BEAUTY
We’ve all been there, standing in front of the mirror, layering on serums, creams, and oils, hoping for a blemish free, glowing complexion. But in a world of peptides, acids, and essences, the real question is: are we actually applying our skincare in the right order? Because, spoiler: even the most expensive products won’t do much if they’re layered incorrectly.
From the thinnest formulas to the richest creams, here’s exactly how to apply your skincare for maximum results.
Why Order Matters
Think of your skincare routine like getting dressed, you wouldn’t put your coat on before your underwear, right? The same logic applies here. The order in which you apply products determines how well they absorb, how effectively they work, and whether they end up being completely useless (or worse, causing irritation).
A good rule of thumb? Apply products from the thinnest consistency to the thickest, allowing each layer to penetrate the skin before sealing it in with heavier formulas.
The Correct Order for Your Skincare Routine
Morning Routine: Protect & Hydrate
Your AM skincare should focus on hydration, protection, and prepping your skin for the day ahead.
Step 1: Cleanser
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any sweat, oil, and leftover nighttime products. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a hydrating cleanser. If you wake up with an oily T-zone, a gel or foam cleanser will help balance things out.
Step 2: Essence
Essences provide an extra layer of hydration or treatment. They are most definitely an optional but are a great extra boost. Korean brands do essences particularly well.
Step 3: Serums (Apply Thinnest to Thickest)
Serums are the power players in your routine, delivering high concentrations of active ingredients. Apply water-based serums first (like hyaluronic acid for hydration or vitamin C for brightness), followed by any slightly thicker ones.
Step 4: Eye Cream
If you use an eye cream, apply it before heavier creams so it can absorb properly. Use your ring finger (it applies the least pressure) and tap gently, no rubbing!
Step 5: Moisturiser
Lock in all that goodness with a hydrating moisturiser. Gel-based moisturisers work well for oily skin, while richer creams are great for dry skin types.
Step 6: SPF
SPF always goes last. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is essential, even if you're just sitting inside scrolling TikTok all day. If you’re using a chemical sunscreen, wait a few minutes after applying your moisturiser so it can fully absorb.
Night Routine: Repair & Rejuvenate
Your PM routine is all about repairing the skin from daily exposure to pollution, UV rays, and makeup.
Step 1: Double Cleanse (Especially if you wear makeup, SPF or live in a city)
Start with an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to remove sunscreen, makeup and grime, then follow up with a water-based cleanser to cleanse your skin thoroughly.
Step 2: Exfoliate
If you use chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs, or PHAs), apply them after cleansing and before serums. If you’re using a retinol, avoid exfoliating on the same night to prevent irritation.
Step 3: Treatments & Serums
Nighttime is when your skin regenerates, so this is when you should apply ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hydrating serums. If using multiple serums, apply from thinnest to thickest.
Step 4: Eye Cream
Same rule as the morning sister, apply it gently before heavier creams.
Step 5: Moisturiser or Night Cream
A richer night cream helps repair and hydrate the skin overnight. If your skin is on the drier side, look for formulas with ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid.
Step 6: Facial Oils (If Using)
Oils are always last! They create a barrier that locks in moisture, but if applied too early, they can prevent other products from absorbing.
Common Mistakes That Are Wrecking Your Routine
Mixing Ingredients That Don’t Play Well Together
- Retinol + AHAs/BHAs = irritation overload
- Vitamin C + Niacinamide = less effective (unless formulated together)
- Retinol + Vitamin C = too much for sensitive skin
Rubbing Instead of Patting
Skincare isn’t a workout. Pat products in gently rather than rubbing them aggressively (especially around the eyes).
Skipping SPF Just Because It’s Cloudy
UVA rays (the ones responsible for premature aging) penetrate through clouds and windows. No excuses.
Not Waiting Between Steps
Some products, like vitamin C and retinol, need a few minutes to absorb before layering on the next step. Rushing through your routine can dilute their effectiveness.