Skincare is one thing that can be downright difficult, and there’s no shame in saying it. From not knowing how to even pronounce the latest must-have ingredient, to your skin changing season after season. How are we meant to keep up?
But then it gets a little more confusing. What to put where and when? If you like to use ten products, or just a trusty two or three, one thing we can all benefit from is knowing what order your skincare products should go in. So, let’s get into it.
Step 1: Cleanser
If you do anything at all, let it be cleansing (and your SPF, but let’s talk about that later). No, scratch that. Double-cleansing. Let your first cleanse take off your makeup, and any dirt from throughout the day (you’d be surprised). Then, your second cleanse should make sure your face is completely spick and span and should cleanse your actual skin.
Step 2: Toner
Really, this may be an optional step, but it really depends on you. Some people live for a gorgeous toner, some can live without. But if you are in the toner bracket, then let it be your step two. If you’re not gone on toners just yet, treat yourself to a hydrating one to start off with, everyone needs a little more hydration, after all.
Step 3: Eye Cream
Eye creams are another product that people tend to either love or not bother with at all. It depends on which one you’re using, of course. But also where it lands in your skincare routine. Let it work its magic before you go in with any other products that are more active, like serums or oils.
Step 4: Serums
Ah, serums. Where were we before our little saviours came along? Basically, they’re the most important step in your skincare routine, because they have the most active ingredients. After you toner, go in with your serum. You can even stretch to two serums if that’s what your skin needs. Any more than that is just overload.
Step 5: Oils
This is where some people tend to fall out. Before your moisturiser? After your moisturiser? Well, we’re here to tell you that you should usually apply facial oils before your moisturiser, but it’s important to note that this can differ. Really, it all comes down to what the oil tells you to do. Yep, read the directions at the back, just in case! Some oils are strong enough to get through a moisturiser, some just are not.
Step 6: Moisturiser
Now it’s time to trap all that goodness in with a moisturiser, to really seal the deal. Opt for a light and breezy one during the day, with an SPF if you tend to forget that step. And something a little thicker for night time.
There’s sometimes a couple more products thrown into the mix, like additional SPF (as long as you’re wearing your SPF every single day) or a spot treatment. But stick to this little routine for the most part, and your skin will just love you.