Self • October 29, 2024
Cara
Skincare Routine 101
The Proper Order to Apply Your Skincare
One of the most asked questions I got when I worked in a dermatology office was, “in what order should I use my products?”. Patients would bound out of their appointments, product recommendations in hand and excited to get going with their new routine. Only problem was…they didn’t know exactly how and when to use them!
Whether you have three products in your routine or six (don’t judge!), the order in which you apply them to your face is critical to them working properly. We’ve put together a quick “cheat sheet” for your morning and evening routine (yes, they should be different).
Please note: Everyone’s skin is different, which means everyone’s skincare routine will be different. You don’t need to use all these products, but the general rule is apply lightest to heaviest to maximize absorption.
Mornings
1. Cleanser*. Wash off the sweat and oil your skin produces while you sleep. I am sometimes tempted to give my face just a good splash of water in the morning, but have trained myself to use a gentle cleanser which prepares my face for all the next steps.
2. Toner/Exfoliant. A nice gentle liquid exfoliant sloughs away old skin and allows for better absorption of your more active products. Essences or toners are also good, as long as they are not drying.
3. Serum. Vitamin C serum is a wonderful, powerful agent in the fight against anti-aging, hyperpigmentation and also protects against environmental factors. Another good morning serum would be a hyaluronic or niacinamide serum.
4. Eye Cream.
5. Moisturizer*.
6. Sunscreen*. The most important part of your morning routine should be protecting your skin from the sun and its effects. Re-apply if you are planning on being outside for long periods of time. You’ll thank yourself later.
Nights
1. Makeup Remover/Cleanser*. In the evening, I like to double cleanse- first I use a balm to remove makeup, then I go in with my gentle cleanser to make sure my face is clean. A cleansing oil is also a great way to remove makeup if you prefer that.
2. Toner. Use the same one as in the morning, or kick it up with a stronger exfoliant.
3. Retinoids. Many dermatologists consider this, along with sunscreen, as the most important part of your skincare routine. These should not be taken lightly though; start with an over-the-counter retinol and use very sparingly (think pea-sized) every other day to start for at least 2 weeks.
4. Serum. This is a good time to pour on the hydration by using a hyaluronic serum.
5. Eye Cream. Always gentle taps around the eye!
6. Moisturizer*. A heavier moisturizer at night forms a layer on your skin that protects against water loss which leads to dryness.
7. SLEEP!! Easier said than done I know, but that’s a subject for another day!
*Most important, do-not-skip steps.
If you’re into extra credit, throw in a face mask or two during the week. We like these a lot! They are magical, especially before an event. Your makeup goes in like a dream and you GLOW!
As you get more and more into your skincare routine (which we hope we are inspiring you to do), you can add “advanced” elements like toners and retinoids. But what is most important is that you are religious in cleansing, moisturizing and protecting your skin with sunscreen. They are simple enough steps to ensure your skin reflects the ageless beauty that you are.
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