By Yemisi Suleiman

Achieving healthy, radiant skin requires more than just using the right products; it is also essential to know how to layer them correctly because skincare order can significantly impact the effectiveness of each product. There are so many products out there, from cleansers to moisturisers, promising beautiful skin. But how do you know when and how to use them? The golden rule to remember is to layer your products from lightest to heaviest. This means that your lightweight liquids will come first, while your heavier and thicker creams will be the ones to end with.

Here is an easy guide on how to layer your skincare products for optimal results.

Cleanser

Always use a gentle cleanser as it won’t disrupt the natural pH of your skin or strip it of its natural oils. We recommend Tiam Snail And Azulene Low Ph Cleanser, a mild low pH gel cleanser that gently removes dirt and impurities while keeping your skin pH balanced and hydrated. Other great, similar alternatives are the Cerave Foaming Cleanser and Cosrx Low Ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser. These products are available on Nectar Beauty Hub.

If you have makeup on though, a cleansing oil such as the Cerave Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser should be used first before moving on to your regular cleanser.

Toner

Next, use toner to prepare your skin for the next steps in your skincare routine. Toners help restore the skin’s pH balance, ensure absorption of other products, and remove any traces of dead skin cells, dirt, makeup, or oil your cleanser may have missed. Right now, many skincare enthusiasts swear by Isntree Green Tea Toner, Some By Mi Miracle Toner, Klairs Unscented Toner, Tiam Vitamin B3 Mist Toner, and Cosrx Propolis Synergy Toner, and you should try out one too. The Tiam Vitamin B3 Mist Toner,  for example, is enriched with 3% niacinamide, tranexamic acid and Vitamin C to rejuvenate lackluster skin and fade hyperpigmentation. All products are available on Nectar Beauty Hub.

Serum

Now, apply your serums. Serums are concentrated formulas filled with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and retinol, each targeting specific skin concerns. Serums usually have lighter consistencies than moisturisers. Apply a pea-sized amount of serum and focus on areas with specific concerns. Vitamin C serum such as Cosrx Vitamin C 23 Serum, Tiam C 24 Serum, Cerave Vitamin C Serum and Missha Vitamin C Serum help to brighten skin and tackle hyperpigmentation. Available at Nectar Beauty Hub.

Moisturiser

Now it’s time to moisturise and lock in all the active ingredients from your serum. Moisturisers help to protect your skin barrier, and a good brand should also hydrate and strengthen your skin. If you have oily skin, choose an oil-free moisturiser that won’t clog your pores, such as the Cosrx Advanced Snail 92 All in one Cream; an all-in-one solution cream. For dry skin, opt for a thick, creamy moisturiser that will provide intense hydration, such as the Cerave Moisturising Cream. These products are available at Nectar Beauty Hub.

Sunscreen

Learn to always finish your skincare routine with SPF, even on cloudy days. SPF protects your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 40 and ensure it is broad-spectrum. Tiam VitB3 Sunscreen,Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sunscreen, Laroche Posay Anthelios Fluid, Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel and Missha Aqua Sunscreen are among the best sunscreens infused with SPF50 to defend against sun damage and environmental aggressors. All products are available on Nectar Beauty Hub.