‘Skincare Sandwiching’ is Beauty Influencers’ Winter Obsession, but Does it Really Work?
Beauty expert explores the winter beauty trend of ‘skincare sandwiching,’ explaining how it works and why it has gained such massive popularity
Winter is officially on the way, and for your skin, that means trouble. Harsh winds, freezing temperatures, and constant indoor heating can leave your face tight, flaky, and inflamed. Red patches, irritation, and dullness are common complaints, even for those who usually boast resilient skin. Enter the latest winter skincare craze: skincare sandwiching, also known as moisture sandwiching. Promising to deliver deeply hydrated, radiant skin, this technique has become a favourite among those seeking to combat winter dryness without overloading their routine.
Here, we have Dr. Kevin Hayavi, Medical Director and Managing Partner at Beverly Hills Physicians, a premier medical group offering comprehensive beauty and wellness services, explaining the trend and investigates the science behind it.
What Is Skincare Sandwiching?
Think of a classic sandwich: two slices of bread hugging a delicious filling. Skincare sandwiching works in exactly the same way. “Skincare sandwiching is a layering technique; it involves applying topical products (products you apply directly onto your skin) in a specific sequence,” says Dr Hayavi. “This method is commonly used to boost hydration, minimise irritation from active ingredients, or to work to target a specific concern such as pigmentation.”
To create a skincare sandwich, you layer hydrating serums and creams, then seal everything with an occlusive product to lock in moisture. This approach supports and strengthens your skin barrier, which often becomes compromised in winter due to over-exfoliation, environmental stressors, or sensitive skin.
How Does It Work?
According to Dr Hayavi, “The skincare sandwich technique is exactly what it says on the tin: it involves layering your skincare products just like a sandwich. Your moisturiser is the slices of bread, with your active ingredient as the filling.”
The first layer of moisturiser hydrates and repairs the skin barrier, preparing it to safely handle active ingredients. The middle layer, often a serum or active like retinol or vitamin C, targets your skin concerns. Finally, a top layer of moisturiser or balm seals everything in, enhancing the effectiveness of the active while preventing water loss.
This method is particularly useful for strong ingredients that can irritate the skin when first used. Retinol, exfoliating acids, and high-strength vitamin C benefit from the buffer of a moisturiser sandwich, allowing your skin to adjust gradually. “I’d advise starting small, just two to three times per week at first, and then increasing frequency as your skin becomes used to the actives,” says Dr Hayavi.
Step-by-Step: How To Create A Skincare Sandwich
Below, Dr Hayavi explains the best method to create a skincare sandwich of your own:
- Cleanse Gently: Begin with a mild cleanser that removes impurities without stripping moisture from your skin. The goal is a fresh, clean canvas! This step should leave your skin slightly damp, as this will help the absorption of hydrating products.
- First Moisturiser Layer: Apply a hydrating cream or serum containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or niacinamide. These molecules attract water to the skin and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Add Your Active: Once the first layer has absorbed, apply your active ingredient, such as retinol, vitamin C, or an exfoliating serum. The bottom layer protects your skin from irritation while letting the active work effectively.
- Seal With A Final Layer: Apply a thicker moisturiser, balm, or facial oil to lock in hydration. This top layer prevents trans-epidermal water loss and enhances the overall effect of the middle layer.
The Best Ingredients For Your Perfect Skincare Sandwich
For the hydrating layers, look for lightweight serums that contain hyaluronic acid or glycerin. Moisturisers should be rich enough to hold moisture in, but not so heavy that they feel greasy.
Facial oils or balms make ideal finishing layers, especially on extra-dry areas. For retinol or other potent actives, opt for small doses and layer them between two moisturisers to minimise irritation.
Why Winter Makes This Trend Extra Popular
“The winter months amplify skin sensitivity,” says Dr. Hayavi. “Low humidity, cold winds, and indoor heating all accelerate water loss, leaving your skin parched.”
Moisture sandwiching addresses these concerns by boosting hydration and supporting barrier repair. This makes it the perfect antidote to winter’s skincare woes!
Who Benefits Most (And Who Should Avoid It)
Dr. Hayavi notes, “Moisture sandwiching is fantastic for dry, sensitive, or reactive skin types, especially during harsh weather. It allows your skin to tolerate strong ingredients without suffering irritation. However, people with oily or acne-prone skin may find the extra layers too heavy and could risk breakouts.”
For anyone using potent actives for the first time, the sandwich method can help your skin adapt. Even if you’re simply combating winter dryness, utilising this technique alongside your usual actives can give an immediate boost of comfort and hydration.
“Skincare sandwiching combines hydration, protection, and targeted active delivery.” Dr. Kevin Hayavi tells YCB. “The biggest advantage is that it allows the skin to absorb beneficial ingredients while reducing potential side effects. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for those struggling with dry, sensitive, or reactive skin, it can transform your winter skincare routine.
“Patients who adopt this technique often experience less flakiness and irritation. It is simple, practical, and adapts to different skin concerns, but it should be tailored to your skin type and the strength of the products you are using.” He concludes.