How To: Layer your Skincare Products the Correct Way
10 step skincare routines, skincare products and ingredients- if you’re someone who values a good skincare regimen, you might want to hear this! Having a solid regimen isn’t just about the products, but more about being able to max out its full potential. You can achieve this by learning how to properly layer your products in the correct order and knowing what ingredients you should or should not mix!
Let’s start off with the basics. First rule of thumb? Apply the lightest product first and the heaviest last. According to Dr. Shereene Idriss, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, “thinner products can’t penetrate thicker products.” This means applying the lightest product last will prove to be ineffective and on top of that, you end up wasting it!
Basic How To:
- Cleanser
- Always use a gentle, hydrating cleanser
- Wash face twice daily (morning and night)
- Double cleanse with micellar water or cleansing balm if you wear makeup often!
- Toner
- Because of its water-like consistency, toner should be applied right after cleansing
- Apply twice daily (morning and night)
- Exfoliate with AHA/BHA only 2-3 times a week. Do not use retinol on the days you exfoliate.
- Serums
- For mornings, apply a Vitamin C serum
- For nighttime, opt for Hyaluronic Acid serum
- Moisturizer
- Apply eye cream first before your regular moisturizer
- For people with oily skin, apply twice daily (morning and night)
- Sunscreen
- Should always be the last step before applying makeup
- Apply daily and every 2 hours if you’re planning to be outside all day
Beginner Skincare Routine
Sometimes less is more! If you’re a simple gal and adding more steps to your routine is just too much, you can skip the toner and serums. It’s a less complex version that is just as effective:
- Cleanser- When in doubt, look for a gentle and sulfate-free cleanser. Recommendations: KD Clean Green Antioxidant Cleanser
- Moisturizer- You’ll want to find a formula that’s both hydrating and fragrance-free. Recommendations: KD Smooth & Soothe Sheer Moisturizer
- Sunscreen- If you’re looking for a reliable sunscreen, make sure it has at least 30 SPF. Recommendations: KD Clear Sheer Sunscreen. It’s rich in antioxidants and has 50 SPF. Its weightless formula is great for layering and won’t feel as heavy on your face.
Ingredients to Mix
Get the most out of your products with these combinations:
- Niacinamide & Salicylic Acid- Both are great for treating acne and hyperpigmentation. Combined, these products can improve your overall complexion.
- Retinoids & Peptides- Both products work to promote tighter, firmer skin and achieve a smoother looking appearance.
DO NOT MIX.
Be careful with which products you’re layering. Instead of helping, they can end up further irritating your skin:
- Retinol & Vitamin C, Benzoyl Peroxide, and/or AHA/BHA acids- It’s less effective as they cancel each other out. Used together, these products can dehydrate the skin and cause irritation.
- Niacinamide & Vitamin C- Although both are antioxidants, they are not compatible. The potency of each product becomes diminished when used together.
There you have it. Now that you know the rules to layering skin care ingrediants, you can take your routine a step further and achieve beautiful, radiant skin faster.
