What Product First?
This is a question I often get asked in the salon, so I wanted to tackle it here, and share my thoughts with you.
Makeup removal - if you apply two layers of mascara, the chances are, even if you double cleanse at night, and use eye make up remover, you're going to need to do it again in the morning.
If you use an oil based eye makeup remover (characterised by an oil/water split in the bottle that you need to shake) there will be some oily residue on your eyes. So you are definitely going to want to remove that before applying any other products or makeup. A little toner on a cotton pad will do the trick.
Daily Routine:
Cleanse - start with cleansing, using your product type of choice - milk, wash off cleanser etc.
Toner - this helps to remove any last remnants of makeup and cleanser giving a clean face ready for the next stage. Be sure to tone your whole face including eyes, and neck.
Eye cream - apply this next, if you wish to apply eye cream twice per day. Many clients prefer to just do this step at night, allowing that time when you are sleeping for it to perform its magic. If you're strapped for time - and who isn't in the morning - then it's fine to miss this step.
Serum - now it's time for your serum. Again, remember to apply to your neck too. Use light sweeping movements on your neck moving from the base of the neck to the chin/jawline. Avoid your eye area when applying to the face. Lightly stroke it on, don't use vigorous movements that will over stimulate your skin.
Moisturiser - now it's your old favourite - the moisturiser. Don't forget that you may need to vary this with the seasons. If you have particularly dry skin it is going to appreciate a richer consistency in the colder months, to combat some of the harsh elements like the wind and central heating.
Primer - if you find eye makeup tends to slide off during the day, I would recommend trying a specific eye makeup primer, as well as a general primer for your face. One of my clients is very impressed with Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer.
Use a facial primer to prepare your skin for makeup and help last longer. Again, remember gently stroke/massage it in, no aggressive rubbing is needed.
You can skip the primer stage at night. Equally, if you have a separate night cream to your daily moisturiser, swap those products in your routine in the evening.
Don't be tempted to just go to bed because you are tired. At the very least double cleanse and moisturise.