We Cracked the Combination!

In life, figuring out the right order for your skincare routine shouldn't be too hard.

But with so many products out there, like cleansers, serums, and moisturizers, it can be confusing to know when and how to use them in your 10-step routine.

Let's talk about why it's important to use skincare products in the right order. The main job of our skin is to protect our bodies and keep harmful things out.

But for skincare products to work well, their active ingredients need to penetrate the skin properly.

Using products in the wrong order or using too much of one product can make them less effective or even cause redness and irritation.

1. Start Light:

Begin with lightweight products and follow the order of consistencies. After cleansing, use a toner with a water-like formula. It helps remove dead skin cells, allowing your moisturizer to penetrate better. Toners with exfoliating ingredients like salicylic and glycolic acids should go before applying a serum.

2. Work in Serums:

Serums are essential because they deliver active ingredients efficiently. Choose serums that address specific concerns, such as peptides for wrinkles, salicylic acid for oily skin, or licorice and aloe for calming redness.

3. Add an Antioxidant:

Vitamin C is crucial for all skin types. It brightens the skin, protects against sun damage, and boosts collagen production. Be cautious not to pair it with a toner or moisturizer containing alpha hydroxy acids. Instead, use green tea or resveratrol.

4. Treat Blemishes:

For acne-prone skin, use a benzoyl peroxide acne spot cream after applying a serum but before moisturizing. This ingredient destroys bacteria and has anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Lock in Moisture:

Moisturizer is vital as it seals in serums, making them more effective. Choose one based on your skin type. For normal to oily skin, try Neutrogena Hydro Boost, and for dry skin, consider bareMinerals Butter Drench.

6. Add an Oil:

Apply oils on dry areas after creams. Oils can penetrate moisturizers, but not the other way around. Use oils like Rodin Luxury Face Oil or Burt's Bees Facial Oil for a radiant look.

7. Don't Forget Protection:

In the morning, finish with sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Sunscreen should be the last step, as it sits on top of your skin and prevents other ingredients from penetrating.

8. Nighttime Finale:

Finish off your nighttime skincare routine with a retinoid, such as RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Crème. Dermatologists highly recommend this powerful ingredient for a more youthful appearance.

Note that retinol is not suitable for daytime use because it breaks down in the sun. Also, avoid pairing it with certain ingredients like vitamin C and salicylic acid. When using retinol, simply cleanse your face, apply a basic moisturizer, and skip exfoliating for the next two mornings.

Following this skincare routine in the right order will help your products work better and keep your skin healthy.