Why Does Order Matter?
The correct product order ensures all active ingredients reach your skin and can work effectively. Wrong order can block absorption or reduce product effectiveness. The basic rule is simple: apply from thinnest to thickest textures.
Basic Layering Rules
Remember:
Water-based products before oil-based
Thin textures before thick
Active ingredients on clean skin
SPF always as last skincare step
You can have the best products in the world, but if you don't apply them in the right order, you're wasting their potential.
Dr. Sam Bunting, DermatologistMorning Routine
Morning routine focuses on protection and preparing skin for the day:
1. Cleansing
In the morning, gentle cleansing or just water is enough. Remove overnight oil and product residue.
2. Toner (optional)
Balances skin pH and prepares it for following products. Optional step.
3. Serum (Vitamin C)
Vitamin C in the morning for antioxidant protection. Brightens and protects against free radicals.
4. Eye Cream (optional)
Special care for the delicate skin around eyes.
5. Moisturizer
Hydration and locking in all previous layers. Choose based on skin type.
6. SPF (MANDATORY!)
The most important step! SPF 30+ every day, even when cloudy. Protects against aging and skin cancer.
Evening Routine
Evening routine is time for regeneration and active ingredients:
1. Double Cleanse
First oil cleanser (removes makeup, SPF), then water-based cleanser (cleans pores).
2. Exfoliation (2-3x weekly)
Chemical exfoliant (AHA/BHA). Not daily! Removes dead cells.
3. Toner
Hydrating toner to prepare skin for serums.
4. Serum (Retinol/Niacinamide)
Evening is time for active ingredients. Retinol for anti-aging, niacinamide for pores.
5. Eye Cream
Special care for eye area, may contain retinol in lower concentration.
6. Night Cream / Oil
Richer texture than day cream. Skin regenerates during sleep.
Important Combination Rules
Some ingredients don't work well together. Here's what not to combine:
⚠ Retinol + AHA/BHA
Don't combine on the same night. Both ingredients can irritate skin. Alternate evenings.
⚠ Retinol + Vitamin C
Can inactivate each other. Vitamin C in morning, retinol in evening.
✓ Niacinamide + most ingredients
Niacinamide is safe with most ingredients. Great for combining.
✓ Starting out?
Add one new product per week. That way you'll know how your skin reacts.
Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF 50+
Invisible Fluid SPF 50+Our absolute favorite for everyday use. Ultra-light texture, no white cast, and patented Mexoryl XL filter for maximum photostable protection.
Recommended Products for Your Routine
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Hydrating Cleanser
Gentle cleansingGentle cleansing gel with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Doesn't disrupt skin hydration.
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Hydrating serumIntense hydration with multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid.
Toleriane Sensitive
Moisturizing creamLight moisturizing cream for sensitive skin with prebiotic thermal water.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Basic routine is: cleansing, moisturizer, SPF (morning). Everything else is a bonus based on skin needs.
Usually just wait until product dries (30-60 seconds). Let retinol absorb 5-10 minutes before cream.
Yes, but from thinnest to thickest. Maximum 2-3 serums, otherwise you risk pilling.
Apply spot treatment after serums, before moisturizer, directly on problem areas.
Usually yes. Richer textures in winter, lighter in summer. SPF year-round.
Build Your Routine
Browse our reviews and find products for every step.
