How to layer your butters & oils
Layering is the art of applying products in the right order so each one can do its work. Follow these rituals for the gentlest, most effective routine for sensitive skin.
Patch test every new product
Before introducing any product into your ritual, apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist or elbow. Wait 24–48 hours. If no redness, itching, or irritation appears, it's safe to begin. Read our full patch test guide →
The Morning Ritual
Cleanse
Foaming Facial SoapSplash face with lukewarm water and lather a small amount between palms. Massage gently in upward circles for 30 seconds, then rinse. Pat dry — never rub.
Treat — Under Eye
Under Eye GelWhile skin is still slightly damp, tap a rice-grain-sized amount around the orbital bone using your ring finger. The lightest pressure — the skin here is thinnest on the body.
Seal — Face Butter
Face ButterWarm a pea-sized amount between fingertips until it turns to oil. Press — don't smear — into forehead, cheeks, and chin. Allow 2 minutes to absorb before makeup or SPF.
The Evening Ritual
Cleanse
Foaming Shower Gel or Hard SoapWash the day away. If skin feels tight, you've used water that's too hot — lukewarm only. This removes pollutants without stripping your natural barrier.
Treat — Under Eye
Under Eye GelApply the same way as morning. Night-time absorption is deeper — give it a moment before the next layer.
Nourish — Face Butter
Face ButterUse slightly more than your morning application. Press into clean skin and allow it to work overnight. The butters melt at body temperature, so warmth is key.
Deep Nourish — Body Butter
Body ButterApply to any area that feels dry — elbows, knees, hands, feet. For overnight intensive care on problem patches, apply a generous layer before bed.
Rules of layering
Thinnest to thickest
Always apply lighter textures first. Gels absorb into deeper layers; butters sit on top and lock everything in beneath them.
Damp skin absorbs better
Apply within 60 seconds of cleansing. A light layer of moisture on the skin helps active ingredients penetrate more effectively.
Warm before applying
Rub butters between your palms for 3–5 seconds. They transform from solid to oil and spread evenly without dragging the skin.
Press, don't rub
Patting and pressing is gentler than rubbing — especially critical for eczema and psoriasis-prone skin where friction causes flare-ups.
Less is more
Start with a pea-sized amount of each product. You can always add more, but over-application can overwhelm sensitive skin.
Wait between layers
Give each product 30–60 seconds to absorb before applying the next. This prevents pilling and ensures each layer does its job.
Ritual at a glance
Morning
- Cleanse
- Treat (Under Eye)
- Seal (Face Butter)
Evening
- Cleanse
- Treat (Under Eye)
- Nourish (Face Butter)
- Deep Nourish (Body Butter)
Build your ritual
Browse our apothecary collection of butters, oils, and gentle cleansers — all handmade in small batches in County Down.