How to Layer Skincare for Maximum Results | A Step-by-Step Guide

The order in which you apply skincare products during your daily regimen or routine might not seem like a big deal, but it can actually make a huge difference in the way your products are absorbed and in how they interact with each other.

Following some guidelines on how to layer your skincare can ensure that the products you choose for your particular skin type and problems aren’t going to waste; plus, correctly layering your products in the right order, from cleanser to exfoliant to moisturizer (and everything in between!) makes certain your skin is absorbing them all to maximum efficiency!

Below is Bellecôte’s best practice order on how to layer your skincare products to achieve maximum results:

Cleanse Your Skin 

The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing. Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin. This will prepare your skin for the rest of your products and help them absorb better. It’s always hard to remove all of your makeup, so when you apply your cleanser, let it sit on your skin to soak in for a minute. Remove with room temperature water.

Use a Toner 

After cleansing, apply a toner to help balance your skin's pH levels and prepare it for the rest of your products. Toners can also help hydrate and soothe your skin.

Apply Serum

Serums are lightweight products that contain a high concentration of active ingredients. Apply your serums in order of thinnest to thickest consistency, starting with water-based serums and ending with oil-based serums. This will help each product absorb better and maximize its effectiveness.

Here are some popular serums and their appropriate order of application:

• Vitamin C serum: Apply after toner and before moisturizer. Vitamin C serums help brighten skin tone, fade dark spots, and protect skin from environmental damage.
• Hyaluronic acid serum: Apply after toner and before moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid serums help hydrate skin and plump up fine lines and wrinkles.
• Retinol serum: Apply after toner and before your night moisturizer. Retinol serums help boost collagen production, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin texture.
• Niacinamide serum: Apply after toner and before moisturizer. Niacinamide serums help reduce inflammation, brighten skin tone, and improve acne-prone skin.

Moisturize

After applying your serums, apply a moisturizer to help lock in moisture and provide hydration to your skin. Choose a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type and concerns.

Here are some popular moisturizers and their appropriate order of application:

• Gel moisturizer: Apply after serums and before sunscreen. Gel moisturizers are lightweight and perfect for oily or acne-prone skin.
• Lotion moisturizer: Apply after serums and before sunscreen. Lotion moisturizers are great for normal to combination skin types.
• Cream moisturizer: Apply after serums and before sunscreen. Cream moisturizers are rich and perfect for dry or mature skin.

Apply Eye Cream

Eye creams are specially formulated to address the delicate skin around your eyes. Apply a pea-sized amount of eye cream to your ring finger and gently pat it around your eye area.

BelleCôte Esthetician’s Advice: Always apply the eye cream from outer corner to inner corner of your eyes, NEVER the opposite

Apply Sunscreen

The final step in your skincare routine is applying sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from the damaging effects of UV rays.

Here are some popular sunscreens and their appropriate order of application:

• Chemical sunscreen: Apply after moisturizer and before makeup. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and can be a great option for daily use.
• Physical sunscreen: Apply after moisturizer and before makeup. Physical sunscreens sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays, making them a great option for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Mineral sunscreen: This is the best option for your skin. Mineral sunscreens are  specially formulated from sea minerals and reflect harmful sun rays that enhance the strength of the protection.

Esthetician’s Tips for Layering Skincare

• Wait a few minutes between each step to allow each product to fully absorb into your skin.
• Always patch test new products before applying them to your entire face.
• Use products that are suitable for your skin type and concerns.
• Be gentle when applying your products, especially around your eye area.
• Incorporate new products slowly to avoid irritation or breakouts.

The Takeaway

Layering your skincare products in the right order is essential for achieving healthy, glowing skin. By following this step-by-step guide and incorporating these tips, you can maximize the effectiveness of your products and achieve the best results possible. Remember to be patient, consistent, and gentle with your skin, and you'll be on your way to achieving your skincare goals.

Bellecôte’s favorite regimen, in the proper order our estheticians recommend:

Normal to dry

Marine cleanser

Marine toner

Vitamin C-3 Serum 

Day Light Moisturiser 

Double Sun Protection  cream 

Oily-Combination 

Marine Volcanic Mud cleanser

Azelaic Toner

Vitamin C-3 Serum

Marine Moisture Gel

Double Sun Protection Cream

See Bellecôteparis.com for regimens for all skin types!