While picking the right product for yourskin typeis important, so is the order in which you apply it.
This is especially true when it comes to active serums and creamy moisturizers.
Let’s get into it.
What goes first, serum or moisturizer?
Serums go first, no doubt about it.
This is becausemoisturizerscontain some occlusive ingredients, which help them trap moisture in the skin but preventotheringredients from penetrating.
But should you do this with other serum ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C?
In fact, the deeper these ingredients can penetrate, the better.
How to layer your products.
This is always the first step, even if it’s just a splash of water in the morning.
A clean canvas is necessary for all that follows.
Many toners also include pre- and postbiotics, which help feed your skin microbiome.
Plus, some essences add a boost of hydration.
Serum (optional but encouraged)
Remember:Serumsshould hit the skinbeforeyour moisturizer.
See, hyaluronic acid, along with aloe vera and glycerin, is categorized as ahumectant.
(More on serums 101 below.)
Moisturizer
postbiotic body lotion
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Next up, we have moisturizer.
If you have oily skin, you might prefer alightweight, water-based moisturizer.
This step is definitely a must, both day and night.
See, these little products contain actives specifically formulated for the thin, delicate skin under the eyes.
Here’s a list of our top picks for each concernif you’re ready to shop.
Reserve this step for mornings only, and be sure to apply to both your face and neck.
If you’re out for more than two hours, reapply your sunscreen for the best protection.
Find our favoritesnatural sunscreens here.
Or if you want to combo some steps, check out ourfavorite moisturizers with SPFs.
will ensure that the products don’t slip right off your dewy, hydrated canvas.
What’s a serum?
Now, what is a serum, really?
Serums are viewed as the “treatment” step in your skin care routine.
They’re probably your most potent productand therefore are often the most expensive.
), the modern-day approach is totally different.
Common serum ingredients.
This way, you’ll know what to keep an eye out for given your skin goals and concerns.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acidis an ultra-hydrator because it canhold 1,000 times its own weight in water3.
Apart from providing a hydration boost, HA serums can make the skin look plumper.
What is a moisturizer?
It’s important to have each of these in your product to ensure all-around hydration.
Common moisturizer ingredients.
Plus, we’ll call out which skin types may benefit from each ingredient the most.
Plant butters
Plant butters likeshea butterserve as rich emollients and help soften the skin.
These are great for every skin key in.
If you have acne-prone skin, stick withnoncomedogenic oilsor ask your dermatologist for suggestions.
Every skin throw in can benefit from ceramide-infused moisturizers.
Oat extracts
Oat oilhelps boost moisture in the skin, reduce inflammation, and ease irritation.
This ingredient is especially beneficial for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Aloe
Aloe vera extractis a soothing humectant that helps hydrate the skin.
It may even help fade dark spots and tend to acne.
Water
No moisturizer is complete without the essential H20.
Do you should probably use a serum?
What is best, serum or moisturizer?
Moisturizer is more essential to your overall skin health than serums.
Hyaluronic acid serum or moisturizer first?
Apply your hyaluronic acid serum right after cleansing.
Apply it to damp skin to help pull water into your pores.
Then follow up with your moisturizer.