To Layer Or Not To Layer
Now I know it can be really confusing when there are like a gazillion skincare products on the markets. From Micellar Water to a balmy cleanser, serums with like so many different ingredients, a day routine and a night routine. It can be overwhelming plus also really expensive. The key is to try keep it simple unless you are like me and love to layer. Having a morning and night time routine is important and also the order in which you apply.
Why do I need to have an order with my routine?
Well for the products to be effective you really want to go with. Only a very small amount of key ingredients can penetrate the skin, even when perfectly formulated and perfectly applied. If you don’t apply products in the correct order, you will not see the best results from your skin care regimen.
Here is how to layer:
An easy rule of thumb to follow is to apply your products with the thinnest consistency to thickest, or from liquid to cream. You also want to first use the products with the ingredients that are most important to penetrate into the skin (like antioxidants in serums) and finish with the products that need to sit on top of the skin (like emollients in moisturisers).
Morning Routine:
1. Cleanser: Apply your cleanser depending on your skin type. Wash your face with warm water or I like to user a music cloth so its gentle on the skin.
2. Exfoliate: Remember this only needs rot be done twice a week. You have to remove the dead skin from your face. Without this step it doesn't matter how much product you apply it just won't get into the skin's dermis. Remember go for gentle exfoliator so that skin isn't irritated.
3. Mask: I like to mask 3 times a week and mix up depending on what is happening to my skin. Whether is a sheet mask that you apply and leave onto the skin or an application one that you take off its really up to you.
4. Toner/Face Mist : Toners or face are amazing as these days you have ones that not only help with pores but are also infused with antioxidants. As well as tonics that gently exfoliate and leave skin looking so radiant. I also love a face mist that adds extra hydration even before I start with the serums.
5. Serum: Serums are super-concentrated, nutrient-dense treatments that address specific concerns, so it’s better to keep them as close to the skin as possible. An antioxidant serum is definitely what you need and one that is multi tasking is always a winner. You want to look at ingredients that protect against external stress and pollution as well as UV/UVB. There are so many on the market with so many amazing ingredients. I will definitely be posting on what you need to be looking for in a serum.
6. Eye Cream: this step can't be missed and its one I am very strict about. This is the area that gets fine lines, loses suppleness and can get really dehydrated the list goes on. Regular use of eye cream over time will keep the eyelid skin elastic and can improve or prevent against some fine lines or collagen loss.
7. Spot Treatment: If you struggle with spots or acne breakouts here is where you can add in the treatment. I like to apply on the areas just where I need it. Plus I do love a pimple path which you leave on at night.
8. Moisturiser: Even if you have oily skin you need a moisturiser. This locks in all the ingredients and protects the skin's barrier. Most of us do need extra hydration after the havoc that sun, weather and harsh chemicals can really damage the skin. The best time to apply a moisturizer is while the skin is still damp, so the sooner you go through applying your serum and treatment, the sooner you’re able to lock in much needed hydration with your moisturiser.
9. Sunscreen: You can't leave this top out ever. I made the biggest mistake of not applying or reapplying thought there day when I moved to SA. Now I struggle with pigmentation and its a tough one to get rid of. You want a sunscreen that has moisturising benefits.
Night Routine:
1. Cleansing Balm: I love a balm cleanser as it really gets rid of all the dirt, pollution and makeup. Plus skin is so nourished and hydrated.
3. Eye Cream: Remember to be gentle when applying. Light fingers here people. I love to really hydrate so choose one that's really going to nourish.
4. Serum: At night I apply my Retinol serum here and layer in some others but this tis the best time to get the Retinol on the skin. Remember thickest to thinnest when applying serums
5. Moisturiser/ Night cream: moisturisers or night creams are generally thicker and heavier and designed to be absorbed over the course of several hours. Moisturiser especially the heavier ones used at night, create a protective coating on the skin to prevent water evaporation while you sleep. Maintaining a high water content in the skin is key for healing and maintaining healthy skin. If you are using the right moisturizer, it should be your last step because nothing is going to get through it. If your skin is on the dry side, you may want to add a face oil before applying your night cream.
