Thin before – Thick after
This is a very basic skincare rule that everyone should know, specifically:
– Toner is usually used first (unless using an activating serum for the skin).
– Apply serum.
– Apply a different moisturizer.
It’s recommended to apply the thinner type first and then the thicker type. Try using a serum that contains the antioxidant vitamin C to protect the skin. If you don’t understand how to use active ingredients properly, it’s best to follow the above method. The watery form is the thinnest, followed by liquid, slightly thicker is serum, even thicker is lotion, then gel, cream, and finally oil.
Take a 2-minute break between steps to allow the skincare products to be absorbed evenly and avoid clogging. If you don’t have much time in the morning, you can shorten your skincare routine. For sensitive skin that may react to active ingredients in serums, you can reverse the order of skincare steps. Note that in hot weather, do not apply oil-based products all over the face, only apply them to areas prone to dryness or flaking.
Water-based before – Oil-based after
Water-based and oil-based products have different functions in skincare, and neither type is more necessary than the other. Water, collagen, and elastin in the dermis layer provide elasticity and a moist feeling to the skin. Oil in the epidermis layer acts as a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss, helping to lock in moisture, and providing a soft and smooth feeling to the skin.
If you only use hydrating products and remove the oil on the skin, the skin will lose an important protective component.
However, when using water-based and oil-based products, it’s important to use water-based products first and then followed by oil-based products for better absorption and maintaining moisture in the skin.
Low pH before – High pH after
According to research, the ideal pH level for the skin is around 5.5. This pH level helps the skin appear radiant, and the acid mantle on the skin will function effectively.
Skincare products usually have a pH level ranging from 4.5 to 6.2. Choosing products with a pH level that is too high is not beneficial. For those who have a skincare routine using multiple products, it’s recommended to use low pH products first and then high pH products.
You can follow the usual skincare order with the following steps: BHA/AHA – vitamin C – Serum Nia – Retinoids – Moisturizer. In the case of easily irritated skin, you can apply HA first and then vitamin C – Retinol.
Treatment before and Moisturizer after
This is a step to enhance skincare or advanced skincare. The products used should include vitamins and acids such as AHA/BHA, retinol, etc. to stimulate cell turnover and improve skin treatment.
In this skincare routine, applying moisturizer is always the last step. Applying moisturizer first will create a thick layer that makes it difficult for other active ingredients to penetrate the skin. However, for those who are new to using retinol/tretinoin, you can reverse it and use moisturizer first.
Applying thinner products first allows them to be absorbed more effectively, and the thicker products help lock in the moisture and active ingredients.
The ideal order is: Toner, Serum (with antioxidants like Vitamin C), Moisturizer. For sensitive skin, you can reverse the order and start with moisturizer first. Always use water-based products before oil-based ones.
Water-based products provide hydration and a moist feeling to the skin, while oil-based products act as a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and providing a soft, smooth texture. Both are essential, and using them in the correct order ensures better absorption and maintains skin moisture.
The ideal pH level for the skin is around 5.5. Using low pH products first helps maintain this level, ensuring your skin appears radiant and healthy. The recommended order is BHA/AHA, Vitamin C, Serum, Retinoids, and then Moisturizer.
Treatments, such as products containing vitamins and acids like AHA/BHA or retinol, should be used before the moisturizer step. These treatments enhance skincare by stimulating cell turnover and improving overall skin health.