No matter what your skincare goals are, success has one starting place:
A consistent skincare routine.
That is why, in this post, I’m taking you back to the basics and demonstrating exactly what order to use skincare products. With so many options and steps, it’s easy to get confused about what goes on first and what comes next.
But fear not, bestie! Here’s what order to use skincare products, made easy:
Step 1: Cleanser
Like painting, a great skincare routine begins with a clean canvas. Use your cleanser of choice to remove dirt, oil, dead skin, and makeup from your face.
When choosing a cleanser, consider your skin type.—gel or foaming cleansers for oily skin and cream or hydrating cleansers for dry or sensitive skin.
How to do it:
- Wet your face with lukewarm water.
- Apply a dime-sized amount of your chosen cleanser to your fingertips.
- With care, slowly massage the cleanser into your skin in circular motions.
- Rinse off, then gently pat your face dry with a clean, soft towel.
Step 2: Toner
I know you’ve heard about them.
Toners have come a long way from the stern, alcohol-based formulas of the past. Modern toners can hydrate, balance, refresh, and prep your skin for the next steps in your routine.
However, using toner is actually optional! If you don’t have any pressing skincare issues, such as active breakouts or flaky skin, you can skip the toner.
How to do it:
- Dab a tiny amount of toner onto a cotton pad.
- Softly wipe or pat the toner around your face, taking extra care to avoid the eye area.
- Let it absorb for a few moments before moving on.
Step 3: Serum
We love a good serum in this camp.
Serums are concentrated treatments packed with active ingredients that target specific skin concerns, like sun spots, wrinkles, or dullness. If your skincare concerns include aging or extreme dryness, serums are the superheroes of your routine.
How to do it:
- With your fingertips, gently press the serum into your skin, focusing on areas that need extra love.
- Allow the serum to be fully absorbed before applying the next product. If your face feels sticky, you’re not ready.
Step 4: Eye Cream
One thing all humans have in common is that our eyes are padded with delicate skin.
The eyes are often the first spot to show aging. Eye creams can help hydrate, turn back time, drastically brighten, and even reduce puffiness.
Think of eye creams as your secret weapon against tired eyes.
How to do it:
- Using your finger, gently dab the cream around your eye area.
- Always dab to avoid rubbing or pulling on the skin.
Step 5: Moisturizer
Proper hydration is vital for keeping your skin lovely and locking in all the good choices you made in previous steps.
Even if you have oily or combo skin, don’t skip this step – instead, go for a lightweight, mineral oil-free formula.
How to do it:
- Gently massage it into your skin using upward and outward, fan-like motions.
- Don’t skip the neck!
Step 6: Sunscreen
The last step in your routine during the day should always be sunscreen, my friend.
Arming your skin from the brutal sun is crucial in preventing premature aging, sunburn, rashes, and cancer.
How to do it:
- Apply a generous amount of sunscreen, like, really a good amount. Tip: If it doesn’t rub in, you’ve used too much.
- Spread it evenly over your face and neck. Don’t forget the neck.
- Reapply every 1-2 hours if you’re spending time outside or by the pool.
Bonus Step: Night Cream
At night, swap your sunscreen for a nutritious night cream or a soothing sleep mask. These types of skincare products are designed to work while you sleep, supporting your body’s natural repair and regeneration process.
How to do it:
- After applying your serum and eye cream, use a rich ultra-hydrating moisturizer.
- Massage it into your skin using soft, loving, upward motions.
- Let it work its magic overnight.
Final Thoughts
You know I say this every time, but: Remember, consistency is key to good skin. Also sunscreen.
Stick to your routine, listen to your skin, and be kind.
Tell me how you’re building your skincare routine in the comments below. Then, check out other tips, tricks, and truths that I’ve written about natural skincare.
My fav products: Face Toner: Biossance, Moisturizer: Drunk Elephant, Sunscreen: Tizo3
