What is the best order to apply skincare products?
Before Dr. Idriss lays out the foundation, she says you’ll want to create different routines for the daytime and nighttime.
“For the morning,” she shared, “your skincare routine should be simple, yet effective to get you out the door. After washing your face with just water, use a serum that tackles your skin’s biggest issue. For example, if it’s pigmentation, go for a brightening serum. Next, use a moisturizer that’s ideal for your skin type and environment. And last, always, always wear the damn sunscreen.”
And although you’ll incorporate similar steps in the evening, this is where you can be a lot more intentional.
“At night, start off with a cleanser to wash away all the makeup, sunscreen and grime from the day,” Dr. Idriss advised. “A few nights a week, incorporate an exfoliating acid product, like an AHA mask or BHA toner (depending on your skin type). Then, follow up with an eye cream.”
And if you’re skeptical about eye creams, Dr. Idriss has a solution.
“Your targeted serum can double-up as an eye cream,” she explained. “For example, using a brightening serum under your eyes to tackle dark circles. Next, use your targeted serum(s). And finally, finish with a moisturizer.”