During this time of year, the cold wind and dry air weaken the skin barrier and accelerate moisture loss, making it difficult to adequately protect the skin with usual skincare routines. In other seasons, it is sufficient to selectively use a few products suitable for your skin type, but in winter, it is important to layer multiple products in the correct order. Providing moisture as a foundation and adding nourishing ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier can help form a strong barrier and maintain healthy skin. Here is an overview of "How to Build a Healthy Skin Barrier in Winter" as published in the American health magazine, Health.

◇Step 1 = Cleansing is always the first step in skincare. You need to remove dust and dirt accumulated inside and outside the pores with a cleanser so that subsequent layered products can be absorbed well into the skin. It is best to choose a gentle, alcohol-free cleanser. This helps prevent excessive removal of skin oils, maintaining the balance of the skin barrier.

 

◇Step 2 = After cleansing with toner, soak a cotton pad with toner and gently pat it onto your face. Toner helps remove residual oil and dirt remaining after washing and aids in balancing the skin's pH level, which is its acidity. If you have dry or sensitive skin, choose a toner containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin to help hydrate your skin. For oily or acne-prone skin, it is better to select a toner containing salicylic acid.

 

Step 3 = After the serum, apply an appropriate amount of serum to the skin surface. Serums contain high concentrations of active ingredients and are effective in providing moisture, brightening, and improving specific skin concerns. Choose a product with ingredients suitable for your desired effects. ▲Vitamin C = Brightening, pigmentation reduction ▲Niacinamide = Brightening, wrinkle improvement ▲Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, Ceramides, Glycerin = Moisturizing ▲AHA = Exfoliation ▲Salicylic Acid = Acne relief, etc.

 

◇Step 4 = After applying the retinol serum, you should apply retinol or other retinoid-containing products. Since retinoids thicken the skin layers, it is best to use them after the active ingredients in the serum have been absorbed into the skin. Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that increase cell turnover, resulting in skin whitening, wrinkle reduction, and improved skin texture. However, retinol can cause irritation to the skin, so it should be used in small amounts and gradually adapted to the skin. For the first two weeks, use a pea-sized amount every other day and gradually increase the amount.

 

◇Level 5 = Moisturizer Moisturizers have a thick consistency and should be applied after functional products such as serums and retinoids. They seal in skin moisture and help maintain a strong barrier, but may also prevent some functional products from being absorbed into the skin. For dry skin, choose moisturizers containing ceramides or shea butter, while for oily or acne-prone skin, it is better to select lightweight, gel-type, oil-free moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid.

 

◇Level 6 = Face Oil Face oil functions by forming an oil barrier on the skin to prevent moisture evaporation and to balance oil and moisture levels. Since it acts as a barrier on the surface of the skin, it is advisable to apply it at the very last step of layering. Face oils rich in fatty acids, such as coconut and avocado oils, provide nutrients and moisture to the skin, while chamomile and rosehip oils help soothe irritated skin.

 

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It seems like you're only not using face oil.

Oil forms a moisture barrier.

It seems to end with moisturizing.