Order Matters When It Comes To Skin Care Products

When it comes to skincare, there’s plenty to consider. First, you have to determine your skin type, along with any allergies or sensitivities. Then, you must do your homework and find the right products that address your specific skincare concerns. But as it turns out: having a well-researched regimen is just the beginning of your journey to healthy skin, because when you apply each product is equally important as having the right ones.

“Order absolutely matters when it comes to skincare products,” explains skincare formulator Mary Allan. So while beginning your routine with face wash is obvious, what should be the next steps?

First things first: always apply water-based products before oil-based ones. “Oil-based products create an occlusive layer that traps water-based products onto the skin, and not allowing them to evaporate,” says Allan, who also likes to compare skincare products to bedding. “Think of oil-based products like a duvet cover that lays on top of lighter layer (like sheets) on a bed. You put the heaviest layer on top.”

 As for if you can layer a moisturizer on top of an oil, that depends. If the formula is a mix of oil and water, Allan says go for it. But if it’s a gel or water-based, then it should go on first.

And daily sunscreen – which is a must, come rain or shine – should always be the final step of your regimen. Allan says, “I personally like to apply my treatment serums and moisturizer first and allow them to fully absorb, then I apply my sunscreen.”

Below, the correct order or to apply your skincare morning and night.

 AM Regimen

1.     Cleanser

2.     Toner

3.     Serum

4.     Moisturizer

5.     Oil

6.     SPF

PM Regimen

1.     Cleanser

2.     Toner

3.     Serum or Treatments (retinol, acids, anything prescription)

4.     Moisturizer

5.     Oil