Glow Up, Round the Clock
Did you know that there are right and wrong ways to how you can apply your skincare products? The fundamental guideline is to apply products in order of ascending consistency, prioritizing the absorption of lighter formulas before moving on to heavier and thicker ones. Adjusting your skincare products based on your skin type and age is also vital. So, what is the first step? Here is the right order of skin care routine that you've possibly been missing out on.
A.M. Skincare Routine
Here’s your order for your morning skin care routine.
1. Cleanser
Your morning skincare routine should begin with a lightweight cleanser. During your sleep, your skin naturally rejuvenates, but it can collect oil and sweat. A morning cleanser serves as a gentle solution to remove these impurities, guarding against clogged pores and fostering a refreshed, harmonious complexion. Moreover, it primes your skin for further product application.
2. Toner
What is the first step after cleaning your face? A toner. Today's toners have come a long way from their harsh, alcohol-based predecessors. Today, good toners are either packed with gentle hydrating ingredients for dry and sensitive skin or contain chemical exfoliants to target acne and bumps. With a gentle tap, they will prepare your face for better absorption of subsequent skincare products.
3. Serum
Apply serum to the skin and enjoy its powerful components like antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and peptides. These components will deeply penetrate the skin, offering potent hydration, fighting signs of aging, reducing hyperpigmentation and shielding against environmental stressors.
4. Eye Cream
To maintain healthy eyelid skin, dermatologists recommend applying an eye cream daily starting in your 20s. This consistent routine helps preserve skin thickness and elasticity, preventing sagging and maintaining a smooth appearance as you age. Opt for an eye cream with SPF and wear sunscreen daily for extra protection.
5. Moisturizer
Moisturizing is an essential step not to be skipped. The best moisturizers hydrate, protect and fortify your skin's barrier while minimizing signs of aging and providing an ideal base for makeup. Choosing a moisturizer that matches your skin type is key. For oily or acne-prone skin, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. To lock in moisture, consider using a hyaluronic-based cream, and for anti-aging effects, look for products with retinol.
6. SPF
Sunscreen is a year-round necessity, even when skies are cloudy. It's a vital shield against the sun's harmful UV rays, which can accelerate skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. In your morning regimen, opt for sunscreen with SPF 30, at least. Apply it for at least 30 minutes before stepping outdoors for optimal protection.
7. Foundation
Applying powder foundation offers several advantages to your makeup routine. Firstly, it provides a matte finish, helping control excess shine and keep your skin fresh throughout the day. This should be the last step in your morning routine.
P.M. skincare routine
Here is your order of skin care routine for the evening.
1. Makeup Remover
Incorporating a makeup remover into your skincare routine is essential, as it efficiently and gently rids your skin of makeup, dirt and impurities. Allowing makeup to linger overnight can result in clogged pores, potentially causing breakouts and a lackluster complexion. A specialized makeup remover guarantees a comprehensive cleanse, warding off these concerns and fostering a fresh, healthy skin appearance.
2. Cleanser
A nightly cleanse clears away these impurities, enabling your skin to rejuvenate and breathe as you rest. Furthermore, it primes your skin for improved absorption of nighttime skincare products, enhancing their efficacy. Additionally, a bedtime cleanse aids in eliminating environmental toxins and free radicals that your skin experiences throughout the day.
3. Serum
Serums can target various concerns, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, fading dark spots or acne scars and providing intense hydration.
Since serums are lightweight and fast-absorbing, they penetrate deep into your skin, delivering their benefits effectively.
4. Spot Treatment (Optional)
Skin undertakes most of its repair and rejuvenation during sleep, making nighttime ideal for targeted skincare treatments like prescription medications, retinol creams and anti-aging serums. Choose your evening treatment based on your current skin needs, or consult a dermatologist to get the right treatment and approach your skin deserves.
5. Eye Cream
The delicate eye area is susceptible to fine lines, puffiness and dark circles, which can worsen due to factors like fatigue and aging. An eye cream is specially designed with ingredients like peptides, antioxidants and hydrating agents to target these issues. When applied at night, it harnesses the skin's natural repair cycle, effectively reducing signs of aging, puffiness and fatigue.
6. Face Oil
Argan, rosehip and jojoba oils are packed with essential fatty acids and antioxidants that work wonders for your skin. They repair the skin's protective barrier, seal in moisture and combat signs of aging effectively. These oils also create a shield against environmental stressors. A face oil before bed guarantees a rejuvenated and radiant complexion upon waking, making it particularly advantageous for dry or mature skin.
7. Hydrating Mist
Many hydrating mists feature humectants like hyaluronic acid, known for their moisture-attracting abilities, resulting in a plump and well-hydrated complexion. Furthermore, misting your face can serve as a soothing pre-bedtime ritual, aiding relaxation and reducing stress, ultimately promoting a more restful night's sleep.