Do you diligently follow your skincare routine, layering serum after serum to achieve that radiant glow? But wait, what about sunscreen? Should it be the last step in your regimen, or can it be applied after serum? In this article, we unravel the mystery and provide you with the ultimate answer.

Get ready to discover the truth behind this skincare conundrum as we delve into each approach’s scientific rationale, pros, and cons. Whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll find valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about your skincare routine.

Say goodbye to confusion and hello to a radiant, protected complexion! 

Let’s dive in.

Understanding sunscreen and serum

Sunscreen protects your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Its primary purpose is to prevent sunburn, skin damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Applying sunscreen regularly can help shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays, which can cause premature aging, sunspots, and other sun-related skin issues.

By forming a barrier on the skin’s surface, sunscreen acts as a shield, reflecting or absorbing the UV rays and preventing them from penetrating the deeper layers of the skin.

Sunscreens are available in two main types: chemical and physical (also known as mineral) sunscreens.

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. They contain ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone. They tend to be lightweight, blend effortlessly into the skin, and offer broad-spectrum protection.

Physical sunscreens create a barrier on the skin that reflects and scatters UV rays away from the skin’s surface. They often contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Physical sunscreens are gentle on the skin and provide immediate protection upon application. They are less likely to cause skin irritation, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

What about serum?

Serums are lightweight skincare products formulated with a high concentration of active ingredients. They are designed to deliver targeted benefits to the skin, addressing specific concerns and providing enhanced nourishment.

Serums have a thinner consistency compared to moisturizers, allowing them to penetrate deeply into the skin.

Their potent formulations can provide various benefits, including hydration, brightening, anti-aging, and more. Serums often address skincare concerns such as fine lines, uneven skin tone, or dullness.

Serums come in different formulations to cater to specific skincare needs.

Hydration serums are formulated to boost and retain the skin’s moisture levels. They often contain humectant ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides, which help to hydrate and plump the skin.

Brightening serums focus on reducing hyperpigmentation and dark spots and improving overall skin radiance. They often contain ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or licorice extract, which help to even out the skin tone and promote a brighter complexion.

Anti-aging serums target signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. They typically contain ingredients like retinol, peptides, or antioxidants, which can help stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

What is the order of applying skincare products?

When layering skincare products, a general rule of thumb is to apply them from lightest to heaviest consistency. This allows each product to be effectively absorbed into the skin without being blocked by heavier formulations.

Starting with lightweight products ensures better penetration and absorption of active ingredients, maximizing their benefits.

Layering skincare products is essential because it allows you to address different skincare concerns and provide your skin with various nutrients and treatments.

Each product serves a specific purpose, and layering them in the correct order ensures that they can work synergistically and deliver optimal results. Think of it as building a solid foundation for your skincare routine, where each layer adds another level of nourishment and protection.

How to correctly apply serum and sunscreen?

Before all, it’s crucial to start with a clean canvas. Cleanse your face to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup residue. Follow it up with toning, which helps balance the skin’s pH level and prepares it for better absorption of subsequent products.

To apply serum, take a small amount onto your fingertips and gently press or pat it onto your skin. Start from the center of your face and work outwards, covering your entire face and neck if desired. Allow the serum a few minutes to absorb fully into your skin before moving on to the next step.

Applying sunscreen as the final step in your skincare routine ensures adequate protection against harmful UV rays. Here’s how to ensure proper sunscreen application:

Choose the right sunscreen. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect against UVA and UVB rays. Look for a sunscreen that suits your skin type and preferences, whether chemical or physical.

Take a sufficient amount of sunscreen and apply it evenly over your face, neck, and any exposed skin areas. Don’t forget commonly missed areas like the ears, back of the neck, and hands. Consider using at least a teaspoon amount for your face to ensure proper coverage.

Reapply throughout the day every two hours or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. This ensures continuous protection and minimizes the risk of sunburn or skin damage.

Why is applying the serum before sunscreen the best approach?

It is based on scientific rationale and an understanding of how different products interact with the skin.

Serums are formulated with smaller molecules and higher concentrations of active ingredients. Applying them first allows these potent ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin and deliver their targeted benefits.

By applying the serum before sunscreen, you ensure that the active ingredients have the best chance of reaching their intended target areas and providing the desired effects.

Are there alternative approaches?

Some people prefer the convenience of mixing serum and sunscreen before applying them to the skin. While this approach may seem time-saving, it’s essential to consider a few factors:

Not all serums and sunscreens are designed to be mixed. Some ingredients may interact and potentially reduce the effectiveness of both products. It’s crucial to check the compatibility of the specific serum and sunscreen you’re using before attempting to mix them.

Mixing sunscreen with other products can dilute its sun protection factor (SPF). This may result in inadequate sun protection, putting your skin at risk of sun damage. Following the instructions provided by the manufacturers regarding applying individual products for optimal results is recommended.

Hybrid serum-sunscreen products are available in the market, combining the benefits of serums and sunscreens. These products are formulated to provide skincare benefits along with sun protection. To be on the safe side:

Check the SPF level of the hybrid product to ensure it meets your sun protection needs. Ideally, choose a product with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher.

Consider whether the hybrid product provides sufficient concentrations of active ingredients found in traditional serums to address your specific skincare concerns. A dedicated serum may still be necessary if you have particular concerns or goals.

If you’re uncertain about the order or combination of skincare products, it’s advisable to consult with a skincare professional. They can assess your skin type, concerns, and goals to provide personalized advice and recommend a skincare routine tailored to your needs.

A skincare professional can help you understand the compatibility of different products, suggest effective alternatives, and guide you toward optimal skincare practices. They may recommend specific serums, sunscreens, or other products based on your skin’s requirements.

How can you improve your skincare routine?

Before selecting a serum and sunscreen, it’s essential to understand your skin type. Is your skin oily, dry, combination, or sensitive? This knowledge will help you choose products catering to your needs and concerns.

Look for serums and sunscreens that are formulated specifically for your skin type. For example, if you have oily skin, opt for lightweight, oil-free serums and sunscreens that won’t feel heavy or greasy. For dry skin, consider serums with hydrating ingredients and moisturizing sunscreens.

Research online reviews and seek recommendations from trusted sources, such as dermatologists or skincare experts. Their expertise can guide you in selecting high-quality products suitable for your skin type.

Consistency is vital when it comes to skincare. Establish a daily routine that includes cleansing, toning, applying serum, and finishing with sunscreen. Following this routine ensures that your skin receives daily care and protection.

A wide-brimmed hat provides extra protection by shading your face, neck, and shoulders from direct sunlight. It helps to reduce the exposure of your skin to harmful UV rays.

Sunglasses with UV protection shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays and also help prevent squinting, which can lead to fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes.

When the sun’s rays are the strongest, typically between 10 am and 4 pm, seek shade whenever possible. This reduces your skin’s exposure to intense sunlight and minimizes the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

Conclusion

The issue of whether it is OK to apply sunscreen after serum has been thoroughly explored. While there are differing opinions, it’s clear that the best approach is to apply serum before sunscreen.

By following this order, you allow the active ingredients in the serum to penetrate the skin effectively while still ensuring the protective benefits of sunscreen. Applying sunscreen as the final step in your skincare routine forms a barrier that shields your skin from harmful UV rays.

Consistency and proper application are vital in achieving optimal results. So, embrace this knowledge, customize your skincare routine accordingly, and enjoy the benefits of both serum and sunscreen for healthy, radiant skin protected from the sun’s harmful effects. Stay glowing and stay protected!

Thank you for reading!

Valeria