Skincare Products: Are you Applying Them Correctly

When it comes to skincare, it seems like we all have a trusted daily routine that we’ve been using day in and day out for years. Slap on a little of this and pat on a little of that and you’re set to go. However, a few hours later, your skin may not be looking its best. Or maybe you’re not getting the results you’ve expected from the product. If you’ve been using multiple skincare products or are thinking about adding a new one into the mix, here is what you need to know about the order in which they should be applied to get the most out of them.

The Importance of Product Sequence

Applying your skincare products in the proper order ensures that your skin is reaping the benefits of each product. You need to consider the ingredients of each product and how they are absorbed into the skin. For example, you don’t want to apply a cream-based product before using a serum; the cream’s emolliency would prevent the serum from reaching the skin for full absorbency. Timing is also crucial to product effectiveness. If you use a skincare regime with an acne treatment, the active ingredient of benzoyl peroxide has a 1-3 hour working time. If you apply another cream within that working timeframe, the active ingredient will likely be inhibited.

The Order of Skincare Success

•    Step 1: Cleanser
Start by using a cleanser to remove dirt and oil buildup. Make sure to exfoliate at least once or twice a week.

•    Step 2: Toner
Can you believe that many people don’t use toner? If you’re one of them, you’re missing out on its multiple benefits, as it removes embedded dirt and residue, and is full of potent vitamins and antioxidants that refresh and awaken the skin.

•    Step 3: Spot Treatment
Prescription medications and spot treatments need to be applied as close to the skin as possible to ensure maximum benefit. Allow at least 5 minutes for the skin to absorb the treatment before layering your next product.

•    Step 4: Serum
Since serums are rich with nutrients, it’s best to apply them as close to the skin as possible. If you use multiple serums, apply the liquid ones first, followed by gels, and then creams.

•    Step 5: Eye Cream
Eye creams are like specially designed serums and moisturizers for your delicate eye area. Apply them after you’ve let your other serums absorb.

•    Step 6: Moisturize or Face Oil
Like the rest of the body, your skin does the bulk of its repairing and regenerating as you sleep, which is why night creams are generally thicker and heavier and designed to be absorbed over the course of several hours.

While this skincare product sequence allows for the greatest absorption of nutrients, you still need to listen to your skin and find out what works best for it. If you have any questions, stop by Botanica and talk to one of our skincare experts!

Love,

Gen