Finding the perfect skincare routine isn't just about choosing the right products; it's also about applying them in the correct order. One of the most common questions we receive at Onekind is, "What order should I apply my skincare products?"
As a general rule, we recommend working your way from thinnest to thickest product, and letting each step sit for about 60 seconds in between each step for maximum absorption and an even distribution. This typically looks like:
Cleanser --> Toner --> Serums --> Eye Gels/Balms --> Moisturizers --> Oils --> SPF
1. Cleanse: Begin with a Fresh Canvas
Cleansing is the critical first step in any skincare routine. It removes the dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities that have accumulated on your skin throughout the day or night. Starting with a clean slate ensures that the subsequent products you apply can penetrate the skin more effectively without any barriers.
Cleansing not only prepares your skin to absorb the other products in your regimen, but it also promotes healthy skin by preventing clogged pores and breakouts. Whether it's morning or night, never skip this essential step to ensure that your skin is optimally primed for the rest of your skincare routine.
Shop Our Clean Slate Barrier Boosting Cleanser
2. Tone: Prep and Balance Your Skin
Toner is an often-overlooked but critical step in your skincare routine. After cleansing, toner helps to restore your skin’s natural pH balance, which can be disrupted by water and cleansers. Toners are designed to remove any residual impurities, while also providing a quick burst of hydration. This step preps your skin to better absorb the next layers of treatment.
Look for toners that contain soothing and hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid, which are perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin. For those dealing with excess oil or acne, a toner containing witch hazel or salicylic acid can help clarify and tighten pores without over-drying your skin. Apply toner using a cotton pad or pat it directly into your skin with clean hands for maximum absorption.
Our Radical Repair™ Balancing Tonic is the perfect choice for this step. Formulated with skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera and our Bio-Collagen Complex, it helps to soothe, hydrate, and improve skin texture, making it ideal for all skin types—including sensitive skin. This multitasking tonic not only balances your skin but also helps repair damage and strengthen the skin barrier over time.
Toners are lightweight, making them ideal to apply right after cleansing and before serums. This step ensures your skin is refreshed and fully prepared to receive the rest of your skincare products.
Shop Our Radical Repair™ Balancing Tonic
3. Serums: Targeted Treatments
Serums are the powerhouse of a skincare routine, offering targeted treatments to address specific skin concerns such as fine lines, hyperpigmentation, or dehydration. These lightweight, fast-absorbing formulations are designed to deliver high concentrations of active ingredients directly into the skin.
The rule-of-thumb here is to work from the thinnest to the thickest serum if you are using multiple types. Apply your serums to clean, slightly damp skin to help the product absorb more efficiently. Gentle patting and pressing motions can help to distribute the serum evenly across your face without pulling or tugging at the skin.
Allow about 60 seconds between each serum application for maximum absorption and even distribution. Remember, less is more. A small amount of serum can go a long way, and over-applying can lead to product buildup without necessarily increasing efficacy.
Serums are highly customizable to your unique skin needs. Whether you want to brighten, hydrate, or tackle the signs of aging, selecting the right serums can make a significant difference in your skin's appearance and feel. If you're unsure which serums are right for you, we offer personalized recommendations to help you find the perfect match.
4. Eye Care: Eye Gels and Eye Balms
The delicate skin around your eyes deserves special attention. Eye care products like eye balms or gels are designed to target concerns such as puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines. These products often contain gentle, effective ingredients like peptides and hyaluronic acid. Applying them after your serums ensures that these targeted treatments can absorb efficiently.
When applying, use your ring finger to lightly pat the product around the orbital bone, avoiding the eyelids. This area's skin is thin and sensitive, so a gentle touch is essential. Proper eye care can lead to a more refreshed and youthful appearance. Check out this blog post we wrote on eye gels and balms to learn more about which is right for you!
Shop Our Eye Gel, Balm, and Masks
5. Moisturizers: Lock in Hydration
Moisturizers play an essential role in sealing in all the goodness from the previous steps and keeping your skin well-hydrated. They contain a blend of essential oils, fatty acids, and humectants that work together to lock in moisture and create a barrier against environmental aggressors. This step ensures that your skin stays soft, plump, and radiant throughout the day or night.
Apply your moisturizer in gentle upward strokes, taking the time to massage it into your skin. Allow it to sit for about 60 seconds before moving on to the next step in your routine. If you have extra sensitive skin, you may opt to apply moisturizer before serums to create a bit of a buffer. This variation in the application order caters to individual skin needs and ensures that you get the most out of your Onekind products.
6. Oil: Extra Nourishment
Facial oils are designed to provide your skin with an extra layer of nourishment, especially in areas that might need more attention. Rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, oils can help to soften, hydrate, and revitalize your skin. They create a protective barrier that seals in moisture without clogging pores, ensuring that all the active ingredients from your serums and moisturizers are locked in.
Applying a few drops of oil to your face can make a remarkable difference, particularly during harsh weather conditions or if your skin is prone to dryness. Gently pat the oil into your skin, focusing on any dry or dull areas. Allow it to absorb for about 60 seconds before proceeding to the final step of your skincare routine. The right facial oil can enhance your skin's natural glow and keep it looking fresh and healthy all day long.
Shop Our Golden State Nourishing Facial Oil
7. SPF: Shield and Protect
Sunscreen is an absolute must in any skincare routine. It's not just for beach days; protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is a daily necessity. Using an SPF serum like Solardrops, which offers broad-spectrum sun protection, shields your skin from the damaging effects of both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent premature aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer.
Applying SPF as the final step in your skincare routine ensures that the protective barrier is on top of all the other nourishing ingredients you've layered on your skin. Make sure to cover all exposed areas, including your neck and hands, to maximize protection. Your skin will thank you with a youthful, radiant glow that lasts all day.
Shop Our Solardrops SPF 55 Daily Broad-Spectrum Serum
Why Thinnest to Thickest?
The reasoning behind the "thinnest to thickest" rule is simple but effective. Lighter products are absorbed more quickly and should be applied first so that they don’t have to work their way through heavier creams and oils. This order ensures that your products can work at their full potential without any hindrance.
Special Consideration for Sensitive Skin
If you have extra sensitive skin, you may want to switch up the traditional order a bit. Applying a moisturizer before your serums can create a barrier that buffers your skin from the more active ingredients found in some serums. This approach helps to protect your skin, reducing potential irritation.
Remember, these are general guidelines, and the best routine for your skin may vary. If you have concerns about sensitivity or other skin issues, don't hesitate to reach out to us at onekind.us or start a live chat with us for personalized advice. Our team of skincare experts is here to help you find the perfect routine tailored to your skin's unique needs.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect skincare routine with Onekind products is about understanding the benefits of each product and applying them in the correct order. By following these guidelines, you're on your way to nourished, protected, and radiant skin.
If you have any questions about the specific products you have or need personalized assistance, feel free to reach out to us at hello@onekind.us or start a live chat with us. We're here to help you every step of the way!
For personalized recommendations tailored to your skin, take our Onekind Skin Quiz for product suggestions and a special 20% discount!
Stay radiant! ✨
