When it comes to your daily skincare regime, you’ve probably been using the same order for your products for who-knows-how-long. But did you know that the order in which you put on your products can change how effective they are? When we spend so much money on our skincare regime, there’s nothing more heartbreaking than feeling like our skincare isn’t doing its job. But the reason why your skincare isn’t slaying could simply be because you’re applying your creams in the wrong order. After all, if you’re going to be shelling out money for the best beauty products out there, you might as well be using them correctly, right?
A general rule of thumb when layering products is to work from thin to thick — apply those formulas with a thinner consistency first and follow it up with richer, creamier ones last. (Of course, the most important thing is to ensure your skin is completely clean before you even start applying any). After each layer, give your skin a minute or so to absorb the product. We’re here to break it down and give you a handy cheat sheet on the best way to layer your skincare so that you’ll reap the best benefits:
Layer 1: Cleanser
As the first step of any skincare routine, cleansing should remove stuff like dirt, oil and makeup while also adding a burst of hydration. Laneige Multi Deep-Clean Cleanser compromises of moisturizing botanical cleansing agents to ensure the gentle removal of excess sebum, sunscreen and makeup. Results? Squeaky clean that’s smooth to the touch at the same time.
$36 (was $43), VIIMART.com
Layer 2: Exfoliate
Once your skin is extremely clean, now it’s the time to do any extra cleansing steps in your routine, such as a clay or peel-off mask, or simply exfoliating your skin with Nuxe Gentle Exfoliating Gel. With the natural goodness of lychee and rosewater, the soothing and softening formula works to buff dead skin cells away while eliminating impurities.
$31 (was $39), VIIMART.com
Layer 3: Toner
The proper way to prep your skin for subsequent serums and moisturizers is with a refreshing burst of hydration, like the Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile. Gently removing all traces of grime that your cleanser wouldn’t budge, this alcohol-free toner provides the ultimate comfort for dryness, leaving it thoroughly cleansed and perfectly radiant.
$72 (was $85), VIIMART.com
Layer 4: Serum
Layered underneath a moisturizer, serums are highly concentrated formulas that deliver hydration and glowy benefits deep into skin’s layers. For some, it also helps to treat targeted skin concerns. SK-II R.N.A Power Essence solves some of the most common skin woes, such as enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles, and lack of elasticity.
$180 (was $233), VIIMART.com
Layer 5: Eye Cream
Depending on the formula, your eye cream may look like a serum or a moisturizer. It doesn’t matter — now’s the time to apply it so that it has fewer ‘barriers’ to pass through and can be absorbed more easily. For an all-round protection, we love Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Eye Cream as it illuminates the eye area while preventing early visible signs of aging.’
$69 (was $74), VIIMART.com
Layer 6: Moisturizer
You’re almost there! Once you’ve cleansed, toned and applied a serum, it’s time to lock in all that goodness. But it’s also essential that you choose one with the right formula for your skin type. In Singapore’s humid climate, Herb Farm Light Jojoba Face Cream absorbs quickly to regulate skin’s sebum production, giving skin a smooth and radiant complexion.
$45 (was $49), VIIMART.com
Layer 7: Sunscreen
During daytime, this is the most important step, even during cloudy days. SPF sits on the skin’s surface to act as a protective barrier; so you should always apply it last. Applying a high-quality sunscreen like The History of Whoo Whitening Essence will protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays as it brightens dull skin and correct dark spots.
$60 (was $70), VIIMART.com
