Here's How to Layer Your Skincare Products!

Navigating the world of skincare can be overwhelming, with countless products promising radiant, youthful skin. However, one crucial aspect often overlooked is the order in which these products are applied. Correctly layering your skincare products ensures that each one performs optimally, allowing you to achieve the best results. In this guide, we’ll explore why the order of application matters and provide a step-by-step guide on how to layer skincare products effectively.

Why Does the Order for Layering Skincare Matter?

The sequence in which you apply your skincare products is essential for several reasons. Here’s why layering skincare matters:

1. Absorption and Efficacy: Different skincare products have varying consistencies and ingredients. Applying products in the correct order allows them to penetrate the skin effectively. For instance, lighter products like serums should be applied before heavier creams to ensure they’re absorbed properly.

2. Maximising Benefits: Each skincare product serves a unique purpose. Proper skincare layering ensures that each product can perform its specific function without interference. For example, applying a moisturiser before a serum can create a barrier that prevents the serum from penetrating the skin.

3. Preventing Irritation: Some active ingredients can irritate if not used correctly. By layering skin products in the right order, you can minimise potential irritation and enhance the overall effectiveness of your skincare routine.

4. Sun Protection: Suncare should always be the final step in your daytime routine. Proper layering of skin ensures that your sunscreen can form an even barrier to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Understanding the importance of the order in which you apply your skincare products sets the stage for a more effective and efficient skincare routine. Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide for layering skincare products.

Step-by-Step Guide On How To Layer Skincare Products

• Step 1: Cleanser

Start with a clean slate. Use a gentle face wash suited to your skin type to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. This step is crucial as it prepares your skin to absorb the subsequent products effectively. Cleansing should be done both in the morning and at night to maintain clear, healthy skin. Take a pea-sized amount of the cleanser on your palms and massage it all over your face. Use gentle circular motions to get rid of the dirt, dust and impurities effectively. Wash your face thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry gently.

• Step 2: Toner

Toners help to balance your skin’s pH, remove any leftover impurities, and prep your skin for the following steps. Go for a hydrating toner that nourishes the skin and leaves it looking visibly radiant, healthy and luminous. Pour a few drops of the toner into your hand, evenly distribute it onto both palms and then gently pat the formula onto the face, neck and décolleté until absorbed.

• Step 3: Essence

Essences are lightweight, hydrating products that enhance the skin’s moisture levels and improve the absorption of the following products. They often contain active ingredients that can brighten and smooth the skin. Dab it all over your face with gentle tapping motions.

• Step 4: Serum

Serums are concentrated treatments that target specific skin concerns, such as wrinkles, dark spots, or acne. Layering serums correctly helps to soak in the active ingredients and achieve maximum benefits with ease. Apply a few drops of your chosen serum and gently press it into your skin. Allow it to absorb fully before moving on to the next step.

• Step 5: Eye Cream

The delicate skin around your eyes requires special attention. Eye creams are formulated to address issues like under eye puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Use your ring finger to apply a small amount of eye cream, gently tapping it around the orbital bone.

• Step 6: Moisturiser

Moisturisers help to lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier. Choose a moisturiser suited to your skin type – lightweight gel formulas for oily skin and rich creams for dry skin. Apply it evenly over your face and neck.

• Step 7: Sunscreen (AM Routine Only)

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in your morning routine. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 as the final step. Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays, preventing premature ageing and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Take a generous amount and apply it evenly on your face, ears, neck and back of the neck. If required, reapply after a few hours.

Creating an effective skincare routine involves more than just choosing the right products – it’s also about applying them in the correct order. By following this step-by-step guide on skincare layering, you can ensure that each product works its best, helping you achieve healthier, more radiant skin. Remember, consistency is key, and with time and patience, you’ll see the benefits of a well-layered skincare routine.

Additionally, if you’re not sure which skincare products will suit you the most, do not fear as we are here. All you need to do is head to Lancôme’s E-Skin Expert tool to find your personalised skincare solution in three simple steps. Powered by more than 20 years of research, and patented technology, and created with our experts leveraging more than 85 years of skincare expertise, this tool helps to understand your skin’s needs and target them on priority. So, what are you waiting for? Browse through a wide range of skincare products by Lancôme and add them to your regular skincare regimen to pamper your skin with the love and care it needs.

FAQs

1. What is skincare layering?

Skincare layering is the process of applying skincare products in a specific order to maximise their effectiveness. Starting with the lightest, water-based products and progressing to heavier, oil-based ones ensures optimal absorption, allowing each product to perform its intended function and enhance your skin’s health and appearance.

2. What are the benefits of layering skincare?

Layering skincare benefits include enhanced product absorption, targeted treatment for various skin concerns, and improved hydration and protection. Applying products in the correct order maximises their effectiveness, ensuring each layer performs its role and contributes to healthier, more radiant skin.

3. Should I use salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid first?

Apply salicylic acid first to exfoliate and unclog pores. Then follow it up with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and replenish moisture. This sequence ensures that the salicylic acid can penetrate and treat the skin effectively, while the hyaluronic acid can then soothe and hydrate it further.

4. How to layer serums correctly?

To layer serums correctly, start with the thinnest serum, like those with water or gel-based and apply thicker, oil-based serums afterwards. Allow each serum to absorb fully before applying the next. Layering serums correctly ensures optimal penetration and effectiveness of each serum, addressing multiple skin concerns effectively.

5. What are common skincare layering mistakes to avoid?

Common skincare layering mistakes include applying products in the wrong order, using too many active ingredients simultaneously, and not allowing enough time for each product to absorb. These errors can reduce efficacy, cause irritation, or lead to product pilling, compromising the overall effectiveness of your skincare routine.