Spring is in the air and that means more skin showing coming into summer. With any change of season, it’s important to take your skincare into account.
If you’re a skincare enthusiast like me, you’ve probably heard of skincare layering. It’s an art, a ritual and a science that transforms your skin from ordinary to extraordinary. But why is skincare layering so fabulous for your skin? And why should we be layering all over, not just on our faces?
Let’s dive into the wonders of skincare layering, the steps involved, and why this holistic approach is a game-changer for your skin’s health. I’m slightly obsessed…
What is skincare layering?
Think of skincare layering as creating a beautiful, multi-tiered cake for your skin – each layer serving a unique purpose and nourishing your skin at a deeper level.
Skincare layering involves applying different products in a specific order, each one complementing the other to enhance your skin’s natural radiance, elasticity and overall health. From cleansing and toning to serums, moisturisers and balms, each layer adds a new level of care, feeding your skin with nutrients, superfoods, vitamins, minerals and omegas that harness the power of nature.
Why skincare layering is so good for your skin:
Provides deep moisture hydration
Every layer adds a boost of hydration, locking in moisture at different levels of the skin. The result? Your skin feels plump, supple and dewy from the inside out. This deep hydration is particularly important because dehydrated skin can lead to premature ageing, dullness and irritation.
Boosts skin elasticity
Using nutrient-rich products like superfoods, vitamins and omegas in your layering routine helps support collagen production and maintains skin elasticity. The more elastic your skin, the younger and firmer it looks!
Rejuvenates skin cells
Skincare layering encourages active ingredients to penetrate deeply, rejuvenating skin cells and promoting a healthy cell turnover rate. This means fewer fine lines, improved texture and a more even complexion.
Protects against environmental damage
By layering products, you create a barrier that not only locks in hydration but also shields your skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays.
Prevents product overload
When you layer correctly, each product is given time to absorb into the skin before the next one is applied, which prevents clogging and maximises each product’s benefits.
Steps to perfect skincare layering:
- Cleanser – Start with a gentle cleanser or wash to remove dirt, oil and impurities.
- Mist – Follow with a hydrating mist to balance your skin’s pH levels and prep it for the next steps.
- Serum – Apply a serum rich in antioxidants, vitamins and peptides to target specific concerns like ageing, pigmentation, breakouts or dullness.
- Moisturiser – Seal everything with a moisturiser to keep your skin soft, smooth and hydrated.
- Balm – Lock in moisture with a nourishing facial balm that provides deep hydration and healing properties.
- Sunscreen – Ensure your layering routine includes sun protection made from natural sources to protect your skin from UV damage.
Whole body care: Layer everywhere, not just your face
Why stop at your face? The skin is the largest organ in your body, and it needs love everywhere! Imagine only caring for one part of your liver or heart – that wouldn’t make sense, right?
Your skin, like any organ, functions best when it’s holistically nurtured. The health of the skin on your body directly impacts the skin on your face. A glowing face comes from an overall glowing body. Think of your body the same way you think of your face: one organ, needing the same kind of layering.
After each application, allow 2 to 3 minutes for each layer to be absorbed by your skin before applying the next layer:
- Body lotion – After washing, apply a thin layer of body lotion.
- Body oil – To lock in moisture and bring about skin healing, a good body oil can take your skin health to new heights. Look for superfood-rich oils that offer incredible benefits.
- Body butter – Finish off with a rich body butter that brings out the glow and leaves your skin fully hydrated and moisturised all-day long.
Here’s why full-body layering is essential:
- Improves circulation – Applying bodycare products in layers encourages massaging, which boosts blood flow and stimulates lymphatic drainage, helping your skin stay firm and toned.
- Prevents ageing – The skin on your neck, hands and body is also prone to ageing, and layering helps prevent wrinkles, dryness and sagging.
- Supports detoxification – Layering with natural, toxin-free products can help your skin breathe, detoxify and regenerate.
- Enhances overall health – When your entire body is well-moisturised and healthy, it contributes to better overall skin function, leading to radiant, healthy skin everywhere.
The bottom line: Layer with love, everywhere!
Skincare layering is an art that goes beyond just the face. It’s a beautiful, holistic approach to skin health that ensures every inch of your body receives the nutrients, moisture and love it deserves. This in turn creates happiness because when your skin is healthy and glowing, you feel happy and able to achieve your dreams.
When we embrace full-body skincare, we’re not just enhancing our beauty routine; we’re investing in the health of our largest organ, and that’s something to love!
So, grab your favourite toxin-free, nutrient-rich products and start layering – your skin will thank you!
Nicole Sherwin
Founder: Eco Diva Natural Superfood Skincare
Image credit: Anastasia Kazakova/Freepik