“Dermatologist Shares the Best Order to Apply Your Skincare Products (PM Skincare Routine)” is a video created by Dr. Sam Ellis, a dermatologist, and it provides a step-by-step guide on how to properly layer skincare products in your nighttime routine. The video covers various products such as cleansers, toners, essences, serums, eye creams, retinoids, moisturizers, and face oils. Dr. Ellis emphasizes the importance of each step and mentions that the information provided is not intended as medical advice, recommending consulting a physician. Additionally, the video mentions that some links in the video description may be affiliate links to support the creator’s channel, and some products may have been received as PR samples.
In this video, Dr. Sam Ellis, a board-certified dermatologist, explains the correct order to apply your skincare products in a nighttime routine. She demonstrates her own routine, starting with a double cleanse using micellar water and a hydrating cleanser. Dr. Ellis skips using a toner, but explains that it may not be necessary with a gentle cleanser. She proceeds to apply a serum containing azelaic acid, followed by an optional step of eye cream. Then, she applies a retinoid product on her face and a milder retinol product on her neck. Lastly, Dr. Ellis applies a moisturizer to the face and neck, mentioning that some may choose to add a face oil on top. The video concludes by encouraging viewers to ask any questions about product layering in the comments section.
Understanding the Basics of Skincare Layering
Skincare layering can be a confusing concept. With so many different products available, it’s hard to know which order to apply them in and how they all interact with each other. In this article, we’ll break down the basics of skincare layering and explain why the order of application matters. By understanding the fundamentals of skincare layering, you can optimize the effectiveness of your nighttime routine and achieve the best possible results for your skin.
First Step: Double Cleansing
The first step in any nighttime skincare routine is double cleansing. This two-step process involves using a micellar water for the first cleanse and following up with a gentle hydrating cleanser for the second cleanse.
Micellar water is a fantastic option for the first cleanse as it effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. It’s especially useful on days when you’re feeling tired or lazy and don’t want to go through the hassle of rinsing off an oil or balm cleanser. Simply soak a cotton round in micellar water and swipe it across your face to remove impurities.
After the first cleanse, it’s important to follow up with a hydrating cleanser to give your skin a deeper clean without stripping it of its natural oils. Look for a cleanser that has a pH around 5.5, which is similar to the pH of your skin. This will ensure that the cleanser is gentle and won’t cause any irritation.
Are Toners Necessary?
When it comes to toners, opinions vary. Some skincare experts swear by them, while others believe they’re unnecessary. In the video, the speaker mentions that she doesn’t use a toner in her routine because it’s not necessary when using a gentle cleanser.
However, toners can have their benefits. They can help to balance the pH of the skin, remove any remaining impurities, and prep the skin for better absorption of subsequent skincare products. Whether or not you need a toner in your routine depends on your skin type and concerns. If you find that toners make a noticeable difference in the appearance and feel of your skin, then it may be worth incorporating one into your routine.
The Role of Essence in Skincare
Essence is another product that is commonly used in skincare routines. The general purpose of an essence is to provide a boost of hydration and improve the overall health of the skin. However, the speaker in the video does not use an essence in her routine.
The decision to use or skip an essence depends on personal preference and the specific needs of your skin. Some people find that essences help to hydrate and plump their skin, while others feel that they don’t see much difference when using one. If you have dry or dehydrated skin, an essence may be beneficial for restoring moisture and improving the overall texture of your skin. However, if your skin is already well-hydrated and you don’t feel the need for an extra step, then it’s perfectly fine to skip using an essence.
Benefits of Serum Application
Serums are highly concentrated products that contain active ingredients targeted at specific skin concerns. In the video, the speaker applies a serum containing azelaic acid, which is known for its ability to reduce redness, pigmentation, and breakouts.
The benefits of using a serum are vast. They can provide intense hydration, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brighten the skin, and target specific skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or dullness. The effectiveness of a serum largely depends on the active ingredients it contains, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your specific skincare needs.
When incorporating a serum into your routine, make sure to apply it after cleansing and toning, if you choose to use a toner. Serums are lightweight and easily absorb into the skin, so they should be applied before heavier products like moisturizers or oils.
Eye Cream – Essential or Optional?
The speaker in the video mentions that using an eye cream is an optional step in her routine. However, there are many reasons why someone might choose to use an eye cream.
The skin around the eyes is delicate and thin, making it more prone to dryness and signs of aging. Eye creams are specifically formulated to address these concerns by providing nourishment and hydration to the skin. They can also help to reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines.
If you’re experiencing any of these concerns or simply want to give your under-eye area some extra TLC, using an eye cream can be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine. Apply a small amount of eye cream using your ring finger, as it applies the least amount of pressure, and gently pat it into the skin.
The Power of Retinoids and Retinol
Retinoids, such as tretinoin, and retinol are powerhouse ingredients in skincare. The speaker in the video uses a retinoid product for her face and a milder retinol product for her neck.
Retinoids and retinol are derivatives of vitamin A and are known for their anti-aging and anti-acne effects. They help to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and regulate sebum production. These ingredients can also help to fade acne scars and even out skin tone.
When using a retinoid or retinol product, it’s important to start with a low concentration and gradually increase the strength as your skin tolerates it. These ingredients can be quite potent and may cause initial dryness or irritation, so it’s best to introduce them slowly into your routine. Apply a small pea-sized amount of the product to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area, and gently massage it into the skin.
Sealing It All with a Moisturizer
Moisturizer is a crucial step in any skincare routine, as it helps to hydrate and nourish the skin. The speaker in the video mentions that she uses the Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair moisturizer.
Choosing the right moisturizer for your skin type is essential. Look for one that is lightweight yet hydrating, and suits the needs of your skin. Moisturizers help to lock in moisture, maintain the skin’s barrier function, and provide a protective layer against environmental aggressors.
The Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair moisturizer, specifically, is known for its soothing and calming properties. It contains Japanese indigo extract, which helps to relieve dryness and inflammation.
To apply moisturizer, take a pea-sized amount and warm it up between your palms. Gently press it into your skin, starting from the center of your face and working your way outward. Don’t forget to include your neck and décolletage in your moisturizing routine as well.
To Face oil or Not to Face oil
The debate around whether to apply a face oil over a moisturizer is a common one. In the video, the speaker mentions that some people choose to add a face oil on top of their moisturizer, but it’s not a necessary step.
Whether or not you should use a face oil depends on your skin’s needs. Face oils can provide additional hydration and nourishment to the skin, as well as help to seal in moisture. They can also offer various other benefits depending on the specific oil used, such as reducing inflammation, improving skin elasticity, or providing antioxidant protection.
If you have dry or dehydrated skin, using a face oil after moisturizing can be beneficial for adding an extra layer of hydration. However, if your skin is already adequately moisturized and you don’t feel the need for additional oils, then it’s perfectly fine to skip this step.
Conclusion: Cultivating a Skin-friendly PM Routine
In conclusion, understanding the basics of skincare layering is crucial for optimizing the effectiveness of your nighttime routine. By following a specific order of application, you can ensure that each product is properly absorbed and that the active ingredients interact harmoniously.
To summarize the ideal nighttime skincare routine according to the speaker:
- Double cleanse with a micellar water followed by a gentle hydrating cleanser.
- Decide if a toner is necessary based on personal preference and product effectiveness.
- Incorporate an essence if hydration and overall skin health are desired.
- Apply a serum with active ingredients targeted at specific skin concerns.
- Use an optional eye cream for extra nourishment and hydration.
- Choose a retinoid or retinol product for anti-aging and anti-acne effects.
- Seal it all in with a moisturizer that suits your skin type and needs.
- Consider adding a face oil if additional hydration and nourishment are desired.
Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so it’s essential to listen to your skin’s needs and adjust your routine accordingly. If you’re unsure about which products or order of application is best for you, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice from a dermatologist or skincare expert.
Cultivating a skin-friendly PM routine is all about finding what works for you and your skin. Experiment with different products, listen to your skin’s needs, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments along the way. With a consistent and personalized skincare routine, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin.
