Marcia Kilgore, the founder of Beauty Pie, provides a definitive guide on how to apply skincare products correctly for maximum benefits. She emphasizes the importance of choosing products that target specific skin concerns and adapting them as your skin changes. Starting with the lightest formulas and layering up to the heaviest ensures proper absorption and effectiveness of each product. The general order of application should be cleanser, toner/essence, treatment/mask, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, oil, and SPF, with sunscreen always being the last step.
Kilgore recommends using an essence as a post-cleanse step to nourish, smooth, and pH balance the skin, as well as enhance the performance of other products. Essences like the Japanfusion Hydra Prep Essence Lotion serve as a power-magnet prep to promote faster penetration of actives. Double up on vitamin C for its numerous benefits, such as radiance-boosting, evening skin tone, improving texture, and fighting fine lines. Vitamin C can be applied morning and night after cleansing and before moisturizer, or as a final step in your skincare routine before SPF and/or foundation.
Hyaluronic acid is a staple in skincare routines, providing instant hydration, barrier repair function, protection against inflammation, compatibility with all skin types, non-comedogenic properties, and a plumper, dewier, and younger appearance. It can be found in various forms such as serums, creams, capsules, and sheet masks. Kilgore suggests using hyaluronic acid in one layer of your morning or evening routine, as it is a powerful ingredient that does not require excessive use.
When layering skincare products, always finish with sunscreen and avoid layering anything over it except for powder, concealer, or foundation. By choosing products that target your specific skin concerns and adapting them as needed, you can curate an effective skincare routine. Whether it’s hyaluronic acid for hydration, vitamin C for brightening, or a targeted treatment for anti-aging, incorporating the right products in the correct order can help maximize their benefits and improve the overall health and appearance of your skin. Following Kilgore’s expert advice can lead to a more effective and efficient skincare routine.
