What is the correct skincare order? As someone who has spent years experimenting with different products and routines, I can understand the confusion that can come with trying to figure out the best way to care for your skin. In this article, I will break down the steps of a proper skincare routine and explain why each step is important.
Cleansing
When it comes to skincare, cleansing is the first and most important step in any routine. It’s essential to remove dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities from your skin to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. I recommend using a gentle cleanser that is suited for your skin type – whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin.
Morning Cleansing
In the morning, a gentle cleanser can help to remove any oils and impurities that have built up overnight. I like to use a foaming cleanser to thoroughly cleanse my skin without stripping it of its natural oils. After cleansing, be sure to follow up with a toner to help balance your skin’s pH levels.
Evening Cleansing
In the evening, it’s crucial to cleanse your skin to remove any makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and pollution that have accumulated throughout the day. I prefer using a gentle cleansing oil or balm to melt away makeup and impurities before following up with a water-based cleanser to provide a deep clean. Double cleansing in the evening can help to ensure that your skin is thoroughly clean before moving on to the next steps in your skincare routine.
Exfoliation
Exfoliation is an essential step in any skincare routine to help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve the overall texture of your skin. However, it’s important to note that over-exfoliating can cause irritation and damage to the skin. I recommend incorporating exfoliation into your routine 1-3 times a week, depending on your skin type and the type of exfoliant you are using.
Physical Exfoliation
Physical exfoliants use granules or particles to manually remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. While physical exfoliation can be effective, it’s important to use gentle motions to avoid damaging the skin. I like to use a gentle scrub with rounded particles to prevent microtears and irritation.
Chemical Exfoliation
Chemical exfoliants use acids like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) to dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores. I prefer using a gentle chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid or salicylic acid to help improve the overall texture of my skin without causing irritation. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product and gradually introduce chemical exfoliants into your routine to prevent over-exfoliation.
Toning
Toning is a step in the skincare routine that often gets overlooked, but it can be beneficial for rebalancing the skin’s pH levels and prepping the skin for the next steps. I recommend using a toner that is alcohol-free and formulated with ingredients that are suited for your skin type.
Balancing pH Levels
Toners can help to balance the skin’s pH levels after cleansing, which can help to prevent dryness, irritation, and breakouts. I like to use a hydrating toner that is formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or rose water to provide an extra boost of hydration to my skin.
Prepping for Serums
Toners can also help to prep the skin for the next steps in your skincare routine, such as serums and treatments. By applying toner before serums, you can help to enhance the absorption of active ingredients and maximize the benefits of your skincare products.
Treatment Serums
Treatment serums are concentrated formulations that are designed to target specific skin concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, aging, or dehydration. I recommend incorporating a treatment serum into your skincare routine to address any specific concerns you may have.
Acne Treatment
If you struggle with acne, a treatment serum that is formulated with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or niacinamide can help to clear up blemishes, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation. I like to apply an acne treatment serum onto any active breakouts or problem areas to help speed up the healing process.
Hydration Boost
For those with dry or dehydrated skin, a hydrating serum that is formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides can help to boost moisture levels and improve the overall hydration of the skin. I like to apply a hydrating serum before moisturizer to provide an extra layer of hydration and prevent dryness.
Moisturizing
Moisturizing is a crucial step in any skincare routine to help retain moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and prevent dryness and irritation. I recommend using a moisturizer that is suited for your skin type – whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin.
Hydration
Moisturizers help to seal in moisture and provide a protective barrier on the skin to prevent transepidermal water loss. I like to use a lightweight gel moisturizer during the day and a richer cream moisturizer at night to provide hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
Sun Protection
Some moisturizers also contain SPF to provide sun protection and prevent UV damage to the skin. I recommend using a separate sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to adequately protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially if you will be spending time outdoors.
Eye Cream
Eye creams are formulated specifically for the delicate skin around the eyes to hydrate, brighten, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. I recommend incorporating an eye cream into your skincare routine to target any specific concerns you may have around the eye area.
Hydration and Brightening
Eye creams can help to hydrate the skin around the eyes and reduce puffiness or dark circles. I like to use an eye cream that is formulated with ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C to help brighten and improve the appearance of my under-eye area.
Anti-Aging
For those concerned with aging, an eye cream that is formulated with peptides, retinol, or antioxidants can help to firm, smooth, and plump the skin around the eyes. I like to apply a pea-sized amount of eye cream using my ring finger to gently pat the product into the skin without tugging or pulling.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the most crucial step in any skincare routine to protect the skin from harmful UV rays, prevent premature aging, and reduce the risk of skin cancer. I recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, rain or shine, to adequately protect your skin from UV damage.
Daily Protection
Sunscreen should be applied as the last step in your skincare routine, after moisturizer and before makeup, to provide a protective barrier against UV rays. I like to use a lightweight sunscreen that is formulated for daily wear to prevent greasiness or white cast on the skin.
Reapplication
It’s essential to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially if you will be spending extended periods outdoors or in direct sunlight. I recommend carrying a travel-sized sunscreen in your bag for easy reapplication every 2 hours to ensure maximum protection against UV damage.
By following these steps in the correct skincare order, you can establish a routine that suits your skin type and addresses any specific concerns you may have. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare, so be patient and give your skin time to adjust to new products or treatments. Ultimately, the best skincare routine is one that works for you and makes you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.