How To Layer Your Skincare

How to layer your skincare

Back in the day, it used to be ‘cleanse, tone, moisturise’ and we’d be set. But as skincare technology quickly advanced (yay!) we were able to target our skin concerns, tailor our skincare to us, and create a regimen for each day of the week that we can change whenever our skin changes.

However, sometimes with choice comes stress and if you’re not super skincare-savvy (we get it, you’re busy!) then you might not have the time to work out what you need and in what order. That’s where we come in. Here’s a fuss-free guide to get you on your way.

1 – Cleanse

Arguably the most important step, cleansing takes off make-up and washes away bacteria, impurities, and excess oil. This is necessary for the health of our skin and protecting the skin barrier. Look for a gentle cleanser and be mindful of harsh surfactants (like soap) as these can lead to dryness and an overproduction of oil as the skin tries to re-balance.

Trilogy tip: If you’ve worn an SPF that day (which we hope you are) or if you’ve worn make-up, we strongly recommend a double cleanse.

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2 – Exfoliate

There are a few options when it comes to exfoliation. A clean, damp, warm cloth, physical exfoliants like jojoba beads or powdered pumice, or chemical exfoliants like AHAs. Use whichever is best for your skin, but always remember to exfoliate. Consistent exfoliation whether it be once a day, three times a week or once a week will help buff, polish, and encourage skin cell renewal for a beautiful glow.
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3 – Mask

This is an optional step but if you feel like your skin needs some extra love – then this is when you’ll give it that. Face masks work by driving ingredients closer and deeper into the skin, infusing your pores and allowing the skin to soak up more of the product. The best part? You can apply your mask then make yourself a cup of tea and relax while it dries before you gently rinse. Such a self-care moment we say.

Trilogy tip: Most face masks should be used about once per week. However, some skin types may benefit from more frequent application.
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4 – Tone

Toners remove traces of make-up/cleansers/exfoliants before you begin the hydrating phase of layering. They prepare the skin for the rest of the skincare routine and balance the pH of the skin. Some toners come as spritzes and can be sprayed on throughout the day for a little pick-me-up.
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5 – Treat and protect

This is the time for serums and oils. From this point on, nothing is getting washed off, so this is where all the active products come into play.

The rule is serum first, then oil. But if you have a Trilogy booster treatment then that goes before both.

So:
Booster (optional)
Serum
Oil

If you have more than one serum (and you shouldn’t have more than two or three on the go at once) then start with the lightest in consistency and finish with the heaviest or thickest. Allow about 30 seconds between each product for them to adequately absorb.

Trilogy tip: You don’t need to avoid the eye area here! Because these products are lightweight, this area of our face will actually benefit from these lighter products.

6 – Eye care

The skin around our eye is very delicate so it needs its own skincare. If your product allows you to apply with a built-in applicator, use that. If not use your ring finger to tap it in. This is our weakest finger so we’re less likely to overdo the pressure. Look for light, fragrance-free formulations. And only the smallest amount is needed: the size of a grain of rice.
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7 - Hydrate

Like cleansing, moisturising is a non-negotiable. Not only do they provide a decent layer of hydration, but moisturisers also help to lock in all the hard work achieved by all the other layers. During the day, moisturising is the penultimate step before your SPF and at night it is the final step.

Seasonality comes into play with moisturisers as well: opt for lighter lotions in summer and heavier creams in winter or if your skin is particularly dry.
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