How Do You Layer Skin Care Products?

We mentioned that dermatologists recommend pure retinol as opposed to derivatives and complexes, but you may be curious as to why. “Purity is important for retinol efficacy in skin, as pure retinol works faster. Always look for a high concentration of pure retinol versus retinol derivatives and complexes that take longer to work,” says Dr. Rocio Rivera, PhD, and head of scientific communications for L’Oréal Paris.

Facial cleanser should always be the first step in your skin care routine. From clay facial cleansers for oily and combination skin types, to a cleansing milk for dry or mature skin, choose the cleanser that best suits your skin type. For those with normal to oily skin types, we love the Revitalift Classic Milky Cleansing Foam, with a rich milky cream texture that gently lathers to gently cleanse skin. Those with dry skin types should look for hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, like in the Revitalift Filler HA Cleanser. 

For oily and acne prone skin types look for the oil absorbing properties of clay. Pure Clay Eucalyptus Purifying Cream Face Wash and Pure Clay Red Algae Exfoliating Face Scrub both combine three pure clays to absorb impurities and oil from your skin, without over-drying it. (Keen to check out a clay mask too? Discover which is right for you with our guide, What's the Best Clay Mask for Your Skin Type?)

Applying toner to your face may not seem like an important step in your skin care routine order, but we promise it’s worth it. Even after using a facial cleanser, residual dirt and grim may still remain on the surface of your skin. Use the Age Perfect Classic Face Toner to cleanse and remove impurities, brighten and replenish skin, and protect against moisture loss. This toner formula is enriched with both magnesium and vitamin to help re-energise your skin.

One of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to the order of skin care products is, “Serum vs. Moisturiser—which comes first?” As long as you’re sticking to our golden rule of application (thin first, followed by thick), this answer is easy—your facial serum always goes first. Apply the Revitalift Filler 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum onto clean skin on your face, neck and jawline, gently smoothing into your skin until it’s thoroughly absorbed. This serum is lightweight yet delivers an intensive boost in hydration to help replump skin and reduce appearance of wrinkles with continued use. That’s a yes from us!

For our ultimate in anti-ageing skincare, look for a facial serum with retinol, which fights the visible signs of ageing, and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Remember – our Revitalift Laser Retinol Serum and our pure hyaluronic acid serum can be layered for the best of both worlds. Apply the Revitalift Filler 1.5% Serum first.

Tip: If your skin is still damp from cleansing or toning, no worries. The water on your skin can actually assist with locking in moisture. It’s perfectly okay to apply your serum before your complexion is fully dry.