Serums are considered the heavy artillery of skincare, and that's not an exaggeration. They're products fortified with low-molecular-weight ingredients in very high concentrations, designed to address specific needs. That's why a serum can make a difference in your skincare routine.
With their light formulas and fluid textures, they penetrate the lower layers of the skin and offer everything from hydration, antioxidant protection and radiance to firming, reduction of wrinkles and discoloration.
Serum on top of serum
Serum layering is the technique of applying two or three serums one after the other . The goal is to create layers of different ingredients from each serum to address multiple skin needs. Think of it as a… cocktail of ingredients!
It may sound time-consuming and unnecessary, but once you try it, you'll change your mind, especially if you're looking to upgrade your skincare routine. If you're looking to keep your routine minimalist, then serum layering is not for you.
Does serum layering really help?
Your skin is affected by various factors, such as the environment, seasons, weather conditions, stress or even psychological mood. Therefore, it has different needs per period. Most serums have a basic action, such as hydration, radiance, firming or soothing.
If you feel like your skin has more than one need (e.g. radiance and anti-aging combined), a single serum may not be enough. Layering serums allows you to customize and personalize your skincare routine, combining multiple benefits.
How to do serum layering
The correct order is from the thinnest to the thickest serum
Start with hydrating serums and move on to richer textures to ensure better absorption of the products.
Prioritize your needs
Consider what your skin needs at a given time, choose serums that meet those needs, and combine them into a skincare routine. For example, if your face feels dehydrated and looks dull, a good combination is hyaluronic acid for dehydration and vitamin C for a dull and lackluster appearance.
Do not mix incompatible ingredients
Some ingredients don't go well together at all: for example, vitamin C and retinol, or retinol and fruit acids. Don't try to combine them under any circumstances!
Do not combine more than 2-3 serums
If you decide to layer serums, don't go over three, especially if your skin is sensitive. Keep in mind that multiple layers of active ingredients can irritate your skin.
The indicative serum layering routine
In the morning
The main goal in the morning is protection and hydration .Start with a serum with hyaluronic acid for hydration and volume.
Continue with vitamin C, which will provide you with antioxidant protection and shine.
You can finish with a third serum with niacinamide or ceramides , which repair and strengthen the skin barrier.
At night
The evening is the right time to repair damage that has occurred during the day and for regeneration:One suggestion is to combine a serum with hydrating hyaluronic acid or soothing niacinamide with a second one containing retinol or peptides , which stimulate collagen and offer anti-aging benefits.
Another suggestion is to combine a serum with acids (AHAs/BHAs) for exfoliation, renewal and radiance (but only 2–3 times a week) with a soothing serum with centella or ceramides.
Tips for more effective serum layering
Always apply serums by patting them in instead of rubbing them into your face.
Wait a few minutes before applying the next serum to allow the previous one's ingredients to fully absorb. If you're using serums with active ingredients like retinol, wait at least 20 minutes before applying the next serum.
To avoid irritation and other unpleasant surprises, first test the serum combinations on a small area of the back of your neck and let them sit for a few minutes. If there is no reaction, then proceed with layering as normal.
Complete the serum layering with your day or night cream .
Don't forget sunscreen every morning, especially if you use serums with active ingredients like vitamin C and retinol.
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