after applying serum on face what to do at night
after applying serum on face what to do at night:- The nighttime skincare routine is a crucial aspect of maintaining healthy, radiant skin. Among the various products used, serums play a pivotal role in addressing specific skin concerns due to their concentrated formulations. However, many individuals are uncertain about the steps to follow after applying serum to their face at night. This uncertainty can lead to diminished efficacy of the serum and suboptimal results from your skincare regimen. In this comprehensive guide,
we will explore the essential steps to take after applying serum on your face as part of your evening skincare routine. Whether you’re new to skincare or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding these post-serum steps will help you maximize the benefits of your nighttime skincare routine and wake up to healthier, more vibrant skin.
Allow Proper Absorption Time:
The first and most crucial step after applying serum to your face at night is to allow adequate time for absorption. This waiting period is essential for several reasons. Primarily, it gives the active ingredients in the serum time to penetrate the skin’s surface and reach the deeper layers where they can work most effectively. The absorption time can vary depending on the serum’s formulation, typically ranging from 30 seconds to a few minutes. During this time, it’s important to resist the urge to touch your face or apply any other products. You may experience a slight tackiness or tightness as the serum dries, which is perfectly normal.
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Some individuals find it beneficial to gently pat or press the serum into their skin to aid absorption, but it’s crucial to avoid rubbing or aggressive motions that could irritate the skin. If you’re pressed for time, you can use a fan to speed up the drying process, but natural air drying is generally preferable. This absorption period is particularly important at night, as it allows the serum to work uninterrupted while you sleep, taking advantage of your skin’s natural regeneration process.
Apply Eye Cream:
Once your serum has been fully absorbed, the next step in your nighttime routine should be the application of eye cream. The delicate skin around your eyes requires special attention, as it’s often the first area to show signs of aging and fatigue. Eye creams are formulated to be gentler than regular facial moisturizers and often contain ingredients specifically targeted to address concerns like dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines. When applying eye cream, use your ring finger as it applies the least amount of pressure,
reducing the risk of damaging the delicate skin. Gently pat or tap the eye cream around your orbital bone, avoiding direct application on the eyelids unless the product specifically states it’s safe for this area. Be careful not to apply too much product, as excess eye cream can migrate into your eyes during the night, causing irritation. If you’re using multiple eye care products, such as a serum and a cream, apply the lighter consistency product first. Allow each product to absorb fully before moving on to the next step in your routine.
Moisturize Thoroughly:
After your eye cream has been applied, the next critical step is to apply a nighttime moisturizer. This step is vital for several reasons. Firstly, moisturizers help to seal in the serum and eye cream, creating a barrier that prevents the active ingredients from evaporating and ensures they remain effective throughout the night. Secondly, moisturizers provide additional hydration to the skin, which is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing dryness or irritation that can sometimes occur with potent serums. Nighttime moisturizers are often richer and more nourishing than their daytime counterparts, as they don’t need to sit well under makeup and can focus solely on hydration and repair. When choosing a nighttime moisturizer,
consider your skin type and the serum you’ve used. For example, if you’ve applied a hydrating serum, you might opt for a lighter moisturizer, whereas if you’ve used an exfoliating or anti-aging serum, a more nourishing moisturizer might be beneficial. Apply the moisturizer gently, using upward motions to avoid dragging the skin downwards. Pay special attention to areas that tend to be drier, such as around the mouth and jawline. Don’t forget to extend the moisturizer down to your neck and décolletage, as these areas are often overlooked but are prone to showing signs of aging.
Consider Facial Oils:
After moisturizing, you might want to consider incorporating a facial oil into your nighttime routine, especially if you have dry or mature skin. Facial oils can provide an extra layer of nourishment and create a protective barrier that locks in moisture and the benefits of your other skincare products. They can also help to balance your skin’s natural oil production and provide additional anti-aging benefits. When using facial oil, less is more – typically, 2-3 drops are sufficient for the entire face. Warm the oil between your palms and gently press it into your skin,
rather than rubbing it in. This pressing motion helps the oil to penetrate more effectively without disturbing the layers of products underneath. If you find pure facial oil too heavy, you can mix a drop or two into your nighttime moisturizer for easier application. Choose an oil that suits your skin type and concerns – for example, rosehip oil is great for anti-aging, while jojoba oil is suitable for most skin types due to its similarity to our skin’s natural sebum.
Spot Treatments:
If you’re dealing with specific skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or localized dryness, now is the time to apply any spot treatments. These targeted treatments should be applied after your moisturizer (and facial oil, if using) to ensure they don’t get diluted by other products. For acne spot treatments containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, apply a small amount directly on the blemish.
For treatments targeting hyperpigmentation or age spots, apply to the affected areas only. If you’re using a hydrating spot treatment for dry patches, you can be more generous with the application. Remember that some spot treatments, particularly those for acne, can be drying, so you might want to apply an extra dab of moisturizer around the treated area to prevent excessive dryness.
Final Touch: Overnight Masks or Treatments:
For an extra boost to your nighttime skincare routine, consider using an overnight mask or intensive treatment once or twice a week. These products are designed to work while you sleep, providing intense hydration, nourishment, or targeted treatment for specific skin concerns. Overnight masks are typically applied as the final step in your routine, replacing your usual moisturizer. They create a protective seal over your skin,
allowing the active ingredients to penetrate deeply throughout the night. When using an overnight mask, apply a generous layer over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area unless the product is specifically formulated for use around the eyes. Some overnight treatments, like retinol creams or chemical exfoliants, should be used with caution and introduced gradually into your routine to avoid irritation. Always follow the product instructions and be mindful of how your skin reacts to these intensive treatments.
Conclusion:
The steps you take after applying serum to your face at night are crucial for maximizing the benefits of your skincare routine. By allowing proper absorption time, following up with appropriate eye care, moisturization, and considering additional treatments like facial oils or overnight masks, you create the optimal conditions for your skin to repair and regenerate while you sleep. Remember that consistency is key in skincare, and it may take several weeks to see noticeable results from your nighttime routine. Be patient with your skin, and don’t hesitate to adjust your routine based on your skin’s changing needs or seasonal variations. With the right approach and attention to these post-serum steps, you’ll be well on your way to waking up with healthier, more radiant skin. Sweet dreams and happy skincare!
