As the array of skincare products continues to expand, the process of properly layering them can become increasingly perplexing. The key to a successful skincare routine lies in simplicity, devoid of any unnecessary gimmicks.
Properly layering skincare products is essential to maximize their effectiveness and ensure your skin receives the full benefits of each product. For example, applying a moisturizer before sealing it in with an emollient helps to lock in moisture and maintain skin hydration. Proper layering can also create a protective barrier, shielding the skin from environmental stressors and reducing the risk of irritation. As a result, you can effectively address the following issues:
- eczema
- psoriasis
- dermatitis
- rashes
- fine lines
- sensitivity
- inflammation
- redness
- dull complexion
- uneven skin tone
But, before delving into a comprehensive skincare routine that outlines the precise sequence for product layering and introduces Dames & Dimes products, it's essential to acquaint yourself with three pivotal moisturising ingredients. This knowledge will not only revolutionize your perception of skincare products but also enrich your understanding of the layering process.
1. Humectants - examples include hyaluronic acid, panthenol and glycerin. These grab onto water on your skin and keep it hydrated. Humectants are found in many water based lotions, creams and gels and should be applied to damp skin after cleansing. Skin can become dehydrated without humectants.
2. Emollients - examples include shea butter, jojoba oil, squalane (I loveeee these ingredients and use them extensively in my oil based formulas). These sink beautifully into the skin and replace your skins natural oils to smoothen the texture of your skin and replenish it with essential fatty acids to keep your skin healthy & youthful. They're recommended for eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.
3. Occlusives - examples include lanolin, petroluem jelly, and beeswax. These are fab and I love to use beeswax & lanolin. They are the superstars that provide a protective layer over your skin to prevent moisture loss. Occlusives are a lot heavier than emollients and should be applied as the last step in your routine.
Okay so now we know what the three moisturising ingredients are, there's one more thing you need to remember when layering skincare:
Apply your skincare products from thinnest to thickest.
So, what does this all mean, exactly?
Consider this: would you apply an oily balm before a thinner, water-based moisturiser? Probably not, as the moisturiser would struggle to penetrate through the oily layer. This is because oil and water simply do not mix.
A skincare routine typically involves applying products in a specific order. You begin with products containing humectants, which are the thinnest and are applied first. Next comes emollient products, followed by occlusive products, which create a protective barrier and are applied last.
By understanding and applying these principles, we can craft the perfect skincare routine to address the various skin concerns I listed above and maintain optimal skin health.
The skincare routine I've developed prioritizes two essential factors.
These are:
1. Ensuring products are layered in the correct order
2. Protecting and preserving your skin barrier.
As a result, your skin not only becomes healthy but also gains a formidable shield against environmental stressors. It retains its moisture and hydration levels, keeping your complexion supple and youthful.
Below, I've provided a link to a video that vividly illustrates the disparity between skin with a robust, intact barrier and one where the skin barrier has been compromised. It underscores the paramount significance of diligently adhering to a well-structured skincare routine, incorporating products that are layered correctly for optimal results.
The visual disparities are striking. Well-hydrated skin is not only smooth to the touch but also has a velvety softness, displaying a more uniform skin tone. By implementing the skincare routine outlined below, you can achieve these results for yourself.
The before-and-after photo below also serves as a vivid illustration of this transformation. Skin that receives effective protection and optimal hydration through correct skincare layering, will manifest as visibly smoother, brighter, and with reduced signs of fine lines and wrinkles. It's amazing what a straightforward skincare routine, centered on the essentials and applied in the right order, can achieve for your skin's overall health and appearance.
So now onto the routine!
Take a look at the routine below that details how to layer your skincare products in the correct order based on the principles outlined above. I've included Dames & Dimes products as examples of what you can use on your skin to perform each step.
Final thoughts
You might be wondering why I haven't recommended a specific skincare routine for acne just yet. The reason is that active acne, especially cystic acne, often requires a different approach compared to the skin issues I've previously mentioned. I firmly believe that active ingredients, such as tretinoin, play a pivotal role in effectively managing this condition
Comments
How long do you leave each cream/balm to soak in before applying next one?
I contacted Charla when I was at an absolute loss with my facial skin. I’ve tried countless of natural skincare brands and nothing would soak into my skin. My skin would feel irritated and tacky, and I’d wake up with such dry patches on my cheeks which itched into my day. I mentioned all of this to Charla and she immediately knew the issue, explaining how what I was using contained oils that were too heavy for my skin. She told me about the QV cream and the formula in this article. I’ve been following it for a week or two now and my face is as soft as a baby’s. I can’t thank Charla enough! If it helped my skin (which is so so sensitive) it can help any ones!
So interesting! Thank you!!