Skincare is an essential everyday practice that helps combat skin issues from ageing effects to redness. Whether you have a skincare routine or not, you should. Using the right products can help you achieve your best skin. A few skincare and beauty products could transform your skin, help you look more hydrated, and reverse the signs of ageing (which is sadly something we all have to deal with). 

Using skincare is all well and good. Yet, not many people know how to maximize its benefits. Applying skincare in a certain way and following an effective routine will help you achieve the best results. Here are the steps you should follow for applying your skincare to maximize results. 

The routine that you should apply your skincare will differ depending on the time of day. You should apply skin care twice a day, in the morning and the evening. We will start with the morning routine.

1. Cleanser

The first step in anyone’s skincare routine is a cleanser. Cleanser rids your skincare of bacteria, oil, and grime. You will likely not be wearing makeup in the morning as your skincare should come first. The cleanser is prep to help the skin absorb the following skincare products. 

The most effective cleansers for any skin type are oils. These will ensure not to strip the face of its natural oils and add hydration.

We love balm based cleansers including, Elemis Pro Collagen Cleansing Balm, Magic Apothecary The Green Balm and Charlotte Tilbury Miracle Glow Cleansing Balm.

2. Toner

Toner is a great skincare treatment to prep the skin for the day. They are often gentle on the skin to tone and improve texture. There are some more abrasive toners on the market that are targeted towards specific skin concerns. 

Toners prime your face for the following products and further increase absorption.

3. Serum

Many people get this step confused. It is assumed that moisturizers should go before a serum. However, a serum amps up your skincare as soon as you apply it. They are like a pre moisture boost, which will increase the effects of the moisturizer you use. 

Many people skip serums. They aren’t essential but they will optimize your skincare. Serums will help combat skincare issues such as inflammation and acne, which is an extra step some people need.

If you do not have skincare concerns but would like to use a serum, you could use them every other day when you need an extra boost. 

4. Eye Cream

The first cream-based product to apply is your eye cream. This should always be applied before any other moisturizing product so that it has a chance to absorb and work its magic. 

Eye cream should always be lighter and thinner in consistency than a moisturizer, especially for the morning routine. Thus, the reason an eye cream should be applied first is that thin consistencies cannot penetrate thicker formulas. 

Eye creams will combat dark circles, puffiness, and ageing. They are an essential step for any age and any skin type.

5. Spot treatment

Spot treatments are most commonly used at night so that they have more time to sink in. However, if you plan to not wear makeup, they can be applied in the morning too. They are an especially effective part of the morning routine if you suffer from acne-prone skin.

Always tap the spot treatment in before your moisturiser. Again, they are lighter in consistency and will not be able to penetrate the thicker formula of a moisturizer.

6. Moisturizer

Everyone should be using a moisturiser. For some, this may be the only step you use. It is the most essential skin care product as it aids hydration and restores health and balance in the skin. 

Moisturizers protect your skin barrier, which can aid in improving its appearance and combating issues. 

When you use a moisturizer after all of the other products, it traps them in and enhances their effects.

7. Oil

Facial oils are often something people are scared of. However, they should be used in full force due to their amazing benefits. Not only do that boost hydration but it also works to repair the skin. They should always be applied on top of moisturizers so that they do not become trapped. Oils can penetrate other products to help them work more effectively. Furthermore, they can fade quickly so that they do not leave behind a residue but help your skin. 

Oils are great for dry skin as much as oily skin. They won’t make your skin more oily. Instead, they will improve softness and smoothness.

8. SPF

SPF is a step that everyone should include. It is always the last step of the morning skincare routine so that it works to its maximum potential. 

SPF protects the skin from sun damage and UV rays. It helps to slow ageing and prevent skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation and poor texture. 

A minimum of SPF 15 should be used. It is recommended to use SPF 50 for maximum protection. 

The additional evening step

There is some additional step in the evening skincare routine to include. Overnight, the body and skin repair themselves. Thus, using certain products in the evening will aid in better skin and maximum results.

One step to remove for the evening is SPF, as it won’t be necessary when you are in bed. 

A step to change for the evening routine is the facial oil. Instead of oil, you should use a retinoid. A retinoid is a vitamin A product that contains retinol, a product to help with cell turnover. This will reduce the speed of ageing and combat skin issues such as acne. 

Retinol products can also reduce the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and breakouts. Whether or not you have skincare concerns, it can help maintain healthy skin and reduce the risk of developing such issues. 

To maximize the potential of your skincare, ensure to apply it in these steps. Applying them correctly will enhance their benefits and help to achieve the best skin. Although you might not think you need these steps, they will aid in better skin and you will see a huge difference after just a few weeks. It is a great way to combat issues and reduce the signs of ageing.