Which comes first moisturizer or sunscreen?

Which Comes First Moisturizer or Sunscreen?

There are so many steps and products that go into proper skincare. Ideally, skin must be cleansed, toned, moisturized and periodically exfoliated. That’s not even getting into strategies like micro needling that can boost collagen production or serums with nutrients that nourish the skin. But if we boil all of this down to its essence, the two most crucial steps in skincare are moisturizer and sunscreen.

Moisture and Protection

Which comes first moisturizer or sunscreen?Moisture and sun protection are the most important foundations of skincare. We all know that one person in our life who prides themselves on being low maintenance. For me, it’s my sister. She’s determined to be pragmatic. She doesn’t want to be wasteful. For her, the only regimen she’ll do is moisturizer and sun protection. Even then, I had to do some real convincing with her.

Moisturizer plumps the skin. It’s key in helping you look your best. A moisturizer keeps the skin looking fresh, hydrated and nourished. In and of itself, it can help minimize the appearance of signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. Without a moisturizer, the skin will look dull and dry. Using a moisturizer helps anyone look more youthful, healthier and refreshed.

Then there’s sunscreen. Sunscreen is the ultimate skincare product for prevention. Sunscreen prevents sun damage, which means discoloration, and an increase in fine lines and wrinkles. Sun protection is also where aesthetics meet healthcare. Cancers like basal cell carcinoma and melanoma can be prevented with a good sunscreen regimen, especially when paired with long sleeves, hats, and strategies like walking on the shady side of the street.

But Which Comes First?

So we’ve got our two basics. Even if we’ve got nothing else, we’ve got to do moisture and sun protection. These two products are the foundation of any good skincare program. But what’s the best way to apply these products?

Layering products can be a challenge. In this case, the best policy is to moisturize first, and layer sunscreens over the top. Let me explain. Moisturizer is a product that works by being absorbed into the skin. Moisturizer is where you want to start for the day. After cleansing and/or exfoliating, apply something that will absorb into the skin, plump and refresh it.

Sunscreen, designed to shield the skin from the elements, should go over the top. Sunscreen is an important barrier between your skin and the harmful rays of the sun. Not only that, it will help to lock whatever you’re using as a moisturizer in. Of course, there’s a perfectly good alternative to layering: using a moisturizer with SPF built-in. These products give you the best of both worlds.

If you’ve still got questions about skincare, give us a call today. At Organic Elements Spa, we offer a range of facials and skincare consultations. We can help hook you up with the regimen that’s right for your skin.