Evening Protocol

The evening routine focuses on removing environmental particulate matter and facilitating cellular turnover and repair.

Step 1: The Double Cleanse

Essential for removing water-resistant SPF and makeup.

1. Lipid Phase: A cleansing oil or balm. Massaged onto dry skin to dissolve lipophilic substances (sebum, sunscreen filters, makeup).
2. Aqueous Phase: A water-based, low-pH cleanser. Massaged onto wet skin to remove the emulsified oil and any remaining water-soluble debris.

Step 2: Treatment Actives

This slot is reserved for high-impact actives. Choose one pathway per evening to avoid barrier degradation:

• Cellular Turnover: Retinoids (Tretinoin, Retinol).
• Chemical Exfoliation: AHAs or BHAs.
• Pigment Inhibition: Azelaic Acid, Tranexamic Acid.

Step 3: Barrier Support (Moisturizer)

A formulation rich in the physiological lipids of the stratum corneum: Ceramides, Cholesterol, and Free Fatty Acids (ideally in a 3:1:1 ratio). This occludes the actives and prevents TEWL overnight.