Skin Care Layering 101 with Melanie Simon | VIOLET GREY

ZIIP Beauty founder and electrical esthetician Melanie Simon is perpetually radiant. She’s even made her appointment-only magic available for at-home use with her palm-size ZIIP Nano Current Skincare Device, a sleek, user-friendly contraption that links up to an iPhone app targeting dry skin, signs of aging, and acne. In her weekly video series, the skin care guru gives it to you straight up (a phrase she constantly employs), revealing her anti-aging techniques and go-to products.
Fact: How you apply skin care can make or break your results. But with an arsenal filled with serums, cleansers, toners, creams, and finishing fluid, deducing the right order of application can seem as enigmatic as the old chicken and the egg query. So, which product comes first? “This is a question I get all the time,” says Simon when we inquire about the best process, “let’s just break it down once and for all, and get it straight.”
PRODUCTS:
1. Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water ► www.violetgrey...
2. Bioderma Sensibio H2O ► www.violetgrey...
3. Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 1970
4. Biologique Recherche Serum A-Glyca
5. Biologique Recherche Serum Elastine Pure
6. Melanie Simon Serum C ► www.violetgrey...
7. Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum ► www.violetgrey...
8. Bioderma Hydrabio Cream ► www.violetgrey...
9. Susanne Kaufmann Rejuvenating Eye Cream ► www.violetgrey...
10. Biologique Recherche Fluide VIP O2
11. Tatcha Dewy Skin Face Mist ► www.violetgrey...

[@jnelybely]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️More, more, more Melanie Simon!!! I have the ZIIP and love it! Please address retinoids, scrubs, perimenopausal enlarged pores, pigmentation, and whether a Clarisonic is good or bad.

[@Louisianagirl_1126]

Thank you, Thank you so much for this presentation. This has answered my biggest dilemma about skincare.

[@melissahelsel4728]

Loved this. Thank you!

[@sweetdiesel]

I love this woman. This is the video I needed. I watched so many different v-loggers and brands and this was the best one ever. She just tells it like it is and her face shows her truth! Would love to know where and what kind of gauze to buy? Just regular gauze that comes in a first aid kit?

[@paulinevanderwoning5706]

Wow,never seen skin look this perfect, give anything to see this when I look in a mirror,

[@lilacism5440]

Would love a video on different actives (retinols, bha/aha, vit c, niacinamide) and when to use them, how to/how not to combine them etc. Also if you're a fan of fermented essences (sk-ii, missha, sum37, tatcha etc)? And how to incorporate them!

[@mdpeach]

Lilac ism Really good questions...I am especially interested in Melanie's thoughts on retinol.

[@MSUSPARTANS1973]

Check out CAROLINE HIRONS videos and blog. She's the skin care queen. She's from England and has been into skincare for 25 years. As far as SK-II ... that would go on right after cleansing, then use a HYDRATING TONER, like the BR 170 she discussed. It smells VILE, so be prepared! However, go on their website because there are 4 different kinds. The original- which she's using, a gentler version, one for mature skin, and one for hyperpigmentation ( brown spots from the sun). GOTHAMISTA is also an amazing skincare guru on KZbin. She knows everything about Korean Beauty, which is awesome. She also has a video on why fermented skincare is the way to go. She explains hard concepts in a way we can all understand! TOPHCAM is a guy and another expert! His blog and videos rock! Go on his blog and read up on his article regarding vitamin c! Hope this helps! NOTE: SK-II is expensive! Caroline found something even better for 40 bucks. I'll try and find the video!

[@lilacism5440]

jenny koppy - Thank you!! 💓👍👍

[@MSUSPARTANS1973]

Lilac ism you're welcome! Between those three you will learn tons!

[@ItsTheGLife]

Yes pls!! Especially I've been using aha/bha

[@oneworld24]

Wow her skin is immaculate

[@aiai-j7i]

Hahaha, make up and filmed with a filter....one does not need hundreds of dollars in products.

[@xtian384]

A G especially if with 200$ they give you a 5$ vitamin c serum

[@MrYuri1968]

I love this routine, its simple and efficient, i dont use the same product line, but its a similar one, proper to my skin, i think its best, this lady looks amazing ,even if i don't look this way, or dont use the same products; this is more like a ritual to make u feel great after looking fresh and energized, even if u just wash your face and put a hydrant, tks a lot.

[@avalee6358]

What is the alternative product to cotton pads she mentions?

[@celiaso8589]

What type of gauze is best to use?

[@maryfarsi2840]

Please make a video about biologique recherche skin line. There so many serums and steps. Thank you so much.

[@aande5348]

biologique recherche ingredients list is toxic and so harmful. AND expensive! Why would you want the whole video dedicated to it? :-)

[@Lori1976]

@@aande5348 yep! The only product I use from BR is the P50 anymore.

[@vivixwaldo4227]

Can I use this toner in the morning before my Ziip primer? Or in the evenig before Tretinoin creme 0,025 ?

[@11kindpunk11]

I liked it but i needed to see the actual application on the face. Also where does sunblock go? After ALL these?!

[@AnaluGPrd]

Loved itt!!, It was so easy explained, Thinnest to thickest! Keep them coming!

[@silviaciobanu5398]

What about the face massage oil? Should you do your massage before or afte you've applied your moisturizer?

[@masterprocastinator8884]

Which is more effective in skincare? Layring or mixing? I use hyaluronic acid serum, the ordinary niacinamide and a lightweight moisturizer. Should I layer them in that order or mix them all together?

[@juliehausner2065]

What brand of face gauze? Thanks!

[@soogeekdup]

This was soooooo informative and straight to the point. Thank you!

[@aprilhancy7277]

Thank you for this great tutorial. I am still learning the basics so this was very helpful. I thought Melanie was very professional.

[@aande5348]

she was more convincing and good advertiser, than professional. The serum she promotes has bad ingredient list, cost 200 dollars and more over, has a transparent bottle wich is forbidden for such serums because of oxydation. It can cause very bad issues with skin..

[@Clau0818]

What if you use prescription Tretinoin?

[@2tall4u18]

Where can I get the gauze that you use for the toner?

[@cindyguzman8830]

3 questions. I love P50 1970 but can you use that version while pregnant (phenol) or should I get P50 (no phenol). Secondly, are there any other Vitamin C serums you recommend that are a little less expensive? Lastly, Obagi has a vitamin C that also has hyaluronic in it. Any thoughts?

[@msl5131]

It would help to know Melanie's skin-type & whether these products translate to all skin-types or if you would make different suggestions based on need.

[@chloejchan]

Is fluide vipo2 a spray? Can you spray directly onto the skin?

[@mishadoodle99]

Which mineral makeup do you use or suggest? Love Your videos! Just got my Ziip 🥰

[@paigemillhaem4648]

I am unable to buy Biologique Recherche lotion P50 1970 in Canada. I live in Canada. Can you suggest a second choice. I can get most other Biologique Recherche products.

[@eunicej6666]

Skin dreams! She also seems to have mastered the perfect hair twist - can there be a tutorial??

[@nonlivingworld]

will this routine help only in preventing wrinkles etc. or also acne, scarring, pigmentation, dark circles? Thanks

[@chloenguyen8766]

The best skin care instructions!!! Can you do a video on retinol

[@SoraOfTheRisen]

Oh wow, vit c BEFORE hyaluronic acid. I was doing it flipped! I wonder if there will be much of a difference when I reverse it. I also do vit c in the morning because I heard that it's a bit photoprotective.

[@carolannf]

Ha, me too! If Yu watch Caroline Hirons she says put the AHA on first, so acidic products followed by toner and then rest of products. Don't find any consistency from the 'experts' .

[@Gresaaa]

where did you see her putting a toner on after p50? the 'toner' that caroline uses isn't really a toner, it's a hydrating mist (which isnt essential, she has mentioned that on many occasions) so there is a consistency, the only part i was confused during this video was the eye cream after the moisturiser,

[@witchescauldron]

I learnt a few things in this video which is great!! Melanie is a great teacher ♡

[@rosamg6044]

Please share what she's using as make up!!! She looks great ( specially the glow and cheeks) 🌷

[@RockeyToes]

I was always told C serums are photo-sensitive and should be in a dark or tinted bottle to protect the product. How is the one you're using different?

[@aande5348]

This is true! It should be dark because of risk of oxudation. And more over, the ingredient list is just terrible! The problem with such videos that not only they 'educate you' but also promote lot's of different stuff. :-(

[@Meredith.A]

I really appreciate this video!! very helpful and unique... wondering if any derms can say if diet : certain fruits n veggies make a difference in skin appearance collagen glowyness etc?

[@claudiaoliveira9090]

Can’t use most of this because of my rosacea, I have a very minimalist skin care but I would like to try new products, witch ones can I use?

[@perkup1]

Are all gauzes created equal or do you have a preferred brand?

[@mandeemichelle4668]

Michele Perkins I'm trying to find the answer as well!!

[@rosamg6044]

Also want to know if this Bioderma cream is good for combination skin that sometimes dehydrate? Please

[@chiccadtlachicca_cdt5438]

Very useful video. A question: why wet laiter for the tonic? Usually I use or directly from my hands or with a dry diskette. Thank's a lot

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: Thanks a lot. I'm not sure of the question but I think you are asking why I was wetting the gauze...I do that to cut the PH or in other words the acidity, since I never know how people will react to P50 the first time.

[@neelamshahbazi1087]

Caroline hirions does amazing routines!

[@yagalterry]

This just reminds me of the ten step Korean skincare~

[@adelinewurzer4533]

I love this video and I will show it to everyone who calls me extra for my skincare routine lmao

[@alicearellano3502]

i always heard that it is best to first put eye cream on first before serums/moisturizer ....is this true?

[@Kat74770]

During skin care routine, when is it best to put on acne medicine?

[@sofiadaryono]

How long do we have to leave retinol on before the next step?

[@Kazzy01]

Hi, I use jojoba and rosehip oil morning and night. Would this be applied as the last step before SPF in the day, and the very last step at night? Also I have the Ziip and would like to know if the gel subscription or a cheaper alternative will be available in the UK, as I go through the gel fast. Thank you

[@micacam2684]

Love you Melanie! Thank you!!

[@daisyiphone83]

Someone please help. Why put the Hyaluronic acid after serums. Wouldn’t it go first?

[@rarama5273]

You used the moisturizer first before the eye cream? Im confused now. They said always use eye cream first before the moisturizer. Pls help.

[@taurus_beauty11-11]

Wow your skin is amazing ☺️

[@Benjamin_estrella]

Thanks for this video. You have an incredible skin! I would love to know your thoughts about derma roller. thanks so much.

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: Thank you!!! I love a good Dermaroller especially with the C. You must use the correct products with Dermarollers or it's a disaster!

[@julienminniti6575]

Great video!!!

[@ninad205]

Thank you so much! This series is up my ally, I really appreciate the time and know how that you are spreading. My face def needs some more lovin lol

[@malika5076]

Great video. Would've been nice to have all the products listed in the description box though.

[@TheVioletFiles]

Products have been added to the description box! x

[@chloenguyen8766]

Also when to use Ziip tool? Before or after these skin care layering?

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: BEFORE

[@ohcarolshow]

Hi there...Does your vit c need to be refrigerated?? And is a clear glass bottle efficient for it??

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: I use a clear bottle because 1. Light sensitivity isn't really its Achilles' tendon, water (aka other products) are. 2. They are small batch and I want the customer to be able to see the serum. If it clouds over at any point, it's trash and will be replaced. I have never had this happen before but I want my clients to be able to see that the product is stable and clear. Now that being said, I don't set the bottle in the light. It should go in your medicine cabinet or wherever you store your other products.

[@msl5131]

What type of Vit C is this and what concentrate?

[@BlushingForeigner]

I LOVE her! I want a Masters' in Skin Care Layering. I like the way she's just telling it like it is -- no B.S. :)

[@MaiPham-cu5vg]

Wow! She echoes a lot of skincare philosophies in KBeauty!! Dabbing/patting, sheer to thick, multiple steps

[@dyanflores443]

Next time I would love to see her do her routine instead of talk about it.

[@katerina7436]

What about facial oils? When should those be incorporated (if at all)?

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: Before moisturizer, but only if it's fantastic. I'm dating but haven’t gotten serious with any straight oils.

[@katerina7436]

Okay, thanks so much!

[@jamitag6689]

what about vintner’s daughter

[@viviansoto76]

Can someone please tell me the nail polish. Please

[@RanaF0]

What would you recommend for acne prone skin?

[@TheVioletFiles]

Check out Episode 2 of this series, "Secrets To A Clearer Complexion." Melanie shares some of her best acne-clearing secrets. You can find the video on our KZbin channel! x

[@ncwest1984]

Essences?

[@haleyhallyburton9623]

Where do you buy Biologique Recherche products?

[@daisyiphone83]

Haley Hallyburton shoprescuespa.com

[@alexandramagyari4891]

Melanie didn't really explain - why would one avoid the forehead area with their moisturizer? Shouldn't the entire face be moisturized? I've never heard of this application method.

[@rozettaify]

Only because of the T zone, it's getting oily with moisturizer

[@maryfarsi2840]

Where comes the Vitamin C if it does not work with other serums. Please explain C in the morning or night? Thank you.

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: You wait until the toner soaks in (if you use one) and the skin is dry to the touch, then apply Vitamin C. Don't put your next product on until the C has had time to set (5-10 min). Just give it a moment on it’s own to shine. It works best like that. Trust me :)

[@maryfarsi2840]

Thank you so much.

[@nicolemelton4964]

OMG, she is awesome !!!!!!

[@donnabledsoe5257]

I wish you would name what you use in stead of saying use this

[@amiebrown7904]

Just want to confirm, can you add any of the BR serums THEN the vitamin C?

[@TheVioletFiles]

Yes! As long as you let each serum set first. So wait at least one minute after each BR serum, then apply the Vitamin C, then wait 10 minutes before applying anything else.

[@amiebrown7904]

Violet Grey Thank you so much for your reply! I hope one day you can carry the BR line! Your skincare/make up/etc education is the best!!

[@neelamshahbazi1087]

What about retinol?

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: I used to HATE it but now as I'm pushing 40 with acne scars, I will use it once a week at night. Pushing 50 could do it twice a week and pushing 60/70 could do 3 times. 3 is the max in my book. Also when applying let it soak in on clean skin, wash your hands and then apply a moisturizer on top.

[@salliewhite]

ok...my vit c is from the Ordinary and in the form of a lotion so Im assuming it can not go on directly after toner but between serums and moisturizer/oil. Yes? With drying time factored in. Sorry for all the questions.

[@lauragwillim1055]

I'm a huge fan of retinol! Use it daily and have for years. (I'm 53) I've been using Zo Medical Skincare (by Dr Zen Obagi) for the last 7 months and love it. My skin has never looked better. My routine is cleanse, toner pads, vitamin C, skin brightner w retinol, eye cream, daily defense, then sunscreen and mineral foundation. There is a wonderful skin polishing scrub that is amazing. Also two nighttime products I use are the Radical Night repair (very high in retinol)and the growth factor serum plus. I will alternate those products. I cleanse am and pm and use the toner pads am and pm. I do not use any moisturizer and don't need it anymore as my skin is so much more hydrated with these products. The down side of retinol is sun sensitivity. You will burn much more easily so sunscreen up and wear a wide brim hat. Retinol also thins your skin so Do Not wax anything on your face when using retinol. I made that mistake only one time years ago when I waxed my brows. Ouch!!

[@thymesawastin]

Violet Grey When you have used a retinal or retin a the night before do you wash your face in the morning?

[@mistressofspices8490]

she's "pushing 40"?.... oh c'mon... of course her skin is well cared for, but not enough to say she's "pushing 40" (smh).

[@jackiewingate4114]

how do i get my hands on Melanie's serum C? it sounds like she's the got the formula perfect!

[@TheVioletFiles]

You can get it directly from Melanie via Melanie Simon Skincare!

[@perkup1]

Violet Grey I can't seem to find the website or the vitamin C. Can you please post a link to where we can purchase the Vitamin C?

[@TheVioletFiles]

Link has been added in the description above! x

[@alisabarac]

I learned so much!

[@jiffjiffernson7292]

how to give your money away - smart girl!

[@acerone1]

Can anyone recommend​ a good Gauze?

[@joannes8485]

I use Dynarex Non-Sterile Non Woven Sponge, 4x4 Inch. It's gauze, not a sponge. They are very nice for removing make up with micellar water. I buy them on amazon.

[@RefuseToRegret]

What if you're using an acne treatment?

[@NA-zf9ms]

Can you pls ask Melanie (she's so great and that skin!) to address a couple of questions most people will have fry this video in a subsequent video? So it's generally advised to "double cleanse" - first use an oil-based balm to remove makeup/spf ( bioderma isn't preferred as it can be drying and doesn't cleanse thoroughly) and then actually wash with a mild non-foaming cleanser to get the remnants off. Also, what about retinol for PM?

[@fsmishere5992]

Why is it bad if you use normal moisturizer around your eye

[@mollysmile5468]

How about face oil?

[@katy8750]

What would be the prefered sunblock?

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: Jane Iredale Pressed Powder or for a day at the beach the Biologique Protection UV is great.

[@carlotamorais5750]

Why doesn't she wash her face with tepid water after she cleanses? I am very confused! Does she use water in the morning at least?

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: I don't believe in over cleansing. I do my full routine at night and then sleep on a clean pillowcase and then start in the morning with P50.

[@harxmoond]

The cleansers she mentioned are rinse free so water isn't necessary for it to work. On removing the facial cleanser she uses a gauze to determine if she did a great job or not, and repeats if necessary. For sensitive prone skin, like myself, this simply wouldn't work. So I always apply a bit of water at the end before applying toner. And use Lotion P50 sparingly some find that its too strong and stings, but that also depends on which version you use: the European or American version.

[@clarisaantiagingdermatology]

Water is tap water is loader with chemicals, you never wash your face with that type of water. besides the water soluble cleansers that she mentioned are rinse free ..

[@jnelybely]

Carlota Morais of

[@ellawilliams7901]

I wonder if this is recommended for someone in their early 20s

[@miav1991]

Ella Williams Don't fuck up your young skin with all of this. Remove your make up every night and find a good moisturizer and face oil. The rest will come with age.

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: They could cut the moisturizer out or stop at the level they feel hydrated and then apply their makeup/sun protection.

[@Gresaaa]

i'm almost 25 and only use p50 at night, and not every night either, maybe twice/three times a week. my routine is different from morning and night in that i use different products. they work fine but i would recommend just having a nice 3/4 step system

[@MissAdamLambert888]

omg thank you so much! I was totally curious on your take about skincare for ladies in their 20's.

[@MH-yu7gw]

Amazing thank you!

[@cristinaoniscenco7274]

I am curious about Mineral Make-up

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie goes into more detail about mineral makeup in the next episode, which will be up on our channel next week!

[@mariedrapalova7365]

I tried to find the list of ingredients for Serum C and the web sent 404 page not found

[@aande5348]

Marie Drapalova you can check it on her website. It is simply 2 harsh silicons that give you a feeling of moist, vitamin C and preservative. That’s it 🤷🏼‍♀️. The biggest issue is a light bottle and not a dark one!!! Vit C can change when it is exposed to light and harm your skin, dna and cause cancer.

[@salliewhite]

Wish there was a list of products and links. Had to watch a second time and take notes. And are you saying Vit C should only be used alone? Confused.

[@houda_2296]

Sallie White there is a list in the description box

[@salliewhite]

Fantastic - thanks for adding the info!

[@luciwelch]

Sallie White I think she meant that you use vitamin c with the rest of the routine, but you have to wait for things to dry before using it

[@salliewhite]

Ahhhhh! Thank you for clarifying. That makes sense.

[@TheVioletFiles]

Product list is in the description and at 7:27 Also, in response to your question, Melanie says: No. You should wait until the toner soaks in (if you use one) and the skin is dry to the touch, then apply Vitamin C. Don't put your next product on until the C has had time to set (5-10 min). Just give it a moment on it’s own to shine. It works best like that. Trust me :)

[@ART-Lys]

Thanks-thanks-thanks a lot!

[@jomalavasi]

What are the differences between all the P50's? Why is the 1970 the best?

[@TheVioletFiles]

Melanie says: I personally love P50 1970 the most because it's the most exfoliating of all the P50's. It also clarifies my skin and keeps me from breaking out.

[@richrnndz2]

Melanie has an incredible facial in Beverly Hills I want to try

[@t.kuykendall517]

Thank you.

[@vincelee7509]

How about facial oils? Where does it come in? Like, rosehip oil, jojoba oil, sunflower seed oil, etc

[@Tatiana-os1il]

Can someone at violet gray please find out who makes this blouse?

[@TheVioletFiles]

The blouse is White T by Alexander Wang :)

[@Tatiana-os1il]

Grey** 😘😘

[@sureha998]

Is this your night time routine ????

[@melrose8213]

You are so elegant and beautiful. Wow. And your ring!

[@angelureyes4765]

What about essential oils? Where does that go?

[@cristinatacaciu4869]

Essential oils are irritant for the skin . Avoid them and focus on vegetable oil such as argan or rosehipseed oil

[@blueblackyellow]

Angelu Reyes do clinical research. Essential oils are a marketing gimmick. Total skin irritants.

[@Positivevibes731]

essential oils have completely changed and saved my skin ! it is not a gimmick pls watch stefanie nicole she explains oils extremely well. Im a nurse in a cosmetic dermatology office for over 15yrs, essential oils are not bad at all you just have to know which to use. you cant just pick up a random oil at whole foods and apply it on your face.

[@cristinatacaciu4869]

We are not talking about vegetable oils , like argan or rosehip seed oil. Essential oils are plant and root extract in alchohol base. Totally different thing

[@abstinenceofwords]

Essential oils are irritants. Should never be put directly on soon. They should always have a carrier ( base) oil Such as argan oil, rosehip oil, marula oil, etc. Essential oils can be photo toxic. Google essential oils and burns.

[@simonastolpner]

Waving the needle around makes me nervous.

[@Tayl0r_]

What is your opinion on the brand Mario Badescu? I love their toners!!

[@listarr4216]

I use Mario Badescu skin spray !!!

[@kimcremer9910]

There is no need to have the prices on these products. Someone is getting rich!

[@MrMadesire]

🖤🖤🖤

[@hamburgerhelperflick]

focus

[@angie-4514]

why would you wet your pad when using acids?? whats the point of an acid then when the water neutralizes it.

[@angie-4514]

and then she explains how acidic it is, lol

[@angie-4514]

eye cream after moisturizer? this video man...

[@angie-4514]

WHAT is that morning routine 'explanation'?? does she just put the eye cream on without cleansing or she cleanses first and put just the eye cream on? i don't know which is worse to be honest...

[@meriamrezika6535]

vitamin c is such a tricky one. i heard you cant pair it with any chemical exfoliant or be exposed to the sun. also it gets bad fast.

[@msl5131]

Well she applies it after a very strong acid exfoliant so not sure what to make of that??

[@cherryblossom4299]

Why didn't you ACTUALLY put it on your skin instead of talking?? 👎

[@user-nq8nl4wh9w]

cherryblossom because she ain't using the products she's pushing lol

[@TheDuckLamb]

Because she is a business woman and has places to be after