April 30, 2025 • 10 mins
In this episode of "Plants, Flowers, Oils and Whimsy," host Carrie Scharf explores the art of layering skincare products, focusing on how the approach can enhance the natural glow and hydration of mature skin. Carrie discusses the vital functions of various skincare elements, starting with hydrosols or toner sprays for initial hydration, moving onto water-based serums for deep hydration and antioxidant boosting, and finalizing the process with facial oils or balms to seal in the moisture. Notably, the episode emphasizes effective layering of skincare as a customized, in-depth regimen rather than a single, one-size-fits-all approach. Furthermore, Carrie highlights the potential for layering to become a self-care ritual promoting mindfulness and self-love, demonstrating skincare's role in mental wellbeing and slower, more intentional living, in addition to its physical benefits.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:04):
Hello everyone, and welcome to another episode of our podcast, Plants, Flowers,
Oils and Whimsy. I'm your host, Carrie Sharf, and I'm
so excited to have you back with us today. On
this podcast, we explore the art of herbal infused skincare
and slow nourishing self care, perfect for those of us
who want to treat our skin and soul to a
little extra love. Today, we're diving into an essential but
(00:25):
often overlooked technique when it comes to skincare For mature skin,
layering your products. If you're in your forties, fifties, or beyond,
layering can amplify hydration, improve absorption, and bring out your
natural glow, all without complicating your routine. Layering isn't just
about slathering on a bunch of different products. It's about
creating a harmonious system where each product works in synergy
(00:48):
with the others. Throughout this episode, we'll break down why
layering is so important and share some practical tips on
how you can easily incorporate this into your daily routine.
So let's get into it. But as we age, our
skin undergoes several changes that can make it more challenging
to maintain that youthful, glowing look. One of the most
(01:09):
notable changes is the reduction in natural oil production. Our
skin also starts to hold onto less water, making it
more susceptible to dryness. Additionally, the skin's renewal process slows down,
meaning it takes longer for new fresh skin cells to
replace the old ones. All of these factors combined make
effective hydration more crucial than ever. This brings us to
(01:29):
the significance of hydration and the way we apply our
skin care products. When our skin lacks moisture and the
essentials it needs to heal and renew, no single product
alone can solve the problem. That's why the method of
layering your skin care products can be a game changer.
By carefully selecting and applying your products in a specific order,
each step enhances the benefits of the previous one, creating
(01:52):
a more effective cohesive regimen. Layering supports skin health by
building a well rounded approach to skincare. Each product has
a unique role to play, whether it's providing hydration, locking
in moisture, or adding essential nutrients. When applied in the
right sequence, these products work in harmony, much like an orchestra,
where each instrument plays its part to create beautiful music.
(02:14):
The end result, your skin is not only hydrated and nourished,
but also better able to repair and rejuvenate itself. Now
let's delve into the first essential step in this layering process,
the use of hydrosols or toner sprays. The first step
in layering your skin care products is using a hydrosol
or toner spray. This initial step lays the foundation by
(02:34):
providing your skin with the initial hit of hydration it needs.
Think of it as the first sip of water for
your skin, making it more permeable and receptive to the
benefits of the products you'll be applying next. There are
various types of hydrosols you can use, and each brings
its own set of benefits. Rose hydrosol is fantastic for
soothing and hydrating, while camamyle hydrosol is excellent for calming
(02:57):
irritated skin. Kalendola hydrosul is known for its healing properties
and is particularly good if you have sensitive or inflamed skin.
A great tip to maximize the benefits of your hydrosol
or toner spray is to keep it in the fridge.
This not only provides a refreshing, cooling effect, but also
adds an extra anti inflammatory boost to your routine. Just
a few spritzes and your skin will be prepped and
(03:19):
ready for the next steps in your layering process. Now
that your skin is prepped and hydrated from the hydrosol
or toner spray, it's time to move on to the
second layer in our skin care routine, the water based serum.
This step is crucial for adding a deeper level of hydration,
especially from mature skin that often feels tight or dry.
(03:39):
Water based serums are rich in humectants, ingredients that attract
and retain moisture in the skin. Common humectants include hyaluronic acid, glycerine,
and honey extract, all powerful agents that draw water into
the skin and keep it there. When you apply a
serum containing these ingredients, you're essentially giving your skin an
extra drink of water. But it's not just about hydration.
(04:02):
Using a water based serum also helps to improve the
overall texture and vibrancy of your skin, making it look
more youthful and glowing. And if you opt for herbal
infused serums with botanicals like green tea, licorice root, or
rose hip extract, you're not only hydrating your skin, but
also delivering potent antioxidants that fight free radicals and promote healing.
(04:23):
To make the most of your water based serum, apply
it to slightly damp skin. This helps the ingredients to
absorb more effectively. Use gentle upward strokes and let the
serum fully absorb before moving on to the next step.
This ensures that your skin receives the maximum benefits and
is well prepared for the layers to come. So remember,
a water based serum is your go to for deep,
(04:45):
lightweight hydration and a boost of antioxidants. It's a small
step that makes a big difference, setting the stage for
the nourishing layers that follow. Now let's talk about sealing
in all that goodness with a facial oil or balm.
Now it's time to set feel it all in with
the third step in our layering routine, facial oil or balm.
This step is crucial for maintaining moisture and adding a
(05:08):
protective barrier to your skin. Facial oils and balms act
as emollients and ecclusives, which means they not only soften
and moisturize the skin, but also help to lock in
all the hydration and serum goodness you've applied in the
previous steps. For mature skin, it's important to choose oils
that are rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Some
of the best options include rose hip oil, which is
(05:31):
high in vitamin A and C. Pomegranate oil, known for
its anti inflammatory properties, and C buckthorn oil, which is
packed with vitamins and minerals that nourish the skin. Balms,
especially for nighttime layering, provide an extra layer of protection
and nourishment. Ingredients like shea butter and mango butter are
perfect for adding a cushion of moisture. They help your
(05:52):
skin to stay hydrated throughout the night, ensuring you wake
up with a soft, supple complexion. When applying your facial
oil or balm, take a moment to gently massage it
into your skin. This not only helps with absorption, but
also promotes better circulation and relaxation. Remember, the right products
can make all the difference in achieving deep nourishment for
mature skin. With just a few carefully chosen oils or balms,
(06:16):
you can give your skin the care it needs to
stay radiant and healthy. Now, let's talk about why layering
is so effective compared to simply using a single thick cream.
It might seem tempting to just slap on a rich
moisturizer and call it a day, but there's magic in
the method of layering. Think about it like dressing for winter.
You wouldn't just throw on the thickest coat you own
(06:36):
and step outside. Instead, you layer a thermal, a sweater,
perhaps a vest, and finally a coat. Each layer has
a purpose. One retains heat, another wix away moisture, another
provides wind resistance. Together they offer flexibility, comfort, and ultimate protection.
The same philosophy applies to skin care. Layering your products
(06:58):
means you're giving your skin a targeted and comprehensive approach.
Each product can do its job without being overloaded. A
hydrating toner prepares the skin, a serum delivers concentrated ingredients
deeper into the skin, and a facial oil or balm
seals everything in, locking in that hydration and nourishment. This
method prevents products from just sitting on top of your skin,
(07:20):
which can lead to clogged pores and ineffective moisture retention. Ultimately,
layering allows each product to work synergistically, providing your skin
with exactly what it needs at the right time. It's
about creating a balanced and breathable skin care routine that
adapts to your skin's needs and enhances its natural functions,
rather than overwhelming it with a one size fits all solution.
(07:41):
So remember, the method of layering your skin care products
is key to maximizing their benefits. It's not just about
more products, it's about smarter use of what you have.
Up next, we'll discuss how this routine transitions into a
soothing self care ritual, giving you those precious moments of
mindfulness and connection with your skin. Now, let's talk about
how layering your skin care can become a soothing self
(08:04):
care ritual rather than just another step in your routine.
In today's fast paced world, it's easy to rush through
the motions even when it comes to taking care of
our skin. But what if we took this time to
slow down and truly connect with ourselves. Mindfulness and self
care go hand in hand when it comes to layering
your skin care products. Each step offers an opportunity to pause, breathe,
(08:26):
and be present. When you sprit that hydrosolar toner, take
a deep breath and feel the cool mist on your face.
It's a simple act, but one that can be incredibly
grounding and calming. As you move on to your water
based serum, take your time to massage it gently into
your skin, Use upward strokes, and really focus on the
sensation of your fingers moving over your face. This not
(08:46):
only helps with absorption, but also boosts circulation, giving your
skin a natural, healthy glow. Finally, sealing everything in with
a facial oil or balm can be the perfect ending
to your skin care ritual. Apply it slowly with intention,
and take moment to appreciate the care you're giving to yourself.
Feel the nourishing oils as they melt into your skin,
(09:06):
providing a protective barrier that locks in all the goodness.
Layering your skin care isn't just about achieving that radiant,
youthful look, though that's certainly a wonderful benefit. It's also
about taking those few extra minutes to practice mindfulness and
self love. In those moments, you're not just tending to
your skin. You're reconnecting with yourself, honoring your body, and
(09:27):
embracing a slower, more intentional way of living. So next
time you go through your skin care routine, remember this.
It's not just a routine. It's a ritual one that
allows you to pause, breathe, and find a bit of
serenity in your day. And isn't that something we all
could use a little more of. That's it for today's episode.
I hope you found it helpful and are excited to
(09:49):
try out layering your skin care products for that extra
hydration and glow. Remember, layering isn't just about adding more products,
It's about giving your skin exactly what it needs at
each step. You I enjoyed this episode. Please share it
with a friend who's ready to simplify their skincare and
glow from within. Your support means the world to me,
and it helps others. Discover this podcast for more step
(10:10):
by step guidance, recipes and resources to elevate your skincare routine.
Be sure to check out the show notes. There you'll
find a link to sign up for my newsletter, access
my DIY course, and learn more about our membership community,
where we dive even deeper into the art of herbal skincare.
Thank you so much for tuning in. Until next time,
Stay radiant, stay nourished, and remember your skin is worthy
(10:31):
of care. Every single day
Hello everyone, and welcome to another episode of our podcast, Plants, Flowers,
Oils and Whimsy. I'm your host, Carrie Sharf, and I'm
so excited to have you back with us today. On
this podcast, we explore the art of herbal infused skincare
and slow nourishing self care, perfect for those of us
who want to treat our skin and soul to a
little extra love. Today, we're diving into an essential but
(00:25):
often overlooked technique when it comes to skincare For mature skin,
layering your products. If you're in your forties, fifties, or beyond,
layering can amplify hydration, improve absorption, and bring out your
natural glow, all without complicating your routine. Layering isn't just
about slathering on a bunch of different products. It's about
creating a harmonious system where each product works in synergy
(00:48):
with the others. Throughout this episode, we'll break down why
layering is so important and share some practical tips on
how you can easily incorporate this into your daily routine.
So let's get into it. But as we age, our
skin undergoes several changes that can make it more challenging
to maintain that youthful, glowing look. One of the most
(01:09):
notable changes is the reduction in natural oil production. Our
skin also starts to hold onto less water, making it
more susceptible to dryness. Additionally, the skin's renewal process slows down,
meaning it takes longer for new fresh skin cells to
replace the old ones. All of these factors combined make
effective hydration more crucial than ever. This brings us to
(01:29):
the significance of hydration and the way we apply our
skin care products. When our skin lacks moisture and the
essentials it needs to heal and renew, no single product
alone can solve the problem. That's why the method of
layering your skin care products can be a game changer.
By carefully selecting and applying your products in a specific order,
each step enhances the benefits of the previous one, creating
(01:52):
a more effective cohesive regimen. Layering supports skin health by
building a well rounded approach to skincare. Each product has
a unique role to play, whether it's providing hydration, locking
in moisture, or adding essential nutrients. When applied in the
right sequence, these products work in harmony, much like an orchestra,
where each instrument plays its part to create beautiful music.
(02:14):
The end result, your skin is not only hydrated and nourished,
but also better able to repair and rejuvenate itself. Now
let's delve into the first essential step in this layering process,
the use of hydrosols or toner sprays. The first step
in layering your skin care products is using a hydrosol
or toner spray. This initial step lays the foundation by
(02:34):
providing your skin with the initial hit of hydration it needs.
Think of it as the first sip of water for
your skin, making it more permeable and receptive to the
benefits of the products you'll be applying next. There are
various types of hydrosols you can use, and each brings
its own set of benefits. Rose hydrosol is fantastic for
soothing and hydrating, while camamyle hydrosol is excellent for calming
(02:57):
irritated skin. Kalendola hydrosul is known for its healing properties
and is particularly good if you have sensitive or inflamed skin.
A great tip to maximize the benefits of your hydrosol
or toner spray is to keep it in the fridge.
This not only provides a refreshing, cooling effect, but also
adds an extra anti inflammatory boost to your routine. Just
a few spritzes and your skin will be prepped and
(03:19):
ready for the next steps in your layering process. Now
that your skin is prepped and hydrated from the hydrosol
or toner spray, it's time to move on to the
second layer in our skin care routine, the water based serum.
This step is crucial for adding a deeper level of hydration,
especially from mature skin that often feels tight or dry.
(03:39):
Water based serums are rich in humectants, ingredients that attract
and retain moisture in the skin. Common humectants include hyaluronic acid, glycerine,
and honey extract, all powerful agents that draw water into
the skin and keep it there. When you apply a
serum containing these ingredients, you're essentially giving your skin an
extra drink of water. But it's not just about hydration.
(04:02):
Using a water based serum also helps to improve the
overall texture and vibrancy of your skin, making it look
more youthful and glowing. And if you opt for herbal
infused serums with botanicals like green tea, licorice root, or
rose hip extract, you're not only hydrating your skin, but
also delivering potent antioxidants that fight free radicals and promote healing.
(04:23):
To make the most of your water based serum, apply
it to slightly damp skin. This helps the ingredients to
absorb more effectively. Use gentle upward strokes and let the
serum fully absorb before moving on to the next step.
This ensures that your skin receives the maximum benefits and
is well prepared for the layers to come. So remember,
a water based serum is your go to for deep,
(04:45):
lightweight hydration and a boost of antioxidants. It's a small
step that makes a big difference, setting the stage for
the nourishing layers that follow. Now let's talk about sealing
in all that goodness with a facial oil or balm.
Now it's time to set feel it all in with
the third step in our layering routine, facial oil or balm.
This step is crucial for maintaining moisture and adding a
(05:08):
protective barrier to your skin. Facial oils and balms act
as emollients and ecclusives, which means they not only soften
and moisturize the skin, but also help to lock in
all the hydration and serum goodness you've applied in the
previous steps. For mature skin, it's important to choose oils
that are rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Some
of the best options include rose hip oil, which is
(05:31):
high in vitamin A and C. Pomegranate oil, known for
its anti inflammatory properties, and C buckthorn oil, which is
packed with vitamins and minerals that nourish the skin. Balms,
especially for nighttime layering, provide an extra layer of protection
and nourishment. Ingredients like shea butter and mango butter are
perfect for adding a cushion of moisture. They help your
(05:52):
skin to stay hydrated throughout the night, ensuring you wake
up with a soft, supple complexion. When applying your facial
oil or balm, take a moment to gently massage it
into your skin. This not only helps with absorption, but
also promotes better circulation and relaxation. Remember, the right products
can make all the difference in achieving deep nourishment for
mature skin. With just a few carefully chosen oils or balms,
(06:16):
you can give your skin the care it needs to
stay radiant and healthy. Now, let's talk about why layering
is so effective compared to simply using a single thick cream.
It might seem tempting to just slap on a rich
moisturizer and call it a day, but there's magic in
the method of layering. Think about it like dressing for winter.
You wouldn't just throw on the thickest coat you own
(06:36):
and step outside. Instead, you layer a thermal, a sweater,
perhaps a vest, and finally a coat. Each layer has
a purpose. One retains heat, another wix away moisture, another
provides wind resistance. Together they offer flexibility, comfort, and ultimate protection.
The same philosophy applies to skin care. Layering your products
(06:58):
means you're giving your skin a targeted and comprehensive approach.
Each product can do its job without being overloaded. A
hydrating toner prepares the skin, a serum delivers concentrated ingredients
deeper into the skin, and a facial oil or balm
seals everything in, locking in that hydration and nourishment. This
method prevents products from just sitting on top of your skin,
(07:20):
which can lead to clogged pores and ineffective moisture retention. Ultimately,
layering allows each product to work synergistically, providing your skin
with exactly what it needs at the right time. It's
about creating a balanced and breathable skin care routine that
adapts to your skin's needs and enhances its natural functions,
rather than overwhelming it with a one size fits all solution.
(07:41):
So remember, the method of layering your skin care products
is key to maximizing their benefits. It's not just about
more products, it's about smarter use of what you have.
Up next, we'll discuss how this routine transitions into a
soothing self care ritual, giving you those precious moments of
mindfulness and connection with your skin. Now, let's talk about
how layering your skin care can become a soothing self
(08:04):
care ritual rather than just another step in your routine.
In today's fast paced world, it's easy to rush through
the motions even when it comes to taking care of
our skin. But what if we took this time to
slow down and truly connect with ourselves. Mindfulness and self
care go hand in hand when it comes to layering
your skin care products. Each step offers an opportunity to pause, breathe,
(08:26):
and be present. When you sprit that hydrosolar toner, take
a deep breath and feel the cool mist on your face.
It's a simple act, but one that can be incredibly
grounding and calming. As you move on to your water
based serum, take your time to massage it gently into
your skin, Use upward strokes, and really focus on the
sensation of your fingers moving over your face. This not
(08:46):
only helps with absorption, but also boosts circulation, giving your
skin a natural, healthy glow. Finally, sealing everything in with
a facial oil or balm can be the perfect ending
to your skin care ritual. Apply it slowly with intention,
and take moment to appreciate the care you're giving to yourself.
Feel the nourishing oils as they melt into your skin,
(09:06):
providing a protective barrier that locks in all the goodness.
Layering your skin care isn't just about achieving that radiant,
youthful look, though that's certainly a wonderful benefit. It's also
about taking those few extra minutes to practice mindfulness and
self love. In those moments, you're not just tending to
your skin. You're reconnecting with yourself, honoring your body, and
(09:27):
embracing a slower, more intentional way of living. So next
time you go through your skin care routine, remember this.
It's not just a routine. It's a ritual one that
allows you to pause, breathe, and find a bit of
serenity in your day. And isn't that something we all
could use a little more of. That's it for today's episode.
I hope you found it helpful and are excited to
(09:49):
try out layering your skin care products for that extra
hydration and glow. Remember, layering isn't just about adding more products,
It's about giving your skin exactly what it needs at
each step. You I enjoyed this episode. Please share it
with a friend who's ready to simplify their skincare and
glow from within. Your support means the world to me,
and it helps others. Discover this podcast for more step
(10:10):
by step guidance, recipes and resources to elevate your skincare routine.
Be sure to check out the show notes. There you'll
find a link to sign up for my newsletter, access
my DIY course, and learn more about our membership community,
where we dive even deeper into the art of herbal skincare.
Thank you so much for tuning in. Until next time,
Stay radiant, stay nourished, and remember your skin is worthy
(10:31):
of care. Every single day
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