Sunscreen First or Day Cream First? This is the Correct Order!

Hello, Implovers! let Lora guess, if you are currently reading this article, chances are you might still be a bit confused and definitely relate to this one question "should I use sunscreen first or day cream first?". Don't worry Implovers, you are not alone, there are many netizens who ask similar questions.

Indeed it sounds trivial, but the order of using morning skincare products turns out to have a big impact. If the order is wrong, the moisturizer may not be fully absorbed, the protection from sunscreen becomes less effective, and the face may end up oily or dull throughout the day. Certainly, that's not what we want, right?

Now, before directly answering the question of sunscreen first or day cream first, let's get to know these two products first so that we understand their respective functions better!

Get to Know Sunscreen Better

Sunscreen or often called sunblock is a skincare product that functions to protect the skin from sun exposure, both UVA and UVB. Although sunlight has benefits as a source of vitamin D, excessive exposure, especially after 9 am, can have quite serious effects on the skin. Starting from redness and sunburn, premature aging, the appearance of dark spots, to the long-term risk of skin cancer. This sunscreen is present as the main protector to minimize all these risks, Implovers.

Its working method varies, some absorb UV rays, reflect, or block them before they can damage the skin layer. In terms of texture, sunscreen generally comes in the form of cream or lotion that is easily absorbed, although now there are some brands that have released sunscreen in spray form.

One important thing to remember about the correct way to use sunscreen: sunscreen should always be the last step in the morning skincare routine, after all other products have been absorbed. The goal is for the UV protective layer to form intact on the skin without being "disturbed" by products applied afterwards.

Oh yeah, sunscreen must be applied every morning, even when you stay indoors and needs to be reapplied every 3-4 hours for optimal protection.

Get to Know Day Cream Closer Too

Now, what's the difference with day cream? Although both are used in the morning, sunscreen and day cream have very different functions. Day cream is basically a facial moisturizer formulated specifically for morning and daytime. Its main function is to maintain skin moisture, protect from pollution, and provide nutrition through antioxidants and vitamins in it.

Many day creams also contain SPF and this is where misconceptions often occur. The SPF in day cream cannot replace sunscreen because its content is usually too small to provide full protection from UV rays.

Day cream has a lighter texture than sunscreen and does not make the face feel heavy or sticky. Another difference, day cream is more flexible, if your skin is already hydrated enough, this step can be skipped. While sunscreen? No exceptions, must be used every day.

So, Sunscreen First or Day Cream First?

The answer is clear: day cream first, then sunscreen.

This is the correct morning skincare routine order so that both can work optimally on your skin:

• Cleanse Face with Face Wash
  Before anything else, start by cleansing your face from oil and leftover night skincare using a face wash suitable for your skin type. Choose one that is gentle, does not make the skin feel dry, and has a balanced pH. Rinse thoroughly, then gently pat dry with a clean towel.

• Apply Toner
  After cleansing the face, continue with toner to balance the skin's pH and provide an initial layer of hydration. Toner helps lock in moisture on the skin so that the next products including day cream can be absorbed more quickly and evenly. Pour onto a cotton pad or directly onto the palm of your hand, then gently pat until absorbed.

• Apply Day Cream
  Now, this is the answer to the good sunscreen question that won't work optimally if the order is wrong: day cream first before sunscreen. After the toner is absorbed, apply day cream evenly to the entire face and neck with gentle massage. Its function is to lock in moisture from the toner and provide the necessary nutrients for the skin throughout the day.

• Wait 1–2 Minutes
  Don't proceed directly to sunscreen! Give a break of about 1–2 minutes for the day cream to fully absorb into the skin. If sunscreen is applied on top of moist moisturizer, its UV protective layer may not be even, meaning the protection will not be optimal. This break also prevents the face from looking too oily or sticky.

• Apply Sunscreen
  After the day cream is fully absorbed, it's time for the most important step: sunscreen. Apply evenly to the entire face, neck, and areas that are often exposed to the sun. Use about two finger lengths for one application, and apply at least 15 minutes before going out. Remember, do not layer sunscreen with any other products afterwards let it work as the top protective layer.
  
  One of the sunscreen options that can be tried is Implora Perfect Shield Bright Boost Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++. Its texture is watery and lightweight, quickly absorbed without feeling sticky, plus no white cast, so comfortable to use as the final step in skincare before makeup. Enriched with Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica, and Ectoin to brighten, soothe, and maintain skin moisture throughout the day.

• Continue Makeup (Optional)
  If all the skincare has been absorbed, you can proceed to the makeup step. For oily skin, loose powder can help lock in sunscreen while controlling shine. If you want to use primer, foundation, or cushion, choose products that also contain SPF for extra comprehensive protection.

Now, no more confusion, Implovers, right? The key is simple: start with day cream to moisturize, and finish with sunscreen for protection. These two steps have different roles but are equally important in keeping the skin healthy, bright, and protected every day.

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