Skincare “Sandwiching” Will Keep Your Skin Hydrated For Fall

While it’s wise to take most TikTok beauty hacks with a large pinch of salt, every once in a while, it throws up something that’s actually worth taking note of. Enter: sandwiching your skincare.

What is the skincare sandwich method?

With the sandwiching method, products of a lighter texture—such as toners, mists, or essences—are applied first, then a serum, and finally a thicker cream that seals all your active ingredients into the skin. Thus, the serum, which is the step most likely to contain the highest amount of active ingredients, is “sandwiched” between a thin moisture layer on the bottom and a more occlusive, heavier product, like a night cream, on top.

The technique aims to trap the middle layer in the skin—think of it as a “moisture sandwich”—and make active ingredients such as