Tips on How To Layer Your Skincare
I am often asked about the order of application for skincare products so I wanted to share this video I posted on TikTok and a bit more detail below. Of course how you apply your skincare depends on the specific products in your routine so it is hard to answer for everyone but there are some general guidelines that may help.
The easiest rule of thumb is after cleansing to apply products from thinnest to thickest (lightest weight to heaviest) when it comes to your serums, lotions and creams. One caveat to this is if you are using oils in your routine (not something I frequently recommend) they should be applied after your other products because they can block absorption.
So for a morning routine the order would generally be:
Cleanser
Toner (if used)
Serums (lightest to heaviest)
Moisturizer
Oil (if used)
Sunscreen
Makeup (if using, and it’s good to let your SPF set for a couple of minutes before applying makeup)
And for an evening routine follow the same first five steps. If you are using a prescription topical as well it’s best to talk to your doctor about timing of application.
Where it starts to get a bit confusing is when you have a multi-step, multi-ingredient routine and want to account for other best practices. I’ve said before I don’t like skincare “rules” and there are so many nuances but some things you may want to keep in mind:
Hydrating ingredients and humectants, like hyaluronic acid, can be more effective when applied to damp skin. If using a HA serum also be sure to lock in hydration with a moisturizer
Retinoids and topical Vitamin C should be applied to dry skin. I generally recommend retinoids in the evening and Vitamin C in the morning
Be mindful of how many exfoliating ingredients you may be using to avoid compromising your skin barrier
Lastly, if this all seems too complicated or if you have so many products in your routine that you are having a hard time figuring out how to layer them, it may be time to scale back your routine.