Skin Flooding Routine
Hydration-first routines are trending across UK social feeds. The idea is simple: layer a hydrating mist or treatment essence, a light serum, followed by a moisturiser, then a mask.
Your 4-step layering guide
Build your hydration layering routine step by step - from refreshing mist to nourishing moisturiser.
Step 1 - Mist / Treatment Essence
Instantly hydrates while enhancing the absorption of the skincare that follows.
Step 2 - Serum
Apply a serum infused with powerful ingredients to visibly plump the skin and boost hydration.
Step 3 - Moisturiser
Lock in hydration with a moisturiser suited to your skin type, from lightweight to rich textures.
Step 4 - Mask
Complete your routine with a hydrating mask or overnight treatment.
Healthy-looking skin begins with hydration. A skin flooding routine layers moisture step by step, helping dehydrated skin feel softer, smoother and beautifully comfortable.
Personalise your ritual below, with textures and formulas tailored to your skin type, seasonal changes or specific skincare concerns.
Mist / Treatment Essence
Instant hydration to prepare skin for the next steps in your routine.
Serum
Apply a hydrating serum to visibly plump and replenish the skin.
Moisturiser
Lock in hydration with a moisturiser suited to your skin type.
Mask
Complete your skincare ritual with a moisture-boosting mask.
Application methods for skin flooding
- Apply to damp skin to help lock in hydration and support better product absorption. Start with Step 1: Mist or Treatment Essence, then follow with Step 2: Serum and Step 3: Moisturiser to seal in hydration.
- Use gentle exfoliation one to three times per week, depending on your skin’s needs, to help keep skin smooth and allow your hydration layers to absorb comfortably.
- Match your textures to your skin, season and climate. Serum or fluid textures can feel more comfortable in heat and humidity, while richer creams may be better suited to cold weather or very dry skin.
- Complete your routine with Step 4: Mask, using rinse-off masks after cleansing and before serum, or leave-on masks as the final step. You can also round out your routine with lip oil for extra nourishment.
Skin Flooding FAQs
What is a skin flooding routine?
A skin flooding routine is a skincare method that involves layering hydrating products to deeply moisturise and plump the skin. The process typically starts with lightweight, water-based products and builds up to richer creams or oils to lock in moisture.
Who can benefit from a skin flooding routine?
Anyone experiencing dryness, dehydration, or dullness can benefit from a skin flooding routine. It is especially helpful for those with dry or combination skin types, but can be adapted for all skin types by choosing appropriate products.
What steps are included in a typical skin flooding routine?
A typical skin flooding routine includes cleansing, applying a hydrating toner or essence, layering on serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, and finishing with a moisturiser or facial oil to seal in hydration.
How often should I follow a skin flooding routine?
You can incorporate a skin flooding routine into your daily skincare regimen, either morning, evening, or both. Adjust the frequency based on your skin’s needs and how it responds to increased hydration.
Can I use my regular skincare products in a skin flooding routine?
Yes, many regular skincare products can be used in a skin flooding routine as long as they focus on hydration. Look for lightweight toners, serums with humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, and moisturisers that help lock in moisture.
