How to layer your skincare products

how to layer your skincare products

Serums, masks, moisturisers, retinols…There are so many skin care products on the market right now and it can be overwhelming figuring out what to apply when and how to layer your skincare products properly.  Applying your products in the right order means that your skin will benefit from each and every product. It also means that you will get maximum results as the products will all be working harmoniously.

How to layer your skincare products

A good rule of thumb is to apply the product with a thinner consistency first.  A product with a thicker consistency can act as a barrier, so applying that as the first layer can prevent any other products from reaching and penetrating the skin.  It means that if you are layering multiple products over that thicker product, they’re not benefiting your skin at all and can cost you money in the long run.

When it comes to layering skincare in your morning and evening routine, the order is pretty similar, but with a couple of small changes.  You should be applying your SPF in the morning, not in the evening.  And when applying retinols, this should be carried out in the evening, not in the morning.

Layering products in the morning

Step 1: Cleanse and exfoliate

Even if you’ve cleansed the night before, it’s important to start your morning skincare routine by cleansing and exfoliating.  It’s not vital to exfoliate daily, but it’s best to do it in the morning as it can help remove dead skin cells.  Cleansing with a product like the ILUMA intense brightening exfoliating cleanser takes care of those two steps at once and is gentle enough to be used every day.  It leaves the skin clean, soft and bright, ready for the next layer.

Step 2: Apply your serum

Serums are a great way of giving your skin a high concentration of powerful ingredients.  Choose a serum for your specific skin concern, or if you want to tackle multiple concerns, you can apply a second serum at this point too.  Assess which serum has the thinnest texture and apply that first.  Or if you are applying the two serums to different parts of your face, they can be applied at the same time.  The VITAL C hydrating anti-aging serum gives the skin a high dose of moisture and antioxidants to the skin, leaving it hydrated, protected and brighter.

Step 3: Apply your eye cream

If you are using an eye cream, now is the time to apply it. The AGELESS total eye lift créme contains plant stem cells, vitamin C and peptides to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, lax skin and puffiness.

Step 4: Apply your SPF Moisturiser

This is the final layer in your morning skincare routine and locks in all of the previous products.  Applying any of the PREVENTION+ SPF products gives the skin protection and moisture, acting as the perfect base for your makeup.

 

Layering products in the evening

Step 1: Cleanse the skin

Again, this is the first step in your routine.  Cleansing removes your makeup, dirt, grime, toxins and impurities.  If you’re wearing makeup, it’s important to double cleanse.  The first cleanse removes the makeup, while the second cleanse actually works on the skin itself.  The VITAL C hydrating facial cleanser emulsifies makeup and gently removes impurities while nourishing skin with essential antioxidants and vitamins.

Step 2: Apply a mask

If you are applying a mask, now is the time to do it as the skin is cleansed with no other products on it.  The MAX stem cell masque helps to visibly improve the appearance of skin tightness, firmness and elasticity and can be used 3-4 times a week to give dry, dull or mature skin a hydrating and revitalising boost.

Step 3: Apply your serum

If your skin needs a retinol-based serum, now is the time to apply it.  The AGELESS total retinol-A crème has a blend of retinol and polypeptides that resurface, rejuvenate and repair ageing skin and acne prone skin.  You can also apply your eye cream at this point.

Step 4: Use a richer cream

Lock all of your products in with a richer face cream like the VITAL C hydrating repair crème.  This quenches and soothes the skin with its blend of hyaluronic acid, ceramides and vitamins.  Or try the ORMEDIC balancing biopeptide crème which boosts and balances moisture-depleted skin. It contains botanical butters, hyaluronic acid and organic plant oils, making it the perfect final layer in your night time skincare routine.

For further information on how to layer your skincare products, visit your local IMAGE Skincare location for a consultation with one of our therapists.