How to Layer
Most skincare problems are not ingredient problems. They are order problems. The same serum can plump or pill depending on what went on before it. This is the sequence we build every ritual around.
The rule
Thinnest to thickest. Water-based before oil-based. Treatments before the layer that seals them in. If you remember nothing else, remember that.
The sequence
1. Cleanse
Once in the morning, once at night. At night, an oil-to-milk cleanser removes sunscreen and makeup without stripping; a gel cleanser suits oilier skin. Skin should feel clean, not tight.
2. Tone or mist
Optional, but useful. A hydrating toner or prebiotic mist leaves the skin slightly damp, which is exactly what the next step wants.
3. Treat
Serums, boosters and targeted treatments go on damp skin, thinnest first. A hyaluronic gel, then a vitamin C or peptide serum. Give each thirty seconds before the next. Use one or two, not four.
4. Eyes
A small amount, pressed rather than rubbed, along the orbital bone. Before moisturizer so it is not diluted.
5. Moisturize
This is the seal. Choose by skin type rather than by trend: a gel for oily skin, a cream for dry, a barrier cream at night when skin is reactive.
6. Oil (night)
If you use a face oil or a bakuchiol renewal oil, it goes last. Oil sits on top of everything else and should never go under a water-based serum.
7. Protect (morning)
Sunscreen finishes the morning ritual. We do not currently make one; use one you trust and apply it generously.
Exfoliants and masks
These are not daily steps. A lactic acid peel or a clay mask replaces the treat step once or twice a week, at night, followed by moisturizer only. Do not layer actives on freshly exfoliated skin.
Why it pills
Pilling almost always means too much product, too fast, in the wrong order. Use less, wait longer, and put water-based layers before oil-based ones.