How to layer skincare products, whether it’s for the day time routine or night, the former has been probably one of the most Googled questions in 2020. And let’s face it, even though there is no hard and fast rule (just kidding) there are still some steps that need to be followed. Why are we focusing on how to layer skincare products at night because “Your skin goes into repair mode at night, working extra hard to fix damage and boost regeneration,” says Dr. Gohara.
So we’re going to help you figure out how to layer skincare products in the night time so you can pamper yourself in 2021. It’s so annoying how much all this makes so much sense now!
Ps. We have some sunscreen recommendations also.
CLEANSE
No matter how I tried, dead or angry I am, I never go to bed without removing my makeup. You want to wipe your face clean for all that gunk and bacteria for a cleaner canvas so all the skin care products can effectively work. I don’t use makeup wipes because honestly my skin breakouts so I use Garnier’s Micellar Water or a cleansing oil and wash my face with a gentle cleanser because I have dry skin.
So ladies, this is your first step, CLEANSE AND CLEAN YOUR FACE.
TONER
Honestly, the first time I actually started using a toner was a couple of years ago when I was really into following the 12 step Korean Skincare routine, you know the glass skin obsession? Yeah, well that didn’t really work so I skipped. But now I actually know how essential a good toner is for your skin to remove all the residue and impurities left behind and unclog those very microscopic pores. Again, I use either use a toner from Garnier or Nivea. A toner is meant to absorb in your skin within seconds and there are so many toners in the market so please [very important] get a toner that works according to your skin type.
SERUM
You must have a couple of serums lying on your dresser and sometimes we do forget about them and how to use them. Every serum has a purpose from healing to brightening to even lightening your skin tone. Think of it as a boost to your skin and a step that you cannot miss. Everyone uses serums according to their skin condition, since I have dry skin so I use hyaluronic acid to plump up my dull skin even though I need Vitamin C and some pigmentation shots, but we all need a good serum to hydrate and give our skin the needed nutrients.
EYE CREAM
Eye creams tend to be thinner and lighter in texture which is why you should apply them before the heavier products like face oils and moisturizers. And since the skin around your eyes is delicate so just dab and tap the product gently around your eyes to avoid irritation and rashes.
Pro Tip: I generally keep my creams in the fridge because the colder the product, the more fluid retention there is and healing of fine lines and wrinkles.
SPOT TREATMENT (ACNE, SCARS, DARK SPOTS, ZITS)
No matter the purpose of the spot treatment, the process is the same. The idea is to dab the product in your skin because that’s when you’re skin is trying it’s hardest to heal. And make sure that the product that you use dries off before you head to the next step otherwise the product will slide off. So ensure that it is locked in your skin.
MOISTURIZER
My skin is so temperamental so I cannot do without a moisturizer 365 days a year. And let’s face it, you need a good barrier for your skin to protect, lock and absorb in your skin so everything else that you’ve applied effectively works. Don’t opt for a greasy product and try a light weight moisturizer that will also let your skin breathe. I use the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream.
RETINOL
“Retinoids—the general term for vitamin A derivatives, like retinol and adapalene—sink into your skin to speed up cell turnover, causing your body to churn out fresher, smoother, less wrinkled skin over time.”… (online resource)
“Retinoids trigger collagen production and cellular exfoliation, which means they’ll also fade dark spots, smooth scars, clear pores, prevent breakouts, and brighten skin.”… (online resource)
FACE OIL
Oils can penetrate through moisturizers and serums therefore they have to be applied as a last step. All skin types need oils even acne prone ones, so layering oil on all the other products seals the ingredients of the products already applied.
