Advances in Skincare

“Stacking” is the new buzzword.

Unfortunately, no one has absolutely perfect skin. However, as makeup artists we attempt to create a the illusion of a flawless complexion. In order to achieve a such a complexion, proper skincare is required to promote cell turnover and removal of dead cells; by so doing, the skin is better equipped for absorbtion of desired antioxidents and hyderation.

Prior to any foundation application, the “canvas” must be properly prepped and primed. With that in mind, while creating the syllabus for my former school, Make Up First, I included the mandatory course, “Clinical Makeup”, Central to that course was the lecture/demonstration of our on-staff, board-certified dermatologist.

What is stacking?

Stacking is a consumer friendly way of easily incorporating proper skincare by use of efficient and advanced skincare products and the classic routine of prep, treat and seal. Stackable skincare lets you layer active ingredients safely to treat multiple concerns.

Typically, after the skin is cleansed, the skincare products are applied (“stacked”), in layers, from thin to thick consistency. Multiple skincare products, layered in this order, will work to maximize the efficiency of each layer. To best enhance absorbtion, pause briefly between each layer before applying the next. Additionally, as opposed to using one product alone, stacking products with compatible active ingredients will create better results.

How to “do it”!

The Best Morning Skincare Routine:

• Gently cleanse the face with a gentle cleanser;

• Apply sunscreen with compatible ingredients;

• Apply a thin, oil-based serum, which may also also include Vitamin C;

• Apply the compliant moisturizer, which will seal in the serum;

• The moisturizer selected may also include additional ingredients to maximize the performance of the moisturier in retaining water.

The Best Evening Skincare Routine:

• Cleanse the face with a gentle, moisturinzing cleanser/exfoliator;

• Apply a thin serum;

• Apply the moisturizer; and (if necessary)

• Apply a cream containint Vitamin A.

Caveat: Certain antioxidents should not be combined and /or used at the same time. With the advent of stackable skincare product lines, there is no guesswork; the science is already done for the user.

Following are some stackable skincare product lines, with different price points: The Ordinary, Stackable and the newest, Dr. Few.

The Ordinary

StackedSkincare

Dr. Few