How to Layer Skincare Products Effectively

Like most people, you might have stood in front of your bathroom mirror, juggling serums, moisturizers, and toners, wondering what goes where. Layering is a common dilemma for those who have just started using skincare products.

Properly layering skincare products can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right order and a few expert insights, you can get the most out of your products and a glowing skin that’ll make heads turn.

In this quick read, we will walk you through why layering matters and how to do it effectively. 

Let’s dive in.

Why Layering Matters

The order in which you apply skincare products is more than just a habit. Your year-round skincare routine works best when applied from the thinnest to the thickest texture. This helps lighter, water-based products penetrate your skin deeply before heavier, oil-based ones can create a barrier to lock everything in.

Steps Involved in Proper Skincare Layering 

When it comes to skincare, always follow the cardinal rule of going from the thinnest to the thickest layer. This means starting with the lightest product, like a toner, and finishing with the heaviest, such as a moisturizer or facial oil. 

Let’s break these steps down for you:

Step 1: Cleanser

Always start your skincare routine with a clean slate. In the morning, use a gentle cleanser to remove sweat and oils that accumulate overnight. At night, you will want to cleanse twice - first with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and SPF, then with a water-based cleanser to clear away any remaining dirt or impurities.

When cleansing:

• Use lukewarm water to avoid depriving your skin of natural oils.
• Pat your skin dry with a soft towel; don’t rub!

Step 2: Toner

Toners prepare your skin by balancing its pH and providing hydration, which prepares it to help absorb the next layers of skincare products. When applying a toner, pour a small amount onto your palms or a cotton pad and gently pat it on your skin. Don’t rub.

Step 3: Serum

Serums are your targeted treatment step. They are packed with active ingredients designed to tackle concerns like dullness, fine lines, or acne. For instance, anti-aging serums can help you fight fine lines and dullness. Since they are lightweight and highly concentrated, serums should go on early in your routine for maximum absorption.

However, use the right serum to get the most out of your routine:

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C-rich serums, like the Revision Skincare Vitamin C Lotion 30%, are perfect for morning routines. They brighten and protect your skin against environmental damage.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a hydration superstar that plumps and smooths the skin. So, include products like PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum in your morning and evening routine.
• Retinol or Peptides: These serums are perfect for evening use and promote cell turnover and repair. Totality Skincare offers serums with different concentrations of retinol and peptide-rich gels from leading brands.

If you wish to layer multiple serums, start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up.

Step 4: Eye Cream

The delicate skin around your eyes needs a little extra TLC. Eye creams are formulated to address puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines without being too heavy.

When applying eye cream:

• Use your ring finger (the gentlest) to tap a pea-sized amount around the orbital bone. 
• Avoid rubbing, as this can tug at the sensitive skin.

Step 5: Spot Treatments

If you have blemishes, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or discoloration, now is the time to apply your spot treatment. Applying spot treatments at this stage ensures that the active ingredients can directly target the problem areas without interference from other skincare products.

Common spot treatments include:

• Salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide are excellent choices for treating acne and breakouts.
• On the other hand, hydroquinone or Niacinamide can help fade dark spots and discoloration.

Step 6: Moisturizer

Moisturizers act as sealants that lock in all the goodness from your previous steps. They hydrate, strengthen your skin barrier, and keep everything working beneath the surface. However, moisturizers come with different ingredients designed for specific skin types:

You should use:

• Gel moisturizer if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
• Cream moisturizer if you have normal to dry skin.
• Rich balms if you have extra dry or sensitive skin.

Be sure to switch to a heavier moisturizer during the cold season to protect your skin from the winter dryness.

Step 7: Facial Oil (Optional)

Facial oils are like a protective blanket for your skin. They lock in moisture and prevent water loss, making them especially helpful in dry climates or during the winter.

However, always apply facial oil after your moisturizer, not before. Oil can block lighter products from penetrating if applied too early. If your skin feels too oily, mix a drop or two into your moisturizer for a lightweight boost.

Step 8: Sunscreen (Morning Only)

Sunscreen is non-negotiable year-round since it’s your ultimate shield against harmful UV rays and premature aging. No matter how many steps are in your routine, sunscreen should always be your last layer in the morning.

Apply a nickel-sized amount to your face and neck, reapplying every two hours if you are outside. Typically, SPF 30 sunscreen is more than enough. However, if you spend too much time outdoors, use at least SPF 50 or higher quality sunscreen.

H2: Always Balance Your Skincare Routine 

If you love using multiple products, it can be tempting to pile them all on at once. But more isn't necessarily always better. Overloading your skin can lead to irritation, especially if you use potent actives like retinol or exfoliating acids.

So, when layering products, be sure to: 

• Try to switch between active ingredients every other day. For example, you can use retinol one night and exfoliating acids the next.
• Start slow with new products, especially strong ones, to see how your skin reacts.
• Keep your routine simple on days when your skin feels irritated or overworked.
• Adjust your skincare routine based on the weather, season, and environmental factors.
• Use as little as possible, especially serums and treatments. Overloading can waste products and irritate your skin.

H2: Final Thoughts

With these tips, you can simplify your skincare routine and get the most out of it. Feel free to modify this routine or create the one that works for your unique skin. The key is to understand how each product works. So, start with the basics, listen to your skin, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find your perfect lineup.

Totality Skincare is here to keep your skincare going. Explore our skin care products, from eye creams and moisturizers to cleaners and toners, now.