Skip Ahead:
When it comes to skincare, the way you layer your products can make all the difference in achieving glowing, healthy skin. Whether it’s your morning routine to prepare for the day ahead or your nighttime ritual to replenish and restore, applying your skincare in the right order ensures maximum absorption and effectiveness.
At Let's Face It Med Spa, based in the heart of Cookeville, Tennessee, we believe in empowering you with the right skincare knowledge so that you can achieve the best results at home. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown on how to properly layer your morning and nighttime skincare routines for optimal results.
While this guide provides a helpful framework, it's important to remember that everyone's skin is unique. What works for one person may not work for another, as skin types, concerns, and sensitivities vary greatly. Factors like your skin’s oil production, texture, and any specific issues (like acne or hyperpigmentation) can influence the products you should use and the order in which you apply them.
For a routine tailored to your specific needs, it’s always a good idea to consult with a skincare professional. Schedule a free consultation with us here.
Why is Layering Important?
Layering your skincare products in the correct sequence is crucial for ensuring each product penetrates your skin efficiently.
For example, lighter products, such as serums, need to be applied before heavier ones like moisturizers to fully absorb into your skin. Incorrect layering can block certain products from working their magic, leaving your skin undernourished.
Morning Skincare Routine: The Basics
Your morning routine should focus on protecting your skin from external factors like UV rays, pollution, and harsh weather. Here's how to layer it step by step:
Cleanser (Layer 1)
Start with a gentle cleanser to wash away any oil, sweat, or impurities that accumulated overnight. Clean skin is a perfect base for the next products.
Toner (Layer 2)
A toner helps balance your skin's pH and preps your face for better absorption of the subsequent products. Choose a hydrating or clarifying toner based on your skin type.
Serum (Layer 3)
This is the powerhouse of your skincare routine. Use a lightweight serum packed with active ingredients like vitamin C to brighten and protect your skin from environmental stressors.
Moisturizer (Layer 4)
After applying your serum, lock in hydration with a moisturizer suitable for your skin type. This ensures your skin stays hydrated throughout the day.
SPF (Layer 5)
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Applying SPF daily, even if you're indoors, helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays, preventing premature aging and sun damage. Follow the directions provided by your SPF
Nighttime Skincare Routine: The Basics
Your evening routine should focus on deep cleansing and nourishment to help your skin repair itself overnight. Here’s the ideal order:
Double Cleanse (Layer 1)
At night, it's essential to double cleanse. Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess oils. Follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser to clear any remaining impurities.
Toner (Layer 2)
Similar to your morning routine, applying a toner after cleansing helps to refresh and prime your skin for better absorption of the treatment products.
Targeted Serum (Layer 3)
Nighttime is the best time to use a serum rich in ingredients like retinol or hyaluronic acid. These powerful ingredients work to boost cell turnover and deeply hydrate your skin while you sleep.
Moisturizer (Layer 4)
Your skin repairs itself while you rest, so applying a rich moisturizer helps keep your skin hydrated and aids in the regeneration process.
Eye Cream (Layer 5)
The delicate skin around your eyes needs extra attention. Use a hydrating eye cream to minimize puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
Drug Store & Medical-Grade Product Recommendations:
At Let's Face It Med Spa, we recommend a range of products to suit your skincare needs. For affordable, effective options, brands like CeraVe and The Ordinary offer great results for daily care. For advanced, medical-grade solutions, we proudly offer ZO Skin Health, designed to address deeper concerns like aging and hyperpigmentation.
Whether you're looking for budget-friendly options or clinical-grade products, these recommendations can help you build an effective skincare routine.
Layer 1: Cleanser
Medical Grade: ZO Skin Health Hydrating Cleanser - $49
This gentle cleanser is perfect for dry or sensitive skin types, offering hydration while removing impurities without disrupting the skin’s barrier.
Amazon: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser - $15.48
A cult favorite, this drugstore option is formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help restore the skin’s natural barrier and lock in moisture.
Layer 2: Toner
Medical Grade: ZO Skin Health Complexion Renewal Pads - $59
These pads exfoliate the skin gently while keeping it hydrated and balanced, perfect for oily or acne-prone skin.
Amazon: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution - $9.99
A powerful yet affordable option that helps to brighten, exfoliate, and tone, promoting smoother and more radiant skin.
Layer 3: Serum
Medical Grade: ZO Skin Health Daily Power Defense - $173
This antioxidant-packed serum repairs the skin's barrier while defending against environmental damage, great for anti-aging.
Ulta: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% - $6
This affordable serum is excellent for controlling oil production, reducing the appearance of blemishes, and improving overall skin texture.
Layer 4: Moisturizer
Medical Grade: ZO Skin Health Renewal Crème - $120
This luxurious moisturizer provides deep hydration and helps improve skin elasticity, ideal for dry or aging skin.
Amazon: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream - $13.68
A dermatologist-recommended option that’s packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore and maintain the skin’s moisture barrier.
Layer 5: SPF (Morning) / Eye Cream (Night)
Medical Grade: ZO Skin Health Sunscreen + Primer Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 - $67
This product offers sun protection and a silky primer finish, helping your makeup glide on smoothly while protecting your skin.
Amazon: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream - $18.49
Formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, this eye cream reduces puffiness, dark circles, and signs of aging without breaking the bank.
SuperGoop: SuperGoop GlowScreen 40 SPF - $38
Formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, this eye cream reduces puffiness, dark circles, and signs of aging without breaking the bank.
Pro Tip: Customize Your Routine Based on Skin Type
Not all products are created equal, and neither are skin types!
If you have oily skin, you may prefer lighter, gel-based moisturizers, while those with dry skin may benefit from richer creams. If you're unsure about what products to use, our specialists at Let's Face It Med Spa can offer personalized skincare consultations.
For a more personalized recommendation, the specialists at Let's Face It Med Spa can guide you based on your unique skin type and concerns! Feel free to contact us today.
What's Your Skin Type?
Each skin type—whether dry, oily, combination, or normal—has unique characteristics and requires different treatments. By understanding your skin type, you can choose products and facials that address your individual concerns, enhance your skin’s health, and achieve the best results. That's why we made it free! Just Answer 10 short questions.
Comments