HOUSTON – If you’ve been scrolling through social media lately, you might have come across the term “skin flooding”—a popular skincare trend inspired by Korean beauty routines.
KEEP IT SIMPLE: Here’s what dermatologists are saying about your skin care routine
Dermatologist Natalie Hone from The Skin People in Bellaire dishes the scoop.
What Is Skin Flooding?
“Skin flooding” is all about layering your skincare products to hydrate your skin deeply. According to Dr. Hone, this technique isn’t new but has recently become trendy.
“The premise is actually great,” she says. “You want to use more than one layer to adequately hydrate your skin.”
The idea is to start with a slightly moist base so your skin can absorb moisturizers and treatments better.
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Think of your skin like a sponge: dry, it’s hard and tight; moist, it soaks up hydration much easier.
How To Layer Your Products
Dr. Hone breaks it down simply:
- Start with water: Use plain water or a light spritz to dampen your skin; pat dry.
- Apply a serum: Choose a thin, glycerin-based serum that attracts water.
- Seal it in: Finish with a thicker moisturizer to lock in all that hydration.
“The easiest way to know what to do is go from thinnest product to thickest product,” she explains.
Who Should Try Skin Flooding?
This method works wonders for people with dry or sensitive skin (look for fragrance-free and sensitive-friendly products). It helps soothe and hydrate without overwhelming the skin.
“If you tend to have dry skin and you’re using products for sensitive skin, I think it’s right,” Dr. Hone says.
This is not for everyone
Dr. Hone warns that it’s not for everyone.
If you’re prone to acne or clogged pores, layering too many products can make things worse.
Know what’s inside the bottle
Never layer multiple products containing retinol, a popular ingredient for improving skin texture and reducing wrinkles, but it can be irritating if not used carefully.
“Retinol is an active,” Dr. Hone explained, “You have to be really careful.”
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If you do want to use a retinol, Dr. Hone advises starting by using it only two nights a week to get your skin used to it, then gradually increasing.
Final Tips
- Always layer from thinnest to thickest product.
- Use fragrance-free products if you have sensitive skin.
- Don’t overload your skin if you’re acne-prone.
- Introduce active ingredients like retinol slowly.
If you’re curious about skin flooding, it might be worth trying—especially if dry skin is your concern. But as always, when in doubt, check with a dermatologist to find what’s best for your unique skin.