The Moisture Sandwich: The Best Way to Hydrate Your Skin

“Moisture sandwich” is a skincare technique that has recently gained popularity, introduced by Charlotte Palermino, co-founder and CEO of Dieux Skin, through her social media. The main principle of this technique is to lock in skin moisture by first dampening the skin before applying layers of skincare products, whether on the face or lips. The goal of this method is to keep the skin hydrated throughout the day.

The process begins by moisturizing the skin with a toner or hydrating mist, followed by other skincare products like serum or moisturizer. Then, the final product, such as an occlusive or heavier moisturizer, is applied to seal in the moisture from the previous layers. This technique is especially beneficial for those with dry skin or those exposed to extreme temperatures.

Palermino explains that the main benefit of the “moisture sandwich” is creating a protective layer that helps retain skin moisture for a longer time. This way, the moisture absorbed into the skin won’t evaporate quickly, keeping the skin feeling hydrated and supple.

On the other hand, choosing the right products is crucial for this technique. It’s best to pick products that can retain moisture, such as water-based products, and avoid those containing alcohol or ingredients that can dehydrate the skin. This technique, which can also be applied to the lips, provides maximum hydration, making the skin and lips feel healthier and softer.

What Is A Moisture Sandwich?

The term “moisture sandwich” in skincare has become a popular trend, likely originating from Reddit. It refers to the technique of layering skincare products in a specific order, with the main goal of locking moisture into the skin, ensuring it stays well-hydrated. Charlotte Palermino, co-founder and CEO of Dieux Skin, explains that the basic principle of this technique is to reduce water loss through the outer layer of the skin, known as transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Essentially, the moisture sandwich begins by dampening the skin with a water-based product, like a toner or hydrating mist, followed by a thicker or occlusive moisturizer to trap the moisture that has been absorbed by the skin. This way, the water trapped in the skin lasts longer, providing optimal hydration and keeping the skin moist and healthy.

Palermino demonstrates how this technique can be applied to both the face and lips, though with slight variations for each area. For the lips, she suggests wetting the area with water first, then applying a simple moisturizer, followed by a thicker lip balm. Wetting the lips gives the moisturizer a better chance to absorb, while humectant ingredients (like glycerin) work more effectively in attracting and retaining water. The occlusive lip balm helps prevent water evaporation, allowing the lips to recover and absorb more moisture.

For the face, the moisture sandwich technique can be adjusted based on skin type. For dry skin, Palermino recommends applying a moisturizer after dampening the face, followed by a face oil, and finishing with a thicker product like a balm to lock in moisture. However, for acne-prone skin, she advises being cautious with overly rich products, as they may worsen breakouts. This technique can also be adapted to the climate where one lives, as humidity and temperature affect how the skin absorbs and retains moisture.

Overall, the moisture sandwich is a simple yet effective technique for keeping the skin hydrated, with an approach that can be tailored to individual skin needs.

The Benefits of the Moisture Sandwich Technique for Hydration and Glow

Following a moisture sandwich routine can provide a more optimal skincare experience by ensuring the skin stays hydrated and gets the maximum benefits from skincare products. According to Charlotte Palermino, this technique helps lock in moisture and improves the absorption of skincare products. By wetting the face before applying products, the skin becomes better prepared to absorb the active ingredients from each product used. This is crucial because proper hydration allows skincare products to work more effectively.

In addition to hydration benefits, the moisture sandwich technique also offers cosmetic advantages. Palermino explains that well-hydrated skin naturally appears more radiant, even without using a highlighter. When the skin is well-hydrated, a natural glow appears, providing a healthy, glowing effect. This offers a more natural and beneficial alternative to relying solely on cosmetic products like highlighters for a bright appearance.

With this routine, not only does the skin look fresher and more radiant, but it also stays protected and hydrated throughout the day. Another benefit is that well-hydrated skin is more resistant to damage from environmental exposure, making it overall healthier. The moisture sandwich technique not only enhances the skin’s appearance instantly but also provides long-term care that maintains hydration and skin health.

The Lip Sandwich & Face Sandwich for Hydrated, Healthy Skin

Palermino explains the “lip sandwich” and “face sandwich” routines in a practical and easy-to-follow way, using affordable and effective products. For the lip sandwich, she recommends widely available moisturizers like Neutrogena Hydroboost or CeraVe as a base to hydrate the lips. She then adds a final layer with products such as Chemist Confessions Balm Voyage, or alternatives like Vaseline, Aquaphor, or any thick lip balm at home. One of Palermino’s favorite brands is Shea Lip Balm from Hanahana Beauty, which she finds ideal as a protective layer over the base moisturizer.

For the face sandwich, Palermino uses a few regular products. Currently, she uses a new serum from Dieux Skin, soon to be released, followed by Triple Lipid Repair from Skinceuticals as a moisturizer. She emphasizes that any moisturizer will be more effective when applied to damp skin, so there’s no need to buy expensive products to get the best results. She personally prefers drugstore brands like La Roche-Posay, Avene, First Aid Beauty, and Cetaphil, all of which provide great benefits without a high cost.

At night, Palermino finishes her skincare routine with a protective layer, such as Aquaphor, Vaseline, or Chemist Confessions’ Balm Voyage. However, when using prescription retinoids, she avoids this layer, as occlusive ingredients like wax and balm can worsen irritation caused by retinoids. This step is crucial because strong products like retinoids can make the skin more sensitive and prone to irritation if layered with thick products.

Moisture Sandwich Technique: Key Tips for Safe and Effective Skincare

Charlotte Palermino provides important notes regarding the moisture sandwich technique, emphasizing key considerations for ensuring safe and effective skincare. She advises against combining this technique with the use of active ingredients such as retinol, exfoliating acids, or other products that may cause skin irritation.

Using these active ingredients alongside the moisture sandwich method can worsen skin conditions, especially for those with sensitive skin. Active ingredients like retinol and exfoliating acids work by removing dead skin cells or speeding up cell turnover, while the moisture trapped in the sandwiching process can cause irritation when used together.

Additionally, she highlights concerns about using Vaseline in a moisture sandwich routine. Although Vaseline or petroleum jelly is known for not clogging pores, it can trap sebum (the skin’s natural oil), dead skin cells, and bacteria on the skin’s surface.

This can potentially lead to acne, especially for those with acne-prone skin. While Vaseline is effective at sealing in moisture, its occlusive nature can create an environment where dirt and oil are easily trapped, which can in turn trigger inflammation and breakouts.

Therefore, it’s essential to consider your skin type when applying the moisture sandwich technique. Using the right products and understanding your skin’s needs and sensitivities will yield the best results without causing side effects like irritation or acne.