrinkles, puffiness, and diminish dark circles. Using your ring finger, apply eye cream gently as the skin around your eyes are sensitive.
Step 5: Moisturizer (AM & PM)
The amazing thing about moisturizers is that they seal in hydration and help strengthen the skin barrier. A good tip is to use lightweight gel moisturizers for oily skin and thicker creams for dry skin.
Step 6: Sunscreen (AM ONLY)
Sunscreen protects your skin against UV damage, premature aging, and hyperpigmentation. Use at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours outdoors. I don’t can’t help but express how important using sunscreen is!
Step 7: Facial Oil (PM ONLY)
Using facial oils is optional but provides an extra boost of nourishment while locking in all the previous skincare steps. When applying, press oil into the skin rather than rubbing to avoid disrupting other layers.
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Bonus Tips for Skincare Layering Success
Wait between layers: Give each product about 30 seconds before applying the next layer.
Use the thinnest to thickest rule: Use water-based products first and oil-based products last.
Be consistent: Skincare results take time, and you must be consistent.
Now that you have this skincare guide to layering your skincare, you are ready maximize the effectiveness of your skincare products, leading to healthier, more radiant skin!