How Do I Layer Multiple Serums?

July 08, 2020

Serums have become every skincare enthusiast’s best friend, and a kind of secret weapon for getting clear, glowing, plump skin, no matter what skin type you have. Serums are made up of high concentrations of active ingredients, with smaller molecular structures so they can penetrate deep into the skin. They often target specific skin concerns, such as wrinkles, blemishes, dull skin, or loss of firmness, to name a few!

With so many great benefits, who wouldn’t want to hedge their bets and apply the lot? But Timeless Product Education Specialist, Shelly Leggins, recommends not layering more than 2 active ingredient serums at one time, in order to allow the serums to properly work their magic.

Which Serum Goes First?

Start with a Water-Based Serum, that Addresses Your #1 Skin Goal

Here is an example of how multiple serums and oils can fit into your skincare regimen.

After cleansing and toning (if desired):

1. Lightest weight, water-based serum
2. Heavier weight or less targeted, active ingredient serum
3. *Facial oil, either before moisturizer, added to moisturizer, or after moisturizer
4. Moisturizer followed by physical SPF

Vitamin C vs Retinol Serums

Apply more acidic products first, such as a Vitamin C serum. Retinols are formulated at a much higher pH, and along with Vitamin A, should not be used in combination with Vitamin C. It is best to use retinols at night because of their photosensitivity.

Serum Layering by Skin Type

Skin can be super tricky as it’s always changing, depending on your age, environment, season, diet…the list goes on! There are so many combinations of serums depending on your current skin concerns, so we’ve broken it down for you. Here are some suggested serum layering options for different skin types: dry, oily, combination, sensitive and normal. *Please note, that if you already have a routine that works for you that’s perfect, there is no black or white way to do it, just listen to your skin!  

Dry Skin

Recommended AM

1. Antioxidant and brightening 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum
2. HA 100% Pure to assist in delivery of active ingredients, or mixed into moisturizer
3. Heavier, omega rich oil, such as Argan Oil 100% Pure

Recommended PM

1. Powerful polypeptide serum Matrixyl Synthe 6™ 
2. Antioxidant CoEnzyme Q10 Serum
3. HA 100% along with Argan Oil 100% Pure

Oily Skin

Recommended AM

1. Brightening and lower dose Vitamin C serum Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C Serum  
2. Calming and repairing Vitamin B5 Serum 
3. Anti-bacterial ‘dry oil’ Squalane on its own, or after moisturizer

Recommended PM

1. Vitamin B5 Serum
2. Antioxidant CoEnzyme Q10 Serum
3. HA 100% Pure added to moisturizer

Combination Skin

Recommended AM

1. Antioxidant and brightening 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum
2. Calming and repairing Vitamin B5 Serum 
3. Add HA 100% Pure to moisturizer, or anti-bacterial ‘dry oil’ Squalane on its own, or after moisturizer

Recommended PM

1. Powerful polypeptide serum, Matrixyl Synthe 6™ 
2. Antioxidant CoEnzyme Q10 Serum
3. HA 100% Pure added to moisturizer 

Sensitive, Easily Irritated Skin 

Recommended AM

1. Brightening and lower dose Vitamin C serum, Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C Serum  
2. Calming and repairing Vitamin B5 Serum  

Recommended PM

1. Vitamin B5 Serum
2. 1-2 drops of Antioxidant CoEnzyme Q10 Serum (use sparingly first time) or omit 
3. HA 100% Pure added to moisturizer

Normal Skin

Recommended AM

1. Antioxidant and brightening 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum
2. Calming and repairing Vitamin B5 Serum  
3. HA 100% Pure added to moisturizer

Recommended PM

1. Collagen building serum Matrixyl 3000 ™
2. HA Oil 100% Pure added to moisturizer 

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