As more skin care products hit the market each year, we know it can be hard to catch up. One of our most asked questions here at CATARA Medical Spa is, what order should I apply my skin care? Well don’t worry, we have you covered! It is essential to apply products in the correct order to maximize the benefits they offer. The order of which you apply your skin care and a daily routine can lead to healthy skin with less irritation and breakouts. Weather you use 3 products or 10, this step by step guide will have you ready to tackle any skin care routine with confidence.
Step 1 – Cleansing
Starting with a clean face is essential for products to penetrate and absorb into the skin effectively. Cleansing the skin first removes dirt, oil, makeup, and other buildup to prevent clogged pores, breakouts, and irritation. Not only does cleansing allow for a great base to your routine, but also balances pH levels in the skin. It is important to find a cleanser that is right for your skin type, and condition. One of our all-around favorites is Epionce Gentle Foaming Cleanser because it is great for all skin types. This gentle cleanser helps smooth and refine texture while leaving the skin feeling hydrated.
Step 2 – Toner and Serums
Now that your face is clean and your pores clear, you can apply toner or serums. Although using a toner or serum is optional, it could be a good choice if you are looking to enhance your skin care routine. Toner is applied directly after cleansing to wash away any last traces of dirt on the skin. Be sure to use alcohol free toner to avoid irritation and drying out the skin. Once you’ve applied toner, apply any serums that you use to help brighten, firm, or hydrate. Serums contain highly concentrated active ingredients that deliver results quickly. Serums are targeted treatments and can be applied to resolve various skin concerns such as, acne, fine lines, or dryness. A good rule of thumb is to apply thinnest to thickest in terms of product consistency.
Not sure what products to use post wash? Our recommendations include the Epionce Balancing Toner, a concentrated blend of botanical extracts that refines texture and gives the skin a surge of moisture. This is an alcohol free toner that helps balance pH levels in the skin. Our CMS MD Hydrate Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a great choice for your daily routine, helping the skin maintain hydration throughout the day. Looking for an exfoliating serum? Help the skin recover from a long day of work with the CMS MD Regenerate Advanced Retinol and Green Tea Serum. This exfoliating serum brightens and soothes the skin while supporting healthy collagen production and cellular turnover.
Step 3 – Moisturizer
Step 3 in our skin care guide is moisturizing! Moisturizer is essential to any skin care routine as it helps the skin barrier stay hydrated, firm, and healthy. Moisturizer also helps lock in the products underneath to maximize their effectiveness. It can act as a barrier for external pollution and UV rays, protecting the skin from harsh environmental damage. It is best to use moisturizer twice a day and to apply all over the face and neck. When moisturizing in the morning, look for products with hyaluronic acid to hydrate. At night, be looking for moisturizers with collagen peptides to help restore the skin barrier. Two of our favorites are CMS MD Replenish Cream or Epionce Intensive Nourishing Cream.
Step 4 – Sunscreen
Our final, and most forgotten, step in this skin care guide is SPF! Sunscreen is key to heathy skin and protects from harmful UV rays that could lead to skin cancer and premature aging. Even if you aren’t going outside for the day, you should still use sunscreen on your skin. Not only does it protect the skin, but it also helps prevent wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Sunscreen is always the final and most important step in your skin care routine. Look for a physical sunscreen with an SPF (Skin Protection Factor) of 40 or higher.
It is important to note that you can modify your routine with products and practices that work best for you. Skin care is not one size fits all and you may find a unique product or practice for your unique skin! If you are wondering how to improve your skin’s health, the skilled professionals at CATARA Medical Spa can help. Book your complimentary consultation today and let us help you look and feel your absolute best!