The skincare sandwich method may be your skin’s saviour this winter

As winter starts to roll in, along with cosy blankets and your favourite cup of chai, so does the inevitable skin dryness. But the viral skincare sandwich method that promises to seal in hydration and leave you looking like a glazed doughnut might just be what you need in your routine. “The concept revolves around layering hydration strategically, typically applying lighter, water-based products first, and then ‘sealing’ them in with richer emollients or occlusives,” says Dr Anupriya Goel, medical director and aesthetic dermatologist at Berkowits Hair and Skin Clinic.

Think of it as a butter-and-toast, layer your hydration right, and everything stays dewy and supple. So here’s how to layer products the right way, for healthy and plump skin all winter long.

Is skincare sandwiching actually science or just a marketing fad?

Everything can be the next big thing if it is marketed right. Does the skincare sandwich method fall under this category, too? Is it just good marketing? According to Dr M Jafferany, psychodermatologist and Advisory Council at SEREKO, there is real science at play. “The science behind it is rooted in preventing Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL) or the water loss from the skin’s surface, which worsens in dry winter air. Skincare sandwiching is an effective technique that ensures you get the most out of your hydrating products. It works by trapping the moisture from thinner formulas and sealing it in with an occlusive layer. This improves absorption and also prevents any irritation.”

However, it is also true that too many cooks can spoil the broth, or, in this case, clog your pores. Dr Goel warns that the biggest mistake people tend to make is over-layering or using products that aren’t meant to be combined. “Mixing multiple heavy products can lead to pilling, breakouts or even barrier congestion. Another common error is using humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin on completely dry skin. In dry climates, they can pull moisture out from deeper skin layers instead of the environment, making the skin feel even drier.”

Her rule of thumb: “Moderation and ingredient compatibility are key; the goal is to enhance hydration, not smother the skin.”

So, how does one sandwich their skincare like a pro?

For the face, Dr Goel recommends beginning with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, followed by a hydrating mist or toner while the skin is still slightly damp. Next, apply a humectant-rich serum containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin or panthenol; these draw water into the skin. Followed by a moisturiser that contains emollients like ceramides or squalane to restore the lipid barrier. This final ‘seal’ is what creates the sandwich effect.

And for the body, a similar principle applies. Post-shower, lightly pat the skin dry (don’t rub) and apply a hydrating body mist or lotion rich in humectants, followed by a creamy moisturiser with ceramides or urea. Applying products on slightly damp skin makes a significant difference to how effectively moisture is retained.

Hydration cheat-sheet

Dr Jafferany suggests mixing smartly, and his go-to combinations are: