When it comes to skincare, knowing the correct order in which to apply your products can make all the difference. One of the most debated questions is whether you should apply moisturizer or sunscreen first.
The truth is, the order matters more than you might think, and getting it right can significantly enhance the effectiveness of both products, helping to protect and nourish your skin the way it’s meant to be.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the science behind moisturizers and sunscreens, explore the correct application order, and give you practical tips to improve your skincare routine.
By the end, you’ll understand exactly why the order matters and how to properly protect and hydrate your skin.
The Basics of Skincare Layering
Before we get into the nitty gritty of whether moisturizer or sunscreen should come first, it’s important to understand the basics of skincare layering.
Each skincare product serves a unique purpose and can benefit your skin only if applied correctly. Applying products in the wrong order can compromise their ability to work effectively. Here’s a quick breakdown:
The Role of Moisturizers
Moisturizers are designed to hydrate the skin, prevent moisture loss, and create a barrier that locks in hydration.
They are usually made with ingredients such as humectants (e.g., glycerin), emollients (e.g., ceramides), and occlusives (e.g., petrolatum) that work together to keep your skin soft, plump, and well moisturized.
Moisturizing is a critical step in maintaining the skin’s health, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin.
The Role of Sunscreens
Sunscreens, on the other hand, protect your skin from harmful UV rays. UV radiation from the sun is responsible for skin aging, sunburns, and can even contribute to skin cancer.
Sunscreen forms a protective layer on your skin that either absorbs or reflects UV light, preventing it from penetrating into your skin. It’s important to apply sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, to minimize the long term damage caused by sun exposure.
Understanding the Ingredients in Sunscreen and Moisturizer
To understand the best way to layer your products, you need to know how sunscreens and moisturizers work. Let’s break down some key ingredients.
Sunscreen Ingredients: Physical vs. Chemical
- Physical Sunscreens: These contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which create a physical barrier on the skin’s surface, blocking UV rays from penetrating the skin. They are generally gentler and suitable for sensitive skin types.
- Chemical Sunscreens: These absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, preventing it from reaching your skin. Common ingredients include avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone. These are often lighter and easier to apply but may not work well for those with sensitive skin.
How Moisturizers Work
Moisturizers vary depending on the skin’s needs, but their general goal is to hydrate and protect the skin. Key moisturizing ingredients include:
- Humectants: Draw moisture into the skin, such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
- Emollients: Fill in the gaps between skin cells to smooth the skin’s texture, like ceramides and fatty acids.
- Occlusives: Form a barrier to prevent water loss, such as petrolatum and dimethicone.
Why the Order of Application Matters
Now that we understand what each product does, it’s easier to see why order matters. Sunscreen needs to sit on top of your skin, where it can form a protective layer.
If you apply a moisturizer first, it could dilute or disrupt the sunscreen’s effectiveness.
Sunscreen First: The Right Order
Most dermatologists and skincare experts recommend applying sunscreen last, even if you are using a moisturizer with SPF. Here’s why:
- Sunscreen Forms a Protective Layer: Sunscreen needs to be in direct contact with your skin to work effectively. Applying it after moisturizer ensures that it doesn’t get absorbed into the skin before it can do its job.
- Moisturizer Can Interfere with Sunscreen: If you apply moisturizer first, it may make the sunscreen less effective by diluting it or preventing it from forming a strong barrier on the skin.
- SPF Needs to Be Visible on the Skin’s Surface: For the best results, sunscreen needs to remain on the surface of the skin to reflect or absorb UV radiation. Moisturizers are designed to penetrate the skin, so applying them first could prevent sunscreen from sitting properly on your skin.
Moisturizer First: When It’s Okay
In certain cases, applying a moisturizer first can be beneficial, especially if you’re using a moisturizer with added SPF.
Here are a few situations where this might work:
- When the SPF is Low: If you’re using a low SPF (like SPF 15 or 20), applying a moisturizer with SPF first may provide added hydration while also offering some sun protection.
- When Using a Hydrating Sunscreen: Some sunscreens are formulated with moisturizing ingredients. In this case, you could apply a moisturizer with SPF, but only if the sunscreen has a high enough SPF (preferably 30 or above).
However, for maximum sun protection, it’s recommended to apply dedicated sunscreen on top of your moisturizer.
How to Properly Layer Your Skincare Products
To achieve the best skincare results, layering your products correctly is crucial. Here’s a step by step guide to layering your morning skincare routine:
Step by Step Skincare Routine
- Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oils, and impurities from your skin. This step ensures that your skin is clean and ready to absorb the next products.
- Tone (Optional): If you use a toner, apply it after cleansing. Toners can help balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for moisturizing.
- Apply Treatment Products: If you’re using serums, acne treatments, or other active ingredients (e.g., retinol, vitamin C), apply them next. Allow them to absorb before moving on.
- Moisturizer: Apply your moisturizer to hydrate and lock in moisture. If your skin is particularly dry, opt for a richer moisturizer.
- Sunscreen: Finish with sunscreen as your final step. Use about a nickel sized amount for your face and apply evenly across all exposed skin. Reapply every two hours if you’re outside.
What Happens If You Mix Up the Order?
If you apply sunscreen before moisturizer, it won’t work as well. Sunscreen needs to sit on the surface of your skin to block UV rays, but a moisturizer may interfere with this.
On the other hand, applying moisturizer after sunscreen (moisturizer or sunscreen) could result in your skin not getting enough protection from the sun’s rays.
What If You’re Using Both Moisturizer and Sunscreen with SPF?
Is Moisturizer with SPF Enough?
Moisturizers with SPF can be convenient, but they may not provide full protection against UV rays. Many people don’t apply enough product to achieve the SPF level listed on the label.
For proper protection, you should use a dedicated sunscreen with at least SPF 30, especially if you’ll be exposed to the sun for long periods.
When to Apply Both
If you’re looking for double protection, here’s what you should do:
- Moisturize First: Start with a moisturizer tha suits your skin type.
- Apply Sunscreen: Follow with a dedicated sunscreen with a high SPF (30+), especially if you’re going outside for more than 15 minutes.
This combination will give you the hydration from the moisturizer and the full protection from the sunscreen.
Additional Sunscreen Tips
- Reapply every two hours: Sunscreen can wear off due to sweating, swimming, or simply by natural wear. Keep reapplying throughout the day.
- Don’t forget your neck and ears: These areas are just as vulnerable to UV damage as your face.
- Use a broad spectrum sunscreen: This type of sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Skincare Tips for Different Skin Types
Different skin types require different products. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best products for your skin:
- Oily Skin: Look for oil free moisturizers and gel based sunscreens.
- Dry Skin: Opt for rich, hydrating moisturizers and creamy sunscreens.
- Sensitive Skin: Choose gentle, fragrance free products that are non comedogenic and contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera.
Myths and Misconceptions
Let’s tackle a few common myths related to sunscreen and moisturizer:
Myth 1: “Moisturizer with SPF is enough.”
As mentioned earlier, moisturizer with SPF may not offer full protection. Always check the SPF level and consider using a separate sunscreen for added protection.
Myth 2: “Applying sunscreen first makes it less effective.”
As long as the sunscreen is applied last, it will be effective. Sunscreen works best when it forms a barrier on the skin’s surface, so don’t worry if your moisturizer is applied first.
Conclusion
In summary, the right order to apply your skincare products is: Cleanse → Moisturize → Sunscreen. This order ensures that your skin stays hydrated, nourished, and protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
Always choose the correct products for your skin type, and remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day for optimal protection.
FAQs
Should I use moisturizer with SPF or a separate sunscreen?
If you’re looking for maximum protection, it’s best to use a separate sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.Can I skip sunscreen if I’m indoors?
UV rays can penetrate windows, so it’s best to apply sunscreen daily, even if you’re indoors.
How much sunscreen should I use?
Use about a nickel sized amount for your face. Apply it evenly for complete protection.
Can I use both moisturizer and sunscreen together?
Yes, moisturizer first, followed by sunscreen, is the best approach for optimal hydration and sun protection.
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes, sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date before using it.