A comprehensive skincare routine can feel overwhelming, especially when you have multiple products to apply. The order in which you apply your skincare products can make or break their effectiveness. When you apply your products in the correct order, you ensure they work synergistically, allowing your skin to absorb the active ingredients and providing maximum benefit.
Here’s a guide to the ideal order for applying your skincare products to help you achieve healthy, balanced, and glowing skin.
1. Cleanser
The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing. Cleansers remove dirt, oil, and makeup, preparing your skin for the rest of your routine. A gentle cleanser helps to clear away impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
Cleansing is essential because it makes sure your skin is free from any barriers that could prevent other products from penetrating. You may also want to double cleanse if you think your skin needs a deeper clean.
2. Toner
After cleansing, apply toner. Toners help to balance your skin’s pH levels and provide an extra layer of hydration. Some toners also have exfoliating properties, which helps to remove any remaining dead skin cells. This step helps your skin absorb subsequent products more effectively, making it an essential part of your skincare routine.
3. Spot Treatment (Optional)
If you suffer with blemishes or acne, now’s the time to apply your spot treatments. These treatments are designed to target specific areas of concern, such as azelaic acid for pigmentation or acne. Spot treatments often contain stronger active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, so they should be applied directly to affected areas for targeted treatment.
4. Serum
Next comes the serum. Serums are packed with concentrated active ingredients that address specific skin concerns, such as fine lines, pigmentation, or dehydration. Ingredients like niacinamide and azelaic acid are often found in serums and can help with issues like uneven skin tone or redness.
Serums are applied after toner because they penetrate deeper into the skin, allowing the active ingredients to do their job effectively.
5. Eyecare
The delicate skin around your eyes requires special attention. Applying eye creams or gels after your serum provides targeted care for dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines. Eye creams contain ingredients like caffeine, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to address these concerns and keep the area hydrated. They should be applied before moisturiser to make sure the skin around the eyes is fully nourished.
6. Moisturiser
Moisturiser is key to locking in hydration and sealing all the products underneath. A good moisturiser helps to maintain your skin's natural barrier, keeping it soft and hydrated throughout the day. Moisturisers come after serums and eye creams because they help to lock in the ingredients and make sure skin stays protected and moisturised.
7. SPF
Finally, always finish with suncream in the morning. SPF protects your skin from harmful UV rays which prevents premature ageing, sunburn, and skin damage. Sunscreen should be the last step in your routine as it creates a protective barrier on top of all the products you’ve applied. It’s essential to use a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 every day, even during the winter.
Unlock the Power of Your Skincare Routine
Following the correct order when applying skincare products ensures that each product works as effectively as possible. Whether you’re using a prescription cream for wrinkles or simply maintaining your routine, applying products in the right order can help you achieve the best possible results for you and your skin.
Looking for personalised skincare or want to find out more about skincare application order? Get in touch with the experts here at MiQuest today!
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