When it comes to skincare, the order in which you apply your products can make a huge difference in the effectiveness of your routine.
One question that often arises is whether to use witch hazel before or after moisturizer. The answer may surprise you.
Always apply witch hazel before putting on moisturiser. As a toner, Witch hazel is meant to be used on the face after cleansing but before moisturising in order to restore the skin’s natural pH balance.
Witch hazel MUST be used before moisturizers. After washing your face with your preferred facial cleanser and patting it dry with a soft cloth, apply your preferred witch hazel formulation before following up with a moisturiser.
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that has been used for centuries for its healing properties. It is known for its ability to tighten pores, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritated skin.
However, many people are unsure of where it fits into their skincare routine, and whether they should use it before or after applying moisturizer.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of witch hazel and how to incorporate it into your daily skincare routine for optimal results.
The Benefits Of Witch Hazel For Your Skin
Witch hazel has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various skin conditions. Its astringent properties make it an effective choice for reducing inflammation, redness, and oiliness.
Witch hazel uses also include treating acne, reducing the appearance of pores, and soothing sunburns. One of the main skin benefits of witch hazel is its ability to remove excess oil without drying out the skin.
This makes it a great option for those with oily or combination skin types. Additionally, it can help to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
With all these benefits, it’s no wonder why witch hazel has become a staple in many skincare routines.
Understanding The Role Of Astringents In Skincare
Astringents are an essential part of any skincare routine, but it’s crucial to understand their role and how to use them correctly.
These products can help remove excess oil, tighten pores, and improve the overall appearance of the skin. However, using the wrong type of astringent or overusing them can cause more harm than good.
Types of Astringents
- Witch hazel: a natural astringent that can soothe inflamed skin and reduce redness.
- Salicylic acid: commonly found in acne treatments, salicylic acid helps unclog pores and prevent breakouts.
- Alcohol-based toners: these astringents can be too harsh for some skin types and should be used sparingly.
- Tea tree oil: a natural antiseptic that can help control oil production and reduce inflammation.
When to Avoid Astringents.
While astringents can have many benefits for the skin, there are certain situations when they should be avoided. For example, if you have dry or sensitive skin, using an alcohol-based toner could cause irritation or even make your skin drier.
Additionally, if you’re already using other exfoliating products like retinol or glycolic acid, adding an astringent could be too much for your skin to handle.
Incorporating astringents into your skincare routine can help keep your skin looking healthy and radiant. By understanding the different types of astringents available and when to avoid them, you’ll be able to choose the right product for your specific needs.
Remember to always patch test new products before incorporating them into your daily routine and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns about using astringents on your skin.
How To Incorporate Witch Hazel Into Your Routine
Now that we’ve discussed the role of astringents in skincare, let’s focus on incorporating witch hazel into your routine.
One common question people have is whether to use witch hazel before or after moisturizer. The answer is that it depends on the type of product you’re using.
First, let’s talk about the benefits of toners in general. Toners can help balance your skin’s pH, remove any remaining dirt or makeup, and prep your skin for the rest of your routine.
Witch hazel is a popular ingredient in toners because it has natural astringent properties that can help tighten pores and reduce inflammation.
When using a witch hazel toner, you should apply it after cleansing but before moisturizing. This will ensure that your skin is clean and prepped for the rest of your routine while also getting the benefits of witch hazel.
There are also different types of witch hazel products available, such as facial mists and spot treatments. For facial mists, you can use them throughout the day as a refreshing pick-me-up or to set your makeup.
Simply spritz it onto your face and let dry before continuing with your day. For spot treatments, apply directly to any blemishes or areas of inflammation before moisturizing.
Incorporating witch hazel into your routine can be a great way to improve the overall health and appearance of your skin. Remember to always patch-test new products and listen to your skin’s needs when deciding how often to use them.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to glowing, healthy skin!
The Importance Of Proper Product Layering
Product order is a crucial aspect of any skincare routine. Applying products in the wrong order can lead to skincare mistakes that can worsen your skin problems. To ensure your skincare products work effectively, you should layer them correctly.
To start with, always apply your lighter products first and then move on to the heavier ones. This is because heavier products have larger molecules that may not penetrate through lighter ones.
Also, make sure you allow each product to settle for at least 30 seconds before applying the next one so that it has time to absorb into your skin properly.
Moreover, when it comes to moisturizing, always apply it after using toner or any other water-based product like witch hazel. This will help lock in all the nutrients from the previous steps and keep your skin hydrated throughout the day.
In addition, if you’re using an oil-based serum, apply it after moisturizer as this will help prevent it from forming a barrier over the moisturizer which can stop it from penetrating your skin effectively.
Overall, understanding how to layer your skincare products is key if you want to achieve healthy and glowing skin.
By following these simple rules of product order and allowing adequate time between applications, you’ll be able to maximize the benefits of each product and avoid common skincare mistakes.
Remember that consistency is key when it comes to a good skincare routine, so take your time and enjoy pampering yourself every day!
Tips For Maximizing The Effectiveness Of Your Skincare Routine
When it comes to skincare routines, consistency is key. This means sticking to a routine and using products in the correct order, whether it’s your morning or night routine.
It can be helpful to establish a routine that works for you and your lifestyle, taking into account factors such as your skin type, concerns, and preferences.
In terms of using witch hazel, it should typically be applied after cleansing but before moisturizing. This allows the witch hazel to effectively remove any remaining impurities on the skin while also providing some hydration.
However, it’s important to note that everyone’s skin is different, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for you. Remember to be patient and consistent with your routine for maximum effectiveness.
Conclusion
Never apply lotion without first using witch hazel. Use Witch hazel as intended, after cleansing and prior to moisturising, to bring the skin’s pH back to a healthy level.
After washing your face with your preferred facial cleanser and patting it dry with a soft cloth, apply your preferred witch hazel formulation and wait a few minutes before proceeding with your chosen facial moisturiser.
Using witch hazel in your skincare routine can provide numerous benefits for your skin. It is important to understand the role of astringents and how they can help balance your skin’s pH levels.
When incorporating witch hazel into your routine, it is essential to layer it properly after cleansing but before moisturizing.
Remember that proper product layering is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of your skincare routine.
It is also best to pair witch hazel with a moisturizer to avoid over-drying your skin4. In general, skincare products should be applied from thinnest to thickest, so after applying witch hazel, you can follow up with a lightweight moisturizer2.
Don’t forget to also take into consideration any other products you may be using and their compatibility with witch hazel.
By following these tips and understanding the importance of a consistent skincare routine, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin.
