As the seasons change and you start to swap those sun hats for cozy sweaters, your skincare routine might be calling for a seasonal update of its own. But before you reach for that rich moisturizer or repair serum, let’s dive into our second edition of Clean Club Academy: Skincare Layering 101. 

The secret to healthier skin isn't slathering on every product you own. Whether your routine is 3 steps or 10+, layering your products correctly ensures that you reap all of the skin-loving benefits your favorite products boast.

 

The Basics:

• Layer from thinnest to thickest: Always start with your lightest products (think: toners and serums), and gradually layer on your heavier ones, to avoid pilling and ensure proper absorption.
• Water before oil: Let those water-based products sink into the skin before sealing the deal with your oil-based products.
• Wait time between layers: Allow each product to absorb before applying the next. Good rule of thumb? 30 seconds to 1 minute between layers.
• Less is more: Applying incompatible or unnecessary products will only lead to pilling. Stick to simple, intentional, active-packed skincare lines.

 

The Layering Lowdown: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Glow 

 

Step 1: Cleanse - Set the stage

Remove any makeup, sunscreen, or dirt from your skin to create a clean canvas that allows the products in your routine to effectively work their magic. Choose a gentle cleanser that respects your skin’s natural pH balance without stripping away essential oils. For those who wear makeup or sunscreen daily, consider double cleansing by starting with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and sunscreen, and following with a water-based cleanser to purify your skin.

 

Step 2: Tone - Balance is key

Toning is like hitting the reset button for your skin’s pH, as toners help restore your skin’s natural balance and prime it for the absorption of active ingredients. Pat on a hydrating toner or toning mist to prep your skin for the next steps in your routine. Remember the bit about “picking a cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin?”. If you aced that portion, you may even be able to skip this step altogether!

 

Step 3: Serums - The power players

Now that your skin is clean and prepped, it’s time to layer on your serums to deliver a punch of actives deep within your skin. In the morning, reach for a Vitamin C Serum to brighten, hydrate and even your skin tone. At night, opt for a Vitamin A Serum with retinoids to tackle fine lines and discoloration while you sleep.

 

Step 4: Eye Creams - Pack your bags (and wrinkles too)

An effective eye cream is formulated with ingredients specifically targeted to treat dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines. Applying your favorite eye cream early in your routine ensures that the active ingredients can penetrate deep within your skin and create a barrier for the delicate eye area, while applying your eye cream later in your routine may push other earlier products into the eye area and cause irritation.

Pro tip: Use your ring finger to gently pat the cream around the orbital bone before moving on to your moisturizer.

 

Step 5: Moisturizers - Seal the deal

It’s time to hydrate, and seal in your previous layers, with a moisturizer!

Your moisturizer’s #1 job: Create a barrier that locks in the powerful benefits of the serums and treatments you’ve applied so far.

 

Step 6: Facial Oils - The glow-getter

Oils can provide deep nourishment, enhance your skin’s barrier and give you that coveted dewy glow, but it’s important to remember that your facial oil is likely your densest product and takes the longest to absorb - making it one of your last (but definitely not least) steps. 

For drier skin: Apply the oil directly to your skin following your moisturizer.

For oily or combination skin: Mix a drop or two into your moisturizer.

 

Step 7: Sunscreen (AM Only)

We’ve saved one of our favorites for last! SPF is most effective when applied after other products, so to ensure you’re protected against harmful UV rays (and effectively preventing sun damage), stick your sunscreen in the final slot of your routine each AM.

Pro tip: opt for a mineral sunscreen that provides immediate sun protection.

 

Layering Don’ts:

• Don’t overload on products: More isn’t necessarily better. Keep your routine simple and intentional. 
• Don’t rush: Enjoy the ritual and give each product its moment to shine (and sink in).
• Don’t skip SPF: Yes, even in the fall and winter months! UV rays don’t take seasonal vacays. 

Looking for clean, dermatologist recommended skincare products to incorporate in your routine? Build your morning or night routine here.