The correct way to layer skincare products

So you’ve got your skin care products sorted – from your trusty skin-clearing cleanser through to your super-hydrating SPF moisturiser, you’re set. And let’s face it, you’ve probably forked out a hefty amount of dosh for your perfect skin care goodies, so the last thing you want to do is use them incorrectly.

This is when the art of layering skin care products becomes essential – especially when your winter skin care routine features additional hydrating products like oils and heavier moisturisers.

The general rule of thumb is to apply from the thinnest product to the thickest, and to let each product sink into the skin completely before applying the next. Follow our guide for making the most of your skin care by layering like a pro.
 

Step #1: cleanse

It might sound obvious that cleansing is the first step, but its one of the most vital steps to ensuring your skin has been rinsed of dirt, oils and impurities before you start layering active or hydrating ingredients.

Try: Environ Skincare AVST Cleansing Lotion

Step #2: tone/mist

Post-cleansing, spritz a hydrating mist or use a cotton pad to swipe a balancing toner across your complexion to allow your pores to draw up and seal in extra moisture.

Try: Mieux Derma Herbal Astringent Toner

Step #3: correcting/spot treatment

Whether your concern is anti-ageing, sensitivity, break-outs, enlarged pores, or pigmentation, grab your problem-targeting product and apply it to your affected areas ASAP so it can get hard at work on your prepped skin.

Try: Shu Uemura Red:Juvenus Roll-Away Instant Eye Fatigue Corrector

Step #4: serum

Depending on your skin’s needs and concerns, serums range in texture – from liquids to much thicker gels – however they’re packed with powerful ingredients and, once they’ve sunk into the skin, make the perfect primer for your next few layers.

Try: AWE Cosmeceuticals amala Clearing Serum

Step #5: oil

Smooth a few drops of your favourite facial oil between your fingertips, massage all over your face, and watch your skin drink up that liquid gold!

Try: Shanga Calming Infusion Oil

Step #6: moisturiser

Think of your moisturiser as you think of your top coat of nail polish – it seals in all of your hard work and protects it all day long. Oh, and it slathers your skin with hydration too!

Try: Organi Day Cream

Step #7: sunscreen

Just because it’s chilly and overcast outside doesn’t mean you can skimp on sun protection! If your moisturiser doesn’t contain any SPF, finish off with a lightweight sunscreen specifically for your face so it won’t clog your pores or leave any oily residue.

Try: ModelCo Daily Face Mattifying Sunscreen and Lip Balm SPF 50+

How do you layer your skin care? Do you follow the routine above?