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Since we have started getting into the science of skincare more, I get questions on social media all the time about how I apply all my skin products. Today we are sharing the scientifically BEST way to apply skin products step by step.

So many readers DM me on Instagram because they have used products I have recommended, but aren’t sure what order to use them in.

I am also sharing all my favorite things to use for each step. I love sharing with you the best things that work (and most are cheap too).

Pin This: The Scientifically Best Way to Apply Skin Products Step by Step

Step One: Cleanse

The first thing you always want to do before applying any product to your face is make sure your face is clean!

I like to use a cream cleanser, like this one that is easy and soothing to use.

Or I use an oil cleanser like this one. You can also use grapeseed oil, rosehip oil, or almond oil on your face. Rub it around removing all the make up and dirt, then rinse well. If you use this type of oil method,you can exfoliate afterwards to remove the rest of the oil.

The cream cleanser I use most days, on days that I exfoliate then I will use an oil cleanser.

Step Two: Exfoliate (Not Everyday)

This won’t be every day! I only exfoliate 2-3 times per week.

My exfoliating is super cheap and chemistry based….I use a little rice flour usually. I add a spoonful of rice flour to my hand, dab it with some water until it forms a paste. Gently rub my skin. It works better than most store-bought items. You will find rice flour in many store-bought items too. It is a gentle physical exfoliant. To make it, you can just grind up rice until it is very fine. Make sure it is organic!

Another thing I use to exfoliate is pineapple. The bromine in pineapple removes dead skin cells and exfoliates very gently. Read more here.

Feel free to use any exfoliator you like! I also love using a glycolic acid scrub or vitamin c scrub.

Step Three: Toner

Toner is an amazing way to remove any remaining dirt or makeup.

If you follow me on Instagram, then you know this rose witch hazel toner is my favorite. It doesn’t dry skin, and it is so soothing.

Always apply toner with a cotton ball in an upward motion.

Step Four: Face Mask or Eye Mask (Not Every Day)

I use this once or twice a week.

I like to use this clay mask for my skin. DON”T mix it with apple cider vinegar. Just mix it with some water, leave on for 5 minutes, rinse.

Then, I will use my favorite DIY eye mask or the ones shown in this post.

Step Five: Serum

Now I will apply serum all over my face. I like to use retinol serum shown in this post. I always let the serum dry before applying another one. I also like to use vitamin C serum and hyaluronic acid serum.

You might also wonder what order to use serums in! Scientifically, you want to make sure serums penetrate the skin, so it does matter what order they go depending on what type of base they are. Here is a simple way to do it:

• Use water based serums first! Look on the label and if water is the number one ingredient, start with these first.
• Use heavier serums next (like ones mixed with oils)

Step Six: Moisturize

Now I apply face cream and eye cream. I usually don’t need much because my skin is so moisturized by now, but I do need a little.

Use any favorite face cream. This eye cream is all I use.

Step 6 and 7 can be swapped or changed depending on what you are using. For instance, not everyone uses face oil. If you prefer a cream, you would stop here. Some people prefer just using a face oil! If that is the case, you would go right into step 7. It is really up to you!

Step Seven: Nourish

Now is the time to add some nourishment to skin. I rotate between using rose hip oil, vitamin E oil, jojoba oil, squalane and almond oil.

All of these work in a similar way, so just choose one you really enjoy. I like to change oils, but the are all good for skin.

If your skin Is REALLY dry or you are suffering from some bad irritation, try adding a small amount of castor oil as well. Read more about it here.

Always apply a small amount and gently rub and dab into skin.

Optional Step: Overnight MASKS!

If you like to use an overnight mask of any kind, I recommend using one after moisturizing instead of oils. These are usually designed to moisturize your face even further, so it is best to use them last after a face cream. If you put oils on, then an overnight mask, it might not penetrate the oils.

Following these simple steps will help you get the MOST out of your skincare products. Science shows us the best way to combine products to get the most impact on your skin!

 

 

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