Order of Skincare: The Right Way to Layer Your Products
Getting the sequence right can make a huge difference in how your skin looks and feels. Too many people wash, pour a serum on, and then skip the sunscreen, or they pile on moisturiser before the active treatment. Below you’ll find a clear, no‑fluff guide that you can start using today.
Step‑by‑Step Routine
1. Cleanser – Start with a gentle cleanser that matches your skin type. Wet your face, massage the product for 30 seconds, then rinse with lukewarm water. This removes dirt, oil and any leftover makeup, creating a clean canvas for the next steps.
2. Toner – If you use a toner, apply it right after cleansing. Toners help balance pH and prepare the skin to absorb actives. Pat it in with your palms or a cotton pad; don’t rub.
3. Treatments (Serums, Spot Treatments, Acids) – This is where you target specific concerns. Light, water‑based serums go before thicker ones. For example, a vitamin C serum in the morning and a retinol serum at night. Let each layer sit for about a minute before moving on.
4. Eye Cream – If you use an eye cream, dab a tiny amount around the orbital bone. The skin here is thin, so a little goes a long way.
5. Moisturiser – Choose a moisturizer that fits your skin’s needs – gel for oily, cream for dry. Moisturiser locks in the previous layers and adds a barrier to keep moisture in.
6. Sunscreen (AM only) – This is the final step in the morning. Use at least SPF 30 and reapply if you’re out for more than two hours. Sunscreen protects everything you’ve just applied from UV damage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the toner isn’t always a deal‑breaker, but rubbing your face hard with a towel can irritate the skin and undo the benefits of your cleanser. Also, applying a thick cream before a serum can block the serum’s actives, so always keep the order from lightest to heaviest.
Another pitfall is mixing actives that don’t play well together, like using a strong acid and retinol in the same routine. Stick to one potent active per day or alternate nights to avoid irritation.
Finally, don’t forget to adjust the routine for the season. In winter, you might need a richer moisturizer and an extra barrier oil; in summer, a lighter gel and more frequent sunscreen re‑application are key.
By following this simple order, you’ll see better absorption, fewer breakouts, and a more even complexion. It’s not about having a massive shelf of products – it’s about using the right ones in the right sequence.
Ready to give it a try? Start with the basics, add one new product a week, and watch how your skin responds. Your skin will thank you for the clear, step‑by‑step care you’re now giving it.
