Rule of thumb = apply the products in order of the thinnest to thickest texture.
Example: Cleanser, mist or toner, serums, moisturizer, then your sunscreen.
This technically works, however, as an esthetician with 20 plus years experience, and owner of Aesthetically Speaking in Reno, Nevada, I am going to break it down even more for you taking into consideration your skin type/concerns, along with some of my favorites product picks!
When you’re using more than one product with active ingredients (meaning products that actively cause a change in your skin) acids, retinoids, AHA’s, BHA’s that both have a similar consistency, apply them in the order of your main concern.
Example: Your primary concern is Congestion: Apply exfoliating serum first
My recommendation: Image Ageless Total Microderm Exfoliator
Example: Your primary concern is Aging: Apply Vitamin C serum first
My recommendation is: Image Vital C Hydrating Anti-Aging Serum
Example: Your primary concern is Hydration Apply hyaluronic acid serum first
My recommendation is: Image Ageless Total Pure Hyaluronic 6 filler
Example; Your primary concern is Oily/Acne Apply acne serum first
My recommendation is: Image Clear Cell Clarifying repair creme
Still confused? Let’s go through some example morning/evening skin routines to familiarize you……
Morning; Cleanse (I LOVE to double cleanse!) You can use the same cleanser twice, or use two different cleansers, then apply your eye creme (because its the thickest) and its applied directly to the eye area, serum, moisturizer, and finally your SPF.
Evening: Cleanser (oil first then second cleanse if double cleansing) eye creme, your treatment product with actives(vitamin C, chemical exfoliant containing acids) then moisturizer.
** PRO TIP: Damp skin always absorbs products more effectively, so I like to use a mist after cleansing and before my serums. I absolutely LOVE Image Vital C Hydrating Water Burst because it’s suitable for all skin types and it smells super yummy!
With my 20 plus years experience as an Esthetician, I have worked with many different skin care lines over the years. One that continues to earn my respect and remain a constant in my salon, is Image Skincare. Image has been an industry leader and is a global skincare brand powered by proven ingredients, smart botanicals and results-first technology. Image was founded by an esthetician, formulated by a plastic surgeon and is recommended by a network of over 50,000 skincare professionals worldwide. It has been my “go to” because it’s the one product that never disappoints! I have prescribed it to many clients over the years that swear by it, and I know that it really works!
If you are interested in having myself, or any of my advanced estheticians customize a facial for you, or learn more about what products we recommend for your unique skin type or condition, we would love to help you!
You can also contact me about future blogs you’d like me to write more of.