Why the Order of Skincare is Very Important for Skin Health

Kapanlagi.com - Proper facial care is the secret to achieving healthy, clean, and radiant skin. Nowadays, more and more people are realizing how important a regular skincare routine is, including the use of face masks as part of their beauty ritual. Face masks are not only effective in addressing skin issues such as acne and dull skin, but they also provide hydration and additional nutrients that the skin desperately needs.

However, one question that often arises is "should I use a mask first or skincare first?" This question can be confusing, especially for those who are just starting their skincare journey. Understanding the order of using skincare products is crucial so that we can maximize the benefits of each step in our skincare routine.

1. The Importance of Skincare Order

Before we explore the ideal order, it is important to understand the reasons behind it. Dr. Annie Chiu, a board-certified dermatologist referenced by Healthline, explains that the order of application of skincare products greatly affects the absorption and effectiveness of active ingredients. If application is done carelessly, the benefits of the products may be diminished and can even risk causing irritation to the skin.

By using products in the correct order, we ensure that each active ingredient can function optimally, thereby providing the best results for our skin health. Therefore, knowing the proper steps in a skincare routine is very important.

2. 7 Recommended Skincare Steps

As reported by several sources on Tuesday (29/10), here is the order recommended by experts, including when to use masks:

3. Facial Cleanser

Skincare can begin with cleansing the face to remove dirt, oil, and makeup residue. This process is very important because clean skin is ready to absorb subsequent skincare products better. With thorough cleansing, you can ensure that the skin is not hindered by leftover dirt that could interfere with the absorption of active ingredients from other products.

4. Toner

After cleansing the face, apply toner to restore the skin's pH balance and provide the initial moisture needed. Toner not only prepares the skin to better absorb serums and subsequent treatment products, but it is also effective in lifting any leftover cleanser that may remain, making your skin cleaner and fresher.

5. Serum

To optimally care for the skin, choose a serum rich in active ingredients such as vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, as its lightweight texture allows for quick absorption by the skin. This serum is specifically designed to address specific issues such as early signs of aging or dark spots, making it an important step before proceeding to other treatments for maximum results.

6. Mask (Optional)

Here is the answer to the question "mask first or skincare first." Masks should ideally be used after cleansing and toner, but before other treatment products. Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, recommends using masks 1-3 times a week, depending on skin type and specific needs. Using a mask after toner ensures that the nutrients from the mask can be absorbed well, providing more effective results for the skin.

7. Eye Cream

Gently apply eye cream around the eye area to address issues such as dark circles and fine lines, as the skin around the eyes is very sensitive and requires special attention to stay healthy. Using eye cream after the mask will provide extra moisture and nutrients that the skin in that area desperately needs.

8. Moisturizer

Moisturizers play an important role in locking in moisture and nutrients from previous skincare products, ensuring that your skin remains hydrated and free from a dry and dull appearance. Choosing a moisturizer that suits your skin type will not only provide maximum benefits but also enhance the overall effectiveness of your skincare routine.

9. Sunscreen (Daytime)

As the final step in your morning routine, don’t forget sunscreen, which serves to protect the skin from harmful UV rays that can cause damage. Therefore, using sunscreen is a crucial step in maintaining skin health. Choose a sunscreen with the appropriate SPF according to the activities you will be doing to maximize your skin protection.

10. The Right Time to Use a Mask

Face masks can be used one to three times a week, depending on skin type and specific needs. Here are some tips for using masks:

• Sheet Mask: Use after toner and before serum for direct hydration.
• Clay Mask: Apply after cleansing and before toner, helping to control oil and cleanse pores.
• Sleeping Mask: Use as the last step in your nighttime routine to maintain skin moisture throughout the night.

11. Adjustment Based on Skin Type

Dr. Hadley King, a clinical dermatologist in New York City, emphasizes the importance of tailoring your routine to your skin type.

• Oily Skin: Focus on non-comedogenic products and use clay masks to control excess oil.
• Dry Skin: Prioritize hydration with hyaluronic serum and moisturizing sheet masks.
• Sensitive Skin: Choose hypoallergenic products and perform a patch test before using new masks to avoid allergic reactions.

12. Common Mistakes in Skincare Routine

After understanding the order of using masks and their benefits, you also need to recognize common mistakes often made in skincare routines:

• Using a mask after moisturizer, which can reduce its effectiveness and hinder nutrient absorption.
• Applying serum after moisturizer, which hinders the penetration of active ingredients into the skin.
• Not allowing enough time for each product to absorb before moving on to the next step.

By following the correct order and adjusting it to your skin's needs, you can maximize the benefits of each skincare product used. Consistency in skincare is key to achieving optimal results in the long term. Regularly following these steps and paying attention to your skin's response to the products used will help you achieve healthy and radiant skin.

13. Questions and Answers About Skincare and Mask Usage

Is it okay to use a mask every day?

Facial masks should ideally be used one to three times a week, depending on skin type and the type of mask used. Using a mask too often can cause irritation or imbalance in the skin.

14. When is the best time to maximize the use of facial masks?

Facial masks should be used after cleansing and toning, but before serum and moisturizer. This ensures that the nutrients from the mask can be well absorbed by the skin.

15. Do skincare routines differ based on skin type?

Yes, skincare routines should be tailored to the skin type. For example, oily skin may benefit more from clay masks, while dry skin should use sheet masks for added hydration.

16. What happens if you use a mask after moisturizer?

Using a mask after moisturizer can reduce the effectiveness of the mask, as the moisturizer can create a barrier that hinders the penetration of the active ingredients from the mask into the skin.

(kpl/moy)