Why Order Matters in Skincare

Your skincare routine isn’t just about what you use — it’s about how you use it. Applying products in the wrong order can make them less effective, cause pilling, or even lead to irritation.

For sensitive skin, proper layering is even more important. By starting with lightweight hydrators and finishing with richer creams, you create a barrier that seals in actives while protecting your skin from irritation.

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The Golden Rule of Layering Skincare

Apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency.

• Thin liquids and serums go first so they can absorb deeply.

• Thicker creams and oils go last to lock everything in.

This method ensures your skin gets maximum benefits from each step — without blocking absorption.

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Step-by-Step Skincare Layering for Sensitive Skin

Step 1: Cleanser

Morning and night, start with a gentle, low-pH cleanser to remove dirt, makeup, and excess oil without stripping the skin.

💡 Pro Tip: For extremely dry or sensitive skin, you can skip cleanser in the morning and rinse with lukewarm water.

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Step 2: Toner or Mist (Optional)

If you use a hydrating toner, apply it now. For sensitive skin, avoid toners with alcohol or strong astringents.

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Step 3: Serums

Serums are concentrated treatments for specific skin concerns. For hydration and barrier support, start with the Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid.

• Why first? Serums have small molecules that need to penetrate deeply.

• Bonus: Ours also contains niacinamide to soothe redness and strengthen the skin barrier.

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Step 4: Treatment Actives (PM Only)

This is where you add products like retinol, vitamin C, or peptides.

• For sensitive skin using retinol, apply the Retinol Cream after hydrating serum — as part of the retinol sandwich method to reduce irritation.

• Vitamin C (like the Brightening Vitamin C Serum) should go on in the morning after serum but before moisturizer.

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Step 5: Eye Cream

The skin around the eyes is delicate and should be treated separately.

• Use the Radiant Eye Cream with Peptides before heavier creams so it can absorb effectively.

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Step 6: Moisturizer

Seal in hydration with the Lifting and Firming Face Cream.

• Formulated with ceramides, peptides, and niacinamide, it strengthens the skin’s defenses and locks in all the beneficial layers underneath.

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Step 7: Sunscreen (AM Only)

In the morning, sunscreen is always the final step.

• Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen to protect sensitive skin from UV damage.

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Example Layering Routine for Sensitive Skin

Morning:

1. Gentle cleanser

2. Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

3. Brightening Vitamin C Serum

4. Radiant Eye Cream with Peptides

5. Lifting and Firming Cream

6. Mineral sunscreen

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Evening:

1. Gentle cleanser

2. Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

3. Retinol Cream alternate nights)

4. Radiant Eye Cream with Peptides
   

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Common Layering Mistakes to Avoid

• Mixing too many strong actives in one routine (e.g., retinol + high-strength acids).

• Skipping moisturizer because skin feels oily — hydration is still essential.

• Not waiting between layers — give each product ~30 seconds to absorb before moving to the next.

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Why EpiLynx Products Layer So Well

• Lightweight but potent — our serums absorb quickly without leaving a sticky residue.

• Barrier-first philosophy — every product contains niacinamide to keep skin calm and strong.

• Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic — no hidden irritants that can disrupt your layering routine.

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Final Takeaway

Layering your skincare in the right order isn’t just about rules — it’s about helping every product work its best.

For sensitive skin, the ideal layering routine starts with lightweight hydration, adds targeted treatments, and finishes with protective creams and sunscreen. With EpiLynx hypoallergenic, gluten-free products, you can confidently build a routine that’s both gentle and effective.