Let's face it, taking care of your skin is a must - but it can be quite overwhelming.
With so many skincare products available, multiple routines, trends, and a lot of unsolicited advice, it can be confusing to know where to begin.
The issue with learning how to curate your ideal skincare routine is that it is highly subjective and depends entirely on your skin type, concerns, habits, and lifestyle.
Which is why we have to start with the basics. Firstly, you need to determine your skin type and understand its needs. After this step, you can go ahead and learn more about the different steps that constitute a skincare routine.
Once you are done with stage one, you can move on to the tougher part of discovering different products, going through ingredient lists, understanding their benefits, and lastly, making the choice of whether you are going to add it to your routine or not.
After all these initial steps are complete - you can then move into curating your morning and night-time routine with the help of skincare layering.
What Is Skincare Layering?
Skincare layering refers to the process of applying multiple skin care products in a specific order to enhance their effectiveness and provide maximum benefits to your skin.
This method involves using multiple products with different textures, consistencies, and active ingredients to target specific skin concerns. When used correctly, skincare layering can help you achieve healthier, clearer, and more radiant skin.
Why Is Skin Layering Important?
Skincare layering works by allowing each product to penetrate deeper into your skin, increasing its effectiveness and providing a more comprehensive range of benefits. When applied in the correct order, each product acts as a base for the next, creating a synergistic effect that amplifies the results.
In short, skincare layering allows you to customize your routine based on your specific skin concerns, ensuring that each product can deliver maximum results.
How Do I Layer My Skincare?
Now that you understand the different types of skincare products and their functions, it's time to learn some tips for effective skincare layering.
By following these tips, you can get the most out of your skincare routine and achieve radiant, healthy skin -
One - Texture is key
The most important rule when it comes to layering skincare is to make sure you move from thinnest to thickest. The texture and consistency of each product can impact how well it is absorbed into your skin, and how well it works with other products in your routine.
Pay attention to the texture of each product, and choose products that are appropriate for your skin type and the current weather conditions.
Two - Potential lies in viscosity
If you want each product to work to its maximum potential you need to ensure you are going ahead with lighter water-based products like toners and serums before you layer with denser products like heavy creams and oils. This allows better penetration of the product benefits
Three - Potency matters
While layering serum, apart from the texture, the level of potency while using actives is also something you need to keep in mind. The more potent the product, the earlier it must go on.
It's important to wait a few minutes between each layer of your skincare routine, to allow the products to absorb into your skin. This also helps to avoid overloading your skin with too many products at once.
Note : Keep in mind - not all actives can be layered or used together in the same routine. For instance, exfoliants such as AHA's and BHA's should not be paired with retinoids as it could result in a damaged skin barrier. Mixing ingredients that do not go well together can cause more harm than good.
Four - Time of day
The type of product also depends on whether you are using it in your day or night routine. For instance, products like Vitamin C when layered with sunscreen work better during the day while ingredients like retinol need to be used only in your night-time routine
Creating The Ideal Layering Routine
Morning Time Routine :
Night Time Routine :
Note - It's important to avoid overloading your skin with too many products, as this can lead to irritation and breakouts. Stick to a simple routine, focusing on the most important steps, and gradually add additional products as needed.
Remember, skincare layering is all about finding the right balance for your skin. Don't be afraid to experiment and adjust your routine as needed. And most importantly, always listen to your skin and give it the TLC it deserves.
So, go ahead and pamper your skin with the right products in the right order, and watch it glow with confidence!
Love,
Rae
Image credits - Tom morby
.jpg)
Commentaires