If you have been using the same skincare products for weeks and haven’t seen the desired results, it may not be because of the product’s ingredients. The order you apply your skincare products impacts how well they are absorbed into your skin.
Why Does the Order of Application Matter?
Your skin is a barrier naturally designed to protect against external irritants and pollutants. Applying your skincare products in a specific order optimizes their absorption and efficacy.
Which Order Should I Apply My Skincare Products?
Apply the products with the thinnest consistency first and the thickest consistency last. You should also apply products with skin-repairing ingredients like retinol, ceramides, and antioxidants first, so they have the highest level of exposure to the skin for optimal absorption. Finish with an emollient or humectant-based product to seal in moisture and provide a protective barrier.
The best order to apply your skincare products is:
1. Cleanser or Soap
Gently clean your skin to remove debris, oils, and pollutants with FaceDoctor Rejuvenating Soap. Rinse with warm water to relax the pores, and pat dry with a microfiber towel, leaving the face slightly damp.
2. Toner
Toner removes soap and cleanser residue to prepare the skin to absorb your skincare products. However, if you have dry or sensitive skin, you can skip this step because astringent toners can strip the natural oils from your skin. Choose an alcohol-free toner to prevent irritation.
3. Serum
Serums typically contain highly concentrated levels of active skincare ingredients. These support functions such as cell renewal, elasticity, and collagen production. It is best to use an antioxidant serum (vitamin C, vitamin E, niacinamide) in the morning and retinol or peptides at night (retinol makes your skin more sensitive to UV).
4. Eye Cream
Eye creams are designed to eliminate fluid retention that causes puffiness and fade dark circles due to hyperpigmentation.
5. Treatment
Before you seal your skin with moisturizer, add any treatments for breakouts or an overnight moisturizing mask.
6. Moisturizer
Moisturizers are thick, creamy products that seal your other skincare products into your skin. Look for a formula such as FaceDoctor Beauty Cream that contains humectant ingredients like glycerin to draw moisture into the deep layers of skin and occlusive ingredients like beeswax to prevent moisture loss.
7. Sunscreen (AM Only)
The last layer you need in the morning is SPF 30 or more sunscreen to prevent sun damage from UV rays. Since sunscreen acts as a shield that blocks or scatters UV, it needs to be on the outside of all your other products to work effectively.
Optimize Your Skincare Routine With FaceDoctor
In addition to applying your skincare products in the correct order, you need to invest in high-quality products that are gentle on your skin. Explore the complete collection of FaceDoctor products for a radiant, healthy complexion.
