The Correct Order to Your Skin Care Routine
With all of the skincare products out there, it can get seriously overwhelming to figure out when and in what order to apply all of them. I had to consult our esthetician to get the facts straight.
Why does Order Matter?
So why does it really matter the order in which we put our skin care products on, you ask? According to Chelsea, ZONA Med Spa’s esthetician, “layering the products in order helps for optimal products absorption”. For example, if you put a moisturizer on before a serum, the heavy thick cream of the moisturizer would completely block out the light liquid serum from ever absorbing. This is also why Chelsea said that a good rule of thumb is to layer thin-to-thick or liquid-to-cream.
The Correct Order:
1. Cleanser
Start with a cleanser to remove all makeup, dirt, or oil from your face and neck. A common question we receive is why we have to wash our face in the morning if we just washed at night; and while it is extremely important to wash the day away at night, your skin recovers during the night which means you have more oil and dead skin cells to slough off in the morning. Double cleanse is recommended as well, especially at night. First wash to cleanse the day off and second wash to deep cleanse the skin.
2. Toner
Most people choose to skip toner, however there are new breeds of toner out there designed for multiple purposes. They can act as a delivery system for antioxidants, vitamin B derivatives, and even toning acids. Just make sure you are using a toner, not an astringent! A lot of people believe astringent are just like toners or are toner, however astringents have alcohol in it that will strip your skin. Also double check that you are using a toner that is right for your skin type! Unsure which toner would be best for you? Our estheticians are here to guide you.
3. Serum
Serums are super concentrated so you want them as close to the skin as possible as well. There are a wide range of available ingredients that cater to all different skin needs. If you are using multiple serums, try to apply the ones with thinnest consistency first. Best rule of thumb is thinnest to thickest, clear to colored. So your HA serum will go first followed by your C E Ferulic and then Phyto, for example.
4. Eye Cream
It’s a common misconception that eye creams are only for older people, but it actually couldn’t be more opposite. It’s very important that you use an eye cream twice a day and to start this routine in your early 20’s. This step is number 4 because it is a product that needs to go before your retinol so you don’t end up putting your treatment products around your delicate eye area.
5. Treatment Product
By treatment, we mean any retinols, anti-aging, acne, or any product that is being used as a treatment for a concern. Don’t forget to let your treatment products absorb completely before layering your moisturizer on. I personally like to apply my retinol at night to dry skin after my serums, then brush my teeth to give it a few minutes to absorb. After brushing my teeth typically enough time has passed and I will then apply my moisturizer.
6. Moisturizer
Finally, you are at the last step! Moisturizer is always last so it can lock in moisture. In the morning it’s crucial that you use sunscreen, so if your moisturizer doesn’t already have at least SPF 30 in it, applying a separate SPF product on top of your moisturizer will be the very last step.
To book a skincare consultation with one of our providers call or text us at 480-299-4975 or you can schedule an appointment online!
