How To Layer An Acid Serum Into Your Skincare Routine

Dec 3

How

I recommend keeping it simple when using acid serums. Let them be the "star of the show" since mixing many other ingredients/products could cause irritation or alter the pH of a pH-dependent ingredient.

Cleanser
Toner
Acid serum - wait for 1 to 2 minutes until it drys
Moisturizer and/or Face Oil
Eye Cream

When

I usually recommend using these types of products in your evening routine. It leaves room in your daytime routine for antioxidants like vitamin C serum, which can irritate if layered with an acid serum. Depending on your skin type, skin conditions you are trying to treat, and skin sensitivity, acid serums can be used once a week, a few times a week, or every other day.

Why

Acid serums have many skin benefits, and they may be formulated with one acid or a blend that works synergistically. I've added a chart on the second page breaking down the different types of acids. Here are some of the benefits that acid serums provide:

It helps to restore moisture and plumpness in the skin
Jumps start and facilitate collagen production.
Softens fine lines + wrinkles
It helps fade sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-inflammatory pigmentation leftover from acne
Increases cellular turnover
It gives the skin a "glow"
It helps other ingredients penetrate better (such as antioxidants + vitamins)
Smoothes tone + texture
It helps remove a surface layer of dead skin, allowing pores to excrete oil properly and prevent blackheads/clogged pores in long-term use.
The long-term effects of acid use are they send positive signals to the bottom of the epidermis to produce healthier skin cells. This results in the stimulation of collagen and improved fine lines and wrinkles.