Master Esthetician Baylee Relf answers 5 essential skincare questions — the ingredient she never skips, product order, pore minimization, and her can't-live-without product. Question: What is one ingredient I should always make time for in my skincare routine? (i.e. HA, Vitamin C, SPF, etc.) Answer: If there’s one ingredient I always encourage people to prioritize, it’s Vitamin C. I love it because it’s an antioxidant that helps bring brightness and radiance back into the skin while helping skin look smoother and healthier over time. It’s one of those ingredients that really rewards consistency and gives skin that fresh, healthy glow people are always seeking. Question: How often should we be replacing our skincare products? [i.e. what is the typical shelf life] Answer: One of the easiest ways to get the most out of your skincare routine is making sure your products are still fresh. We usually recommend replacing most skincare products within 6–12 months after opening (the period-after-opening, or PAO, window), especially products with active ingredients like Vitamin C. If you notice the texture changing, separation happening, or the scent smelling different, it’s usually a sign the formula isn’t performing the way it should anymore. Question: What order should I be using my products in? [cleanser, serum, moisturizer, toner, oil, mask, etc.] Answer: I usually recommend applying products from the lightest formulas to the richest: cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, then SPF during the day. Keeping it simple and consistent is always my approach. Question: How can I reduce the appearance of pores? Answer: Pore size is mostly genetic, but keeping the skin balanced and healthy can help minimize their appearance. Gentle exfoliation, proper hydration, and consistent cleansing can all help skin look smoother and more refined over time. Question: What’s one product you can’t live without? Answer: SPF, always. It’s one of the simplest but most important things you can do to help maintain healthy, glowing skin long term.
