The Skincare Sandwich Method: A Gentle Guide for Sensitive Acne-Prone Skin

As the temperatures drop and winter sets in, you might notice your skin feeling drier, more sensitive, and in need of extra hydration and protection.

The holiday season also means travelling! Where will you be travelling this December? Maybe seeing the snow fall and festivals in Japan or going further up north to the ski lodges in Europe. 

Whether you are just starting to introduce actives into your routine, or someone who has been frustrated time and time again with how sensitive your skin is, now is the perfect time to try the Sandwich Method in your skincare routine to help you achieve clear, glowy and moisturised skin without irritation. 

We at Beda are all for eating foods that are good for your skin but this time, we aren't talking about skin food.  The Sandwich Method is a skincare layering technique designed to reduce the risk of irritation while maximising the benefits of active ingredients. 

The process involves layering moisturiser on both sides of your active products. Here’s how it goes:

Start with a thin layer of your favourite, gentle moisturiser on clean, dry skin. This creates a buffer and adds a layer of hydration, reducing the potential irritation that some active ingredients can cause, especially if you have sensitive skin.

After the first layer of moisturiser has absorbed slightly, apply a thin layer of your chosen active, like our cult favourite Multi-Active Treatment Essence. 

This middle "layer" is your active treatment that addresses specific skin concerns, such as acne, uneven tone, or fine lines. 

For a more detailed understanding of actives such as AHAs, BHAs and PHAs read our previous blog here: 

Finally, follow up with a second layer of moisturiser. This "top" layer helps to lock in hydration, reducing any dryness or irritation that can come with actives, especially in colder months.

This Sandwich Method is particularly beneficial if you’re just introducing actives into your routine. Sensitive or acne-prone skin types often react to skincare acids or retinoids with irritation or dryness, especially in winter. 

By "sandwiching" you actives with a layer of moisturiser, it provides a “moisture cushion” around your active ingredient, helping you reap its benefits without overwhelming and irritating your skin.

Want to know if your skin is irritated or purging? Check out our previous blog here for an in detail guide: 

By “sandwiching” the active between layers of moisturiser, this technique minimises the chance of irritation. The initial layer of moisturiser creates a buffer, while the final layer seals everything in, preventing moisture loss and potential dryness.

The method is especially effective for people who are new to actives or for those with sensitive skin, as it allows the active ingredient to penetrate without causing excessive dryness or flakiness.

Winter weather is notorious for stripping moisture from the skin. The Sandwich Method helps prevent trans-epidermal water loss, which is especially important during colder months. This makes it a go-to technique for winter skincare.

Consistency is key to seeing results, especially with actives. The Sandwich Method allows you to use actives more regularly without compromising your skin's health. For acne-prone skin, this is a gentle way to introduce actives while maintaining a healthy moisture balance and reducing the likelihood of flare-ups.

Winter brings its own set of skincare challenges, from freezing winds to indoor heating, both of which can leave skin parched. The added hydration from the two layers of moisturizer in the Sandwich Method helps to keep skin looking fresh and healthy, even after late nights and holiday festivities. Plus, if you’re planning to try any Christmas or holiday-themed skincare products, like gentle seasonal exfoliants or hydrating serums, this method will help your skin handle those festive treatments like a pro.

When selecting products for this method, opt for:

Gentle, Fragrance-Free Moisturisers

Look for options rich in ceramides or hyaluronic acid to help with hydration and skin barrier support.

Mild Actives 

If you’re new to actives, consider starting with lower concentrations, such as niacinamide (2-5%), a gentle AHA like lactic acid, or a mild retinol derivative. These are generally tolerated well by sensitive, acne-prone skin types.

Pro Tip: If your skin still feels dry, you can add a nourishing oil after the second layer of moisturiser to seal everything in for a soft, dewy finish, especially at night.

Start by using it 2-3 times a week, particularly if you’re using stronger actives. As your skin adjusts, you can increase the frequency. During winter, when skin is naturally drier and more sensitive, the Sandwich Method can even become part of your nightly routine, ensuring that your skin stays balanced and hydrated throughout the season.

The Sandwich Method is a gentle, effective technique for incorporating skincare actives into your routine, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. By layering your active products with extra hydration, you’ll keep irritation at bay and ensure your skin stays plump and glowing all season long. Whether you’re enjoying winter activities or cozy holiday gatherings, the Sandwich Method has your skin covered (literally). 

With love, 

Alia