January 24, 2023
Over the years I've seen many clients get super confused about layering their skincare products. I've helped clients unravel the mystery of layering Retin A, facial oils, gels, creams, essences, toners, ampoules, sunscreen etc. Layering products doesn't have to be rocket science. However, there are a few issues to avoid...
For example, we generally know that it's best to layer from thinnest to thickest in consistency. But what about facial oils? Retin A? Alpha hydroxy acids?
Facial oils are always applied last AT NIGHT ONLY since sunscreen doesn't sit well on top of an oil. If you apply something after the oil, it cannot absorb since the oil forms an occlusive layer, blocking what comes next. I've even seen this happen to clients who use very creamy cleansers that leave a slip on the skin. One example is the brand Goop's creamy cleanser. A client invested in some NeoGenesis products (serums that are very waterlike in consistency.) You can guess what happened next. NOTHING! I saw her a month later and was confused. I expected improved skin. Upon quizzing her further about her routine we discovered the culprit. The creamy but OCCLUSIVE cleanser she was using. (Not all creamy cleansers do this. My line's creamy cleanser doesn't, for example.)
When it comes to Retin-A, always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Once that absorbs, (you usually wait a half hour before another product) you can apply your serums and then moisturizer IF THE RETIN A is a GEL. If it's a cream it gets tricky. Still, I find NeoGenesis and other serums seem to absorb fine if the timing between the layering is at least a half hour. It gives the Retin A time to get where it can work before another product is applied.
When it comes to layering in Alpha hydroxy acids, I like to double cleanse my face, apply the acid, and wait 5 minutes. Then I'm free to apply the next serum I'm using. If you apply a serum right after without waiting a beat, the acid gets diluted and doesn't work as well.
There you have it. Apply thinnest to thickest with these few exceptions. Do you have layering questions? Hit reply and let me know!
March 10, 2025
With spring cleaning in mind, it’s time to lighten your beauty product load and invest in one product that gets the job done. Keep reading for more about Korean skin care, the benefits of cushion foundation, and my new fave product: the KLAVUU - Blue Pearlsation Cushion SPF50+.
March 03, 2025
When it comes to skincare, sometimes less is more. With so many products on the market promising to combat all kinds of skin concerns, it can be overwhelming to know what you actually need. If your bathroom is overflowing with dozens of serums, lotions, and potions you've only used a handful of times, it might be time to take a minimalist approach to your skincare routine... a practice with a trending new name, "skinimalism"!
February 24, 2025
Korean beauty products and trends have been taking the world by storm for the past several years, and show no signs of slowing down! The cutting-edge K-beauty industry is known for creating highly effective, scientifically-advanced products. With decades of research behind it, a K-beauty routine is a luxurious form of self-care that will work double-time to hydrate, brighten, nourish, and repair your skin.
Have a product question or an inquiry about your order? Send an e-mail to support@christinebyeresthetics.com or click here and we will reply within 48 hours Monday-Friday. Our office is closed weekends and holidays.