Your skincare routine sorted - what order you should use products

 With so many products out there, it’s easy to see why your skincare routine has got a little confusing lately. It’s hard enough to know what products to use, let alone work out what order you’re supposed to use them in.
 
If you find yourself wondering what products you’re meant to use and when, keep reading, but bear in mind that this will change for everyone depending on your skin type. Some people may not need to use heavy oils and some people don’t react well to acids. To find out exactly what products you should be using, pop in to see one of our Dermalogica trained skincare experts. As for when to use them, a general rule of thumb is use thinner, water-based products first and follow with thicker, oil-based products, and during the day, always end with SPF.
 
Kickstart your 2020 skincare routine with this handy cheat sheet!
 
Daytime skincare order
 
Cleanser
 
First thing’s first, always start with washing your face using your cleanser and a hot flannel or cloth. This will make sure your face is clean and ready for you to start your skincare regime and your other products will work more effectively.
 
Toner
 
Not a necessity in your skincare routine but if you have a toner and you like to use it, this is the right time to! Toners are a much-debated topic in the world of beauty but if you have a toner that contains AHAs or BHAs, they might help if you struggle with breakouts, clogged pores or slow skin cell turnover. If you want more advice, our skincare experts are always happy to help in the salon.
 
Serums and moisturisers
 
In the morning, it’s a good idea to use a product with antioxidant properties as these offer additional protection against pollutants and other external factors. We recommend using treatment serums first and hydrating serums (things like hyaluronic acid) afterwards.
 
Sun cream/SPF
 
SPF should be used every day, not just in the summer or when the sun is shining. This is especially true if you are using acids or retinol in your routine as they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Always put your sun protection on last after using your other products as this will provide you with the most protection and remember to use enough of it - the rule of thumb is one teaspoon of sunscreen for your face.
 
Evening skincare order
 
Cleanser

Again, always start by cleansing your face. This will remove any makeup and impurities from the day.
 
Mask
 
Where does your face mask actually fit into the whole cleanse – tone – moisturise routine? Right after cleansing once or twice a week. The mask can get to work on your clean face, and it’ll help the other products to work more effectively too.
 
Toner
 
As we mentioned before, a toner isn’t always a necessary step but if you have a toner and you like to use it, this is the best time to.
 
Retinol

Retinol has many benefits but is also pretty potent so on the days that you use it, we recommend not using other products that contain acid so that you avoid any reactions. Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun so always apply in the evening and use SPF the following day. If you choose to follow this step with other products, you could dilute the active ingredient and reduce its effectiveness.
 
If you’re a newbie to retinol, introduce it gradually and begin with a low concentration. Our skincare experts can help with this if you would like further advice.
 
Serums
 
Just like your morning routine, we recommend using treatment serums first and hydrating serums second.
 
Moisturiser
 
Finish off your evening routine with your moisturiser or night cream and if you find your skin is particularly dry, layer an oil over the top to lock in moisture.
 
If you’re not sure what products are best suited to your skin type, book in for a Skin Solver or a facial with one of our skincare experts who will be able to advise you.