One of the most important points in the use of skincare products is applying the products in the right order. In this way, the effectiveness of the used skincare products can be increased, and the skin barrier can be protected. Today, as the number of products used in skincare routines increases, the importance of the correct order becomes as important as the ingredients used. According to Medical Aesthetic Specialists and Dermatologists, applying skin products in the wrong order can damage the absorption of serums. The effect of active ingredients can be lost, and the skin barrier can be damaged. In skincare, products should basically be applied in an order progressing from the lightest texture to the most intense form. Medical Aesthetic Doctor Dr. Lida Çiteli, who serves her patients in Istanbul, explained for you in what order skin products should be applied.
Basic Application Rule in Skincare: From Light to Intense
The way to simplify the order in skincare is to proceed from light to intense. Water-based and thin-textured products are absorbed faster by human skin. In contrast, more intense and oil-based products create a protective layer on the skin surface. Therefore, light-structured products should be at the bottom, and intense and oil-based products should be on the top layer. Otherwise, heavy-structured products can prevent water-based and light-structured products, that is, serums and other active ingredients, from penetrating the skin.
Morning Skincare Routine: In What Order Should Products Be Used?
When applying the morning skincare routine, we must not forget that our skin needs to be protected against environmental factors during the day. Therefore, the principles of cleansing, moisturizing, and protection against the sun should be followed in ordering the products. It can start with cleaning the dirt and sebum accumulated on our skin during the night, and then toners that will regulate the skin's pH balance can be used. Then, antioxidant, anti-spot, and moisturizing serums that will support the skin against free radicals can be used. Subsequently, since the eye area is thinner structured and sensitive, special products can be applied to this region. Finally, the morning routine can be completed by using a moisturizer to preserve the skin's humidity and applying sun protection products.
Evening Skincare Routine: Correct Product Order
To repair the destruction caused by dirt, makeup residues, and environmental factors our skin is exposed to during the day, the evening skincare routine should start with a deep cleaning, and products that will support the skin's repair mechanism should be highlighted. Skin pores should be purified from residues by applying double cleansing. Afterward, you can soothe your skin using a toner. Then, retinol, acid, or repairing serums can be applied in the evening routine. Using eye contour cream in the evening routine ensures our sensitive eye area is supported throughout the night. Finally, moisturizer and night cream can be applied to support the skin's renewal process.
How Long Should You Wait Between Skincare Products?
It is generally beneficial to wait about 30 seconds to a minute between products while applying them in the correct order. Because during this time, the product can be easily absorbed by the skin. Especially when serums with active ingredients are applied, it is necessary to observe how the skin reacts. Therefore, using skincare products one after another in a hurry can impair absorption.
Why Is It Important to Apply Skincare Products in the Correct Order?
Using skincare products in the correct order is necessary to provide maximum benefit from the products used. Every skincare product has a different function and demonstrates unique absorption by the skin. When products are applied in the wrong order, it may become difficult for active components to affect the skin and may reduce the effect of the products used. It can even cause the skin barrier to be damaged in the long run. When dermatological studies are evaluated, correct ordering of products ensures the preservation of the skin's moisture balance. It prevents the risk of the skin experiencing sensitivity. It supports skin health in the long run.
Does Product Order Change According to Skin Type?
Basically, the order is determined according to the functions of the products. However, your skin type determines the content of the products you use. That is, if you have oily skin, the skincare products you prefer should be light-structured and water-based. If you have dry skin, you need to prioritize more intense moisturizers. People with sensitive skin should reduce the number of products.