We all know the importance of a good skincare routine. With our hectic lifestyle and stress combined with pollution and other environmental factors, a good and proper skincare regime is not something we can afford to skip, if we love our skin. But if you are anything like me, I am sure the new-age skincare routines leave you confused.
What all products do you need? In what order should you be using them? Are you applying the right quantity? And is daytime skincare routine different from what you are following at night? To better understand all this, we decided to ask dermatologist and cosmetologist, Dr. Chandni Jain Gupta for her expert advice in answering all of this. So, to help you get the most out of your skincare routine, we have curated a Guide for you with the help of our Expert skin specialist.
Right order to apply skincare products
In order of applying, women often get confused between three main products – Serums, moisturizers and oils. Serums and oils are still fairly new additions to skincare routines and that’s why confuse many. Once you are done with cleansing your face, the general order for applying products should be:
Serum: Serums are typically concentrated and designed to target specific skin concerns. They should be applied after cleansing and toning.
Moisturiser: Creams are usually thicker and provide hydration and a protective barrier for the skin. And, they should be applied after serum.
Oils: Oils are best used last to seal in moisture and help lock in the benefits of the products applied earlier. And, they should come after your cream.
How much to apply?
Too much or too little, when it comes to products, you need to make sure you use the right quantity to get the most of them.
Serum: Serums are highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way. You only need about 2-3 drops or a pea-sized amount when it comes to applying serums.
Moisturizer: Creams provides adequate coverage without overloading your skin. So, apply about a pea-sized amount on your face.
Sunscreen: You need enough to ensure full coverage and effective protection, so use approximately 1.5-2 fingertip units for your face and neck
Oil: Oils are usually potent and a small amount is sufficient for most people, so all you need is about 2-3 drops or a few small drops.
These amounts can vary depending on the specific formulations and personal preferences, but starting with these guidelines can help ensure you’re applying products effectively.
How much time to wait between applying different products?
While there is no one-size fits as it is many times dependent on your skin’s condition and personal preferences. Also this depends on whether the product you are using is gel- or oil-based.
For optimal results, it is generally recommended to wait about 1-2 minutes between applying different skincare products. This allows each layer to absorb properly.
AM Vs. PM Skincare Routine
The rules for daytime and nighttime skincare routines differ slightly to cater to the skin’s needs during different parts of the day.
What is the best daytime skincare regime?
An ideal daytime skincare routine should follow:
- Cleansing: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any oil, sweat, or impurities accumulated overnight.
- Toning: Use a toner to balance the skin’s pH levels and prepare it for subsequent products.
- Serums: Apply serums with antioxidants (like Vitamin C) to protect against environmental damage and promote skin repair.
- Moisturizer: Use a lightweight moisturizer with SPF (SPF 30 or higher) to protect against UV rays. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours if outdoors.
- Eye Cream: Apply an eye cream to hydrate and protect the delicate skin around the eyes.
- Makeup: If wearing makeup, apply it after skincare products have fully absorbed.
What is an ideal nighttime skincare routine?
When it comes to your nighttime regime, here’s what should be followed:
- Cleansing: Double cleanse (first with an oil-based cleanser, then with a water-based cleanser) to thoroughly remove makeup, SPF, and pollutants.
- Exfoliation (2-3 times a week): Use a chemical exfoliant (like AHAs or BHAs) to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
- Toning: Use a toner to rebalance the skin’s pH levels and hydrate.
- Serums/Treatments: Apply serums with active ingredients (like retinol, peptides, or hyaluronic acid) to target specific skin concerns.
- Moisturizer: Use a richer, hydrating moisturizer or night cream to nourish and repair the skin overnight.
- Eye Cream: Apply a hydrating eye cream to minimize fine lines and dark circles.
- Sleeping Mask (optional): Use a sleeping mask or a thicker moisturizer for added hydration and repair.
Adapting your skincare routine to day and night needs help optimize protection, repair, and hydration for healthy, radiant skin.
Additional Skincare Tips:
When it comes to skincare, just applying the products, in the right order and quantity alone, is not enough. There are some things you must keep in mind if you wish the products work their magic and for a glowing skin.
- Consistency: Stick to a routine that works for your skin type and concerns.
- Patch Test: Always patch test new products to avoid potential allergic reactions or irritation.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within.
- Diet and Lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in antioxidants and regular exercise contribute to overall skin health.
Now that you know about what to do and how to do it, and even why it is essential, it is time for you to adopt a daily skincare routine that you follow consistently to make sure all those expensive products in your cabinet are worth their investment.
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Meet our Guest Expert: Dr. Chandni Jain Gupta is a renowned Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Venereologist and Hair Transplant Surgeon. She is the Founder of Elantis Aesthetics in Delhi.