Skincare Layering 101

With so many skincare products on the market today, it can be very daunting trying to figure out what the correct order of application is. Does the moisturizer go on first? Or would it be the serums? What about the masks or retinol products? Does the skincare application order change depending on what time of day you are using the products?

If you’ve asked yourself any one of those questions, we’ll aim to help demystify the confusion of skincare layering. Proper layering can improve the benefits you get from your skincare products, and will ensure you are getting exactly what you pay for in each product.

First, What Is Skincare Layering?

When it comes to skincare products, the term layering is referring to the order each product goes onto your skin. It might also apply to the same product being applied more than once for added benefits.

Skincare layering can be somewhat simple when you are only using two or three products, but when you move into five, six or even ten products the layering process can become much more confusing. You might be wondering if it’s even worth it. In fact, layering skincare products can not only increase their benefits but can also ensure you get the most out of your purchases.

The general rule of thumb is that thin products go on first. You don’t want a thick lotion on your skin when you are trying to add a hydrating serum, as the thicker lotion may prevent the serum from reaching your skin. This not only prevents your skin from receiving the benefits of the serum, but also ends up costing you money in the long run.

How Do I Layer My Skincare?

Layering your skincare products is a very similar process between the morning and evening applications, however there are small changes for each. For example, in the morning or early day you would want to apply sunscreen. This would not be needed during the evenings.

Additionally, adding products that include retinol should be done during the evening as contact with the sun can negate the benefits of the retinol. These products are best used before you climb into bed for the night as they can be working their magic while you sleep.

Morning Routine

• Exfoliate and Cleanse
  While you sleep, dead skin cells and other impurities can build up on the surface of your skin and in your pores. Using a cleanser such as the ILUMA Intense Brightening Exfoliating Cleanser is an excellent first step to give yourself a clean canvas to work with.
• Press In Your Favorite Toner
  Toner is almost like a second cleanser and can help remove any impurities you missed in the first step. After adding toner, consider adding any hydrating essences you may have now as well.
• Slather on a Concentrated Serum
  Serums are easily absorbed into the skin and are a great way to deliver targeted nutrients where you need them most. If you suffer from dry skin, consider using the VITAL C Hydrating Anti-Aging serum to restore intense levels of moisture to your skin. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, is also amazing in tandem with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. This is also the right time to apply some eye cream.
• Dab on Facial Creams
  To finish off your routine and lock in all the hydration and nutrients, now is the perfect time to add any facial creams you may have. This can include eye creams or SPF moisturizers such as Prevention+ Daily Hydrating Moisturizer with SPF 30 protection.

Evening Routine

• Wash Off the Day With a Cleanser
  After a busy day your skin can collect dust, dirt and toxins. Using a cleanser like the AGELESS Total Facial Cleanser can remove these impurities, as well as gently remove makeup you have worn throughout the day.
• Add a Hydrating Essence
  Essences are similar to a toner which you would use during your early day routine. In this case, their job is to hydrate and repair your skin from the inside out.
• Use a Serum to Target Your Biggest Concerns
  This is a great time to add your favorite serum, especially if the product contains retinol. These highly concentrated and lightweight products deliver a boost of active ingredients to any trouble spots you may have. The ILUMA Intense Facial Illuminator, for example, is an excellent choice to reduce the appearance of dark spots or hyperpigmentation. Follow with an eye cream, which is formulated with the delicate and fragile eye area in mind.
• Finish With a Richer Cream
  During the evening, you won’t need to add a moisturizing cream that includes SPF. Instead, look into thicker, more moisturizing creams such as the MAX crème that target trouble spots like dark circles, fine lines, or puffiness from a busy day.

If you’re new to skincare layering, it’s understandable that the process may seem like a lot of work or is confusing to you. However, once you understand which products should be started with and which are better as finishers, filling in the blanks becomes much easier.

Whether you are using three products or ten, ensuring they are layered onto your skin in the right order and at the right time of day will give you the best benefits of every product and ingredient they contain.