In one of my Newsletters (via Survey) I have asked people what they’d like to know more about when it comes to Skin Care.

4 topics stood out

1. How to layer products
2. I’d like to hear more about Natural Skin Care alternatives
3. Ingredient descriptions and how to read labels
4. I would like Product suggestions for different skin types

I thought I’d use my expertise and practical experience of more than 15 years in the skin care industry and make a start with skin care layering **The Morning Routine**, as the order in which to use your skin care products can be a little confusing but can also make all the difference to the way they absorb and work.

It really is a great topic and is worth discussing even more in detail - I am happy to answer any questions you may have on the basis of my following guide.

SKIN CARE LAYERING - THE MORNING ROUTINE

1. CLEANSER (oil-based ie Cleansing Oil or water-based ie Cream Cleanser) please NO makeup remover wipes, they mainly just move make up and dirt around and on top of it, they are not environmentally friendly either!
   A foaming Face Wash can be far too harsh and drying on your skin. Micellar Waters are for the "quick" cleanse.
   A good Oil Cleanser or Cream is far more gentle and nourishing on your skin and suit ALL skin types. Your skin will definitely thank you.
   Use face cloths or flannels with your Cleansing Oil or Cream.
    
2. TONER (alcohol free)
   A Toner is built to hydrate, it wakes your skin up and prepares for the next steps in your skin care routine.
   What you are looking for is a product that contains humectants like Hyaluronic Acid or D-Panthenol and Glycerine. It calms the skin, gives a burst of hydration and acts as a conductor that aids delivery of serums to the skin.
   
   A good Toner can also contain beneficial ingredients such as calming Aloe Vera or anti-oxident rich Green Tea or skin brightening Papaya extract. See my range of Toners and Mists https://www.gerlindenaturals.com/toners-and-mists.html
    
3. EXFOLIATE
   Sometimes, dead skin cells don’t shed completely. This can result in dry, flaky patches, clogged pores and dull skin.
   With a product like my Organic Face Scrub you will solve these problems and gently buff away dead skin cells with ultra-fine Bamboo Powder (no Microbeads), Kaolin Clay and enzyme based peeling Papaya Extract, leaving your skin looking brighter and softer.
   
   
4. SERUM, ie a light hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Hyaluronic Acid is a potent hydrator and natural moisturiser and attracts and holds moisture, giving your skin an instant, intense dose of hydration.
   Dehydrated skin is left dewy, supple and visibly plumped, while skin texture is improved, and the appearance of fine lines is reduced.
    
5. EYE CREAM or EYE GEL
    
6. SPOT TREATMENT
    
7. MOISTURISER depending on skin type, this could be with Hyaluronic Acid (also good when your skin is very oily) or simply a good Vitamin C moisturiser.
    
8. FACE OIL 
   Face oils are occlusive, meaning they seal in all the ingredients and moisture you just applied to your face to keep them from evaporating as quickly. 
   If you are new to Face Oils, start using them by mixing a few drops with your moisturiser.
    
9. SUNSCREEN SPF30 and above, broad spectrum - A moisturiser with added SPF will not benefit the skin as much as two separate products will. Don't forget to apply on neck and ears.
    
10. Makeup

Happy to answer any questions you might have!