I’m a Dermatologist – The Truth About Applying Your Skin Care in the Right Order and the Most Proven Product to Prevent Aging

WHEN it comes to optimizing the results of your skincare routine, it’s important to do things in the right order.

A dermatologist also shares which product that should be part of this regimen could take years off your appearance.

Board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, Dr. Michael I. Jacobsexplained why it’s crucial to use skincare products in the correct steps.

“If products are not used in the correct order, it can mitigate the effects of the product on the skin,” he said.

“For example, toner is used to balance the skin’s pH levels after cleansing, so using it as a second step is important to get the best results,” he continued.

“Additionally, layering products over SPF can alter the effectiveness of the protection, so I always recommend using it as the final step in your skin care routine.

“A general rule of thumb when layering your skincare products is to layer from thinnest to thickest consistency.”

Skincare brand Neutrogena shared a chart explaining the order in which you should apply its products for the best anti-aging results.

When you use certain items it can make a “vital” difference.

The first of the six steps involves applying a cleanser with skin benefits.

Infused with hyaluronic acid, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser “boosts” the skin’s hydration level.

Next, you will want to remove the toner.

This preparation step will ensure better absorption of the rest of the products.

For even brighter skin, don’t forget to use a serum.

They then recommend showing your eyes some love by applying a moisturizing eye cream.

You’ll also want to quench your skin’s thirst with the brand’s Hydro Boost Water Cream.

Described as being infused with hyaluronic acid, additional hydrating ingredients and three lip essentials, this will be your skin’s saving grace.

3

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, don’t forget to use SPF.

They advise incorporating sunscreen into your skin care routine, even if clouds are absent.

ADVICE FOR AGES

Dr. Jacobs detailed the most important products and practices for combating the signs of aging.

He especially vowed to use this skin-saving buy — retinol.

“By stimulating collagen production and increasing skin cell turnover, retinol can work to keep skin looking youthful as we age,” he said.

3

To keep your skin hydrated, which can help turn back the clock — at least on your face — he advises using a high-quality moisturizer.

A hyaluronic acid serum is also a good way to keep your skin “hydrated and plump.”

He also explained how the most important anti-aging effects result from our long-term habits.

This means avoiding smoking and prioritizing a healthy diet.

If you’re willing to visit your own dermatologist, he recommends getting radiofrequency, ultrasound, or laser to “attack the signs of aging that you’re worried about.”

FIGHT FINE LINES

He also shared what you should use to combat fine lines and wrinkles.

“I recommend keeping it simple and focusing on hydration in your skin care routine, as well as implementing a retinol,” she said.

Again, he is a big fan of Neutrogena products.

“I recommend finding a humectant to help your skin retain moisture as you age, like hyaluronic acid or glycerin,” he said.

To help improve your skin’s health, Dr. Jacobs wants you to do more with a nightly double cleanse.

Wearing SPF 50+ during the day will also help prevent wrinkles.

FORGET IT

With so many items on the market, Dr. Jacobs understands how difficult it can sometimes be to find the right items for you and advises what you can avoid.

“It mostly depends on your skin type and specific concerns,” he said.

“Some added products may be beneficial for the skin but are not essential in a good skin care regimen, such as a facial oil or hydrating skin mist.”

POURING OVER YOUR PORES

Dr. Jacobs emphasized the importance of cleansing and tightening pores.

“I recommend using a product that contains the BHA ingredient, salicylic acid, to penetrate pores and help exfoliate dead skin cells and the sebum buildup inside,” he said.

He’s also a fan of doing hydrafacials.

EYE LOVE

He also doesn’t want you to ignore the eye area.

To better combat bags and dark circles, which he explained are often determined by genetics and lifestyle, he recommends products to reduce the appearance of under-eye puffiness.

This includes using an eye cream with caffeine or niacinamide for “brightening” effects.

“Microneedling with radiofrequency and PRP may be beneficial,” he said.

BIGGEST MISTAKES

In addition to following his clear skin commandments, Dr. Jacobs wants to help you avoid some common skin care mistakes.

“I think some women overcomplicate their skincare routines with 20 steps, when often the basics like a good quality cleanser, toner, retinol, and moisturizer are the most effective skincare products.”

“Also, don’t expect your skin care routine to make drastic changes to your skin or reverse signs of aging; For more noticeable results, in-office treatments may be necessary,” he continued.