How to Properly use skin care

Understanding Skincare Routines: When do I use what, and why?

By following the right order of a structured routine, you can maximize the effectiveness and benefits of your skincare products and achieve healthier, more radiant skin!

Specifically, using products in a specific order based on their molecular weight helps maximize absorption!

The order of skincare products matters for several key reasons:

1. Absorption:
• Products are formulated with different molecular weights. Applying lighter products first (like serums) allows for better absorption of active ingredients into the skin, as heavier products can create a barrier.
2. Efficacy:
• Certain ingredients work best when applied in a specific order. For example, exfoliants prep the skin for serums, enhancing their effectiveness by removing dead skin cells and allowing for deeper penetration.
3. Moisture Retention:
• Starting with hydrating products (like toners and serums) and sealing them with a moisturizer helps lock in moisture, improving skin hydration and barrier function.
4. Layering:
• Proper layering ensures that each product can perform its intended function without interference from others. For instance, applying an occlusive agent last helps prevent moisture loss.
5. Targeting Concerns:
• Applying products based on their purpose (e.g., treatments before moisturizers) allows you to address specific skin issues more effectively.
6. Preventing Irritation:
• Some actives (like retinoids or acids) can irritate if applied over heavier creams. Following the correct order minimizes the risk of irritation and allows for better skin tolerance.

Step-by-Step Skincare Routine by Molecular Weight

1. Cleansing:
• Product Type: Gentle cleanser (low molecular weight).
• Purpose: Removes dirt, oil, and makeup.
• Evidence: Proper cleansing enhances skin hydration and barrier function (Draelos, 2015).
2. Toning (optional):
• Product Type: Lightweight toner (low molecular weight).
• Purpose: Balances skin pH and preps skin for subsequent products.
• Evidence: Antioxidant-rich toners improve hydration and radiance (Tamer et al., 2020).
3. Exfoliation (2-3 times a week):
• Product Type: Chemical exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs; low to moderate molecular weight).
• Purpose: Improves skin texture and reduces signs of aging.
• Evidence: AHAs enhance skin smoothness and can reduce hyperpigmentation (Khan et al., 2016).
4. Serums:
• Product Type: Light serums (low to moderate molecular weight; e.g., vitamin C, hyaluronic acid).
• Purpose: Targets specific skin concerns (brightening, hydration).
• Evidence: Vitamin C is effective in reducing hyperpigmentation and protecting against UV damage (Rhee et al., 2015).
5. Moisturizing:
• Product Type: Lightweight moisturizer (moderate molecular weight).
• Purpose: Locks in hydration and supports the skin barrier.
• Evidence: Moisturizers improve skin barrier function and hydration (Rawlings et al., 2004).
6. Occlusives (if needed):
• Product Type: Heavier creams or oils (high molecular weight).
• Purpose: Provide a barrier to prevent water loss.
• Note: Use this step if your skin is particularly dry or during colder months.
7. Sunscreen (AM routine):
• Product Type: Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher (typically a higher molecular weight).
• Purpose: Protects against UV damage.
• Evidence: Regular sunscreen use prevents skin cancer and photoaging (Gordon et al., 2013).
8. Night Cream (PM routine):
• Product Type: Richer moisturizer or overnight mask (high molecular weight).
• Purpose: Aids skin repair and hydration overnight.
• Evidence: Night creams can enhance skin recovery (Draelos, 2015).

Additional Tips

• Patch Test: Always perform a patch test for new products.
• Consistency: Stick to the routine for optimal results.
• Hydration and Diet: Maintain hydration and a balanced diet for overall skin health.

References

• Draelos, Z. D. (2015). The importance of cleansing in skincare.
• Khan, M. A., et al. (2016). A review of chemical exfoliation in dermatology.
• Rhee, H. S., et al. (2015). The effects of vitamin C on the skin.
• Rawlings, A. V., et al. (2004). Moisturizers and skin barrier function.
• Tamer, E. I., et al. (2020). The role of toners in skincare.
• Gordon, S. C., et al. (2013). Sunscreen effectiveness and skin cancer prevention.

Updated Skincare Routine with ( plated )™

Plated Skin Science serums contain active ingredients targeting specific skin concerns, and. should generally be applied after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizing. Here’s how to fit it into your routine:

1. Cleansing: Gentle cleanser.
2. Toning (optional): Lightweight toner.
3. Exfoliation (2-3 times a week): Chemical exfoliants.
4. Serum: Apply the Plated Skin Science serum here: allow 1-2 minutes to dry.
5. Moisturizing: Lightweight moisturizer.
6. Occlusives (if needed): Heavier creams or oils.
7. Sunscreen (AM routine): Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
8. Night Cream (PM routine): Richer moisturizer or overnight mask.

Key Points

• Absorption: Apply the serum on slightly damp skin after toning for better absorption.
• Layering: If using multiple serums, apply from thinnest to thickest consistency.

This placement allows the serum’s active ingredients to penetrate effectively, enhancing your overall skincare results!