Did you know that the order in which you apply your face products can increase or decrease their efficacy, making or breaking your entire skincare regimen?
The truth is: following the correct steps really matter if you want your products to have an impact.
So, whether you use three basic products (like cleanser, toner, and moisturizer), or if you have a more complex routine that includes blue clay for skin, make sure you’re applying everything in the correct order.
Why? It doesn’t matter what products you use if they aren’t penetrating your skin.
Follow these five steps below to make sure you’re doing it right.
Step 1: Cleanse Your Skin
Your skincare routine should begin with a cleanser because clean skin is the foundation for every other step. When you cleanse your face, you remove impurities, makeup, residue, dead skin cells, and dirt.
When choosing your cleanser, be sure to use one that’s compatible with your skin type. Cleansers usually come in two forms: water-based and oil-based. Generally, water-based cleansers contain surfactants, while oil-based cleansers are designed to dissolve the oils on your skin.
You can use an oil-based cleanser, a water-based cleanser, or both – this is called the “double cleansing method.”
Step 2: Apply Toner
Toners rebalance your skin’s PH by removing residual dirt after cleansing and adding hydration. Toners also make pores appear less prominent because they wipe away the accumulated dead skin cells around your pores. Avoid using toners that contain high levels of alcohol, and skip this step if you have very dry skin.
You can apply toner in two ways – either by sprinkling a small amount in your hands and tapping it directly on your face or by using a toner-saturated cotton pad.
Step 3: Apply Eye Cream
Because your eyes’ skin is thinner and more delicate than any other area on your face, it’s highly prone to puffiness, dark rings, and wrinkles.
Although a high-quality eye cream can help the skin around your eyes look smoother, brighter, and firmer, it won’t eliminate the normal signs of aging.
To apply eye cream, dab a small amount of the product onto your ring finger and gently tap it around your eyes.
Bear in mind that this step isn’t necessary if you use a moisturizer that’s suitable for the delicate skin around your eyes.
Step 4: Apply Light Face Oil
The general rule for any skincare routine is the more lightweight the product is, the earlier it should be applied.
Lightweight facial oils should be applied before your primary moisturizer. They are excellent if you have dry, dehydrated, or flaky skin because they lock in moisture.
Apply light oil by squeezing a few drops on your fingertips, then rub them together to warm the oil with your body heat. Once the oil has become warmer and runnier, gently dab it onto your face. Give the oil time to penetrate your skin before applying sunscreen.
Avoid using oils on your face if you are prone to breakouts or have naturally oily skin.
Step 5: Moisturize
Moisturizer is designed to soothe and soften your skin. If your skin is naturally dry or you have combination skin, choose a balm or thick cream. If you have naturally oily skin, moisturizing gels and fluids are a better option.
To apply moisturizer, warm a pea-sized amount in your hands. When applying it to your face, focus on your cheeks first – then apply it all over with broad, upward strokes.
