What Is The Correct Order To Apply Skin Care: AM & PM Routines

The correct order to apply skincare is generally from thinnest to thickest consistency, allowing each product to properly absorb into the skin. This article dives into the optimal skincare layering sequence for both your morning and evening routines, ensuring you get the most out of your products and achieve maximum absorption.

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Why Skincare Order Matters

The skincare application steps aren’t just arbitrary. Applying products in the wrong order can hinder their effectiveness. Imagine trying to apply a lightweight serum over a thick cream – the serum simply won’t penetrate. Properly following a skincare routine layering guide allows each product to work its magic without interference. Knowing the best order for skincare products can be a game changer.

The Golden Rule: Thin to Thick

This principle guides the optimal skincare routine order. Thinner, water-based products should always go on first, followed by thicker, oil-based ones. This is because thinner products can’t penetrate thicker ones.

Your Morning Skincare Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your morning routine should focus on protecting your skin from the day’s aggressors, like UV radiation and pollution. Here’s a breakdown:

Step 1: Cleanser

• Why: Removes oil, sweat, and any leftover product from your nighttime routine.
• How: Use a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type.
• What to look for: Look for terms such as “gentle”, “non-stripping”, and “hydrating”
• Skip if: You have very dry skin, you might only need to rinse with water.

Step 2: Toner (Optional)

• Why: Balances skin’s pH and preps it for better absorption of other products. Not all skin types will benefit from a toner.
• How: Apply with a cotton pad or directly with your hands.
• Consider: Correct order for toners and essences is before serums and after cleansing.

Step 3: Serum(s)

• Why: Delivers potent ingredients to address specific skin concerns.
• How: Pat gently onto the skin.

• Consider: When to apply serums depends on their consistency. Water-based serums go before oil-based ones.

  • Vitamin C Serum: Apply in the morning for antioxidant protection against free radicals.
  • Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Plumps and hydrates the skin. Can be used morning or night.

Step 4: Eye Cream

• Why: Hydrates and protects the delicate skin around the eyes.
• How: Gently dab around the eye socket using your ring finger.
• What to look for: Creams containing peptides, ceramides and hyaluronic acid are great for hydration.

Step 5: Moisturizer

• Why: Hydrates the skin and creates a barrier to lock in moisture.
• How: Apply evenly over the face and neck.
• Consider: The order of cleansers and moisturizers is crucial – cleanse first, then moisturize.

Step 6: Sunscreen

• Why: Protects skin from harmful UV rays, the leading cause of premature aging and skin cancer.
• How: Apply liberally to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
• Importance: Sunscreen is non-negotiable! Make sure to reapply during the day, especially if outdoors.
• What to look for: Look for an SPF of 30 or higher and broad-spectrum protection.

Step	Product	Purpose
1	Cleanser	Removes impurities
2	Toner (Optional)	Balances pH
3	Serum(s)	Delivers targeted ingredients
4	Eye Cream	Hydrates and protects the eye area
5	Moisturizer	Hydrates and locks in moisture
6	Sunscreen	Protects from UV rays

Your Nighttime Skincare Routine: Repair and Rejuvenate

Your nighttime routine focuses on cleansing, repairing, and hydrating your skin while you sleep.

Step 1: Makeup Remover

• Why: Removes makeup, which cleansers alone may not fully eliminate.
• How: Use a makeup remover wipe, cleansing oil, or micellar water.
• Note: This is especially important if you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen.

Step 2: Cleanser

• Why: Removes any remaining impurities and preps the skin for treatment.
• How: Double cleansing is beneficial for removing all traces of makeup and debris. First cleanse is with an oil-based cleanser, and the second cleanse is with a water-based cleanser.
• Consider: Choose a cleanser suited for your skin type.

Step 3: Exfoliant (1-3 times per week)

• Why: Removes dead skin cells, revealing brighter and smoother skin.
• How: Use a chemical exfoliant (AHA/BHA) or a gentle physical scrub.
• Frequency: Don’t over-exfoliate! Limit to 1-3 times per week.

Step 4: Toner (Optional)

• Why: Balances the skin’s pH and can provide additional hydration.
• How: Apply with a cotton pad or directly with your hands.

Step 5: Essence (Optional)

• Why: Provides a boost of hydration and prepares the skin for serums.
• How: Pat gently onto the skin.
• Consider: Correct order for toners and essences is often debated, but generally, essence goes after toner.

Step 6: Serum(s)

• Why: Delivers potent ingredients to address specific skin concerns.
• How: Apply water based serums before oil based.

• Consider: When to apply serums depends on the ingredients.

  • Retinol Serum: Encourages cell turnover and reduces wrinkles. Use at night only.
  • Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Attracts and retains moisture. Can be used morning or night.
  • Niacinamide Serum: Reduces redness, minimizes pores, and improves skin tone.

Step 7: Eye Cream

• Why: Hydrates and nourishes the delicate skin around the eyes.
• How: Gently dab around the eye socket using your ring finger.

Step 8: Moisturizer or Night Cream

• Why: Hydrates the skin and creates a barrier to lock in moisture.
• How: Apply evenly over the face and neck.
• Consider: Order of cleansers and moisturizers is always cleanser first, then moisturizer.

Step 9: Facial Oil (Optional)

• Why: Provides an extra layer of hydration and locks in all the other products.
• How: Warm a few drops in your hands and gently press onto the skin.
• Note: Use as the last step, as oil can block other products from penetrating.

Step	Product	Purpose	Frequency
1	Makeup Remover	Removes makeup	Daily (if wearing makeup)
2	Cleanser	Removes impurities	Daily
3	Exfoliant	Removes dead skin cells	1-3 times per week
4	Toner (Optional)	Balances pH	Daily
5	Essence (Optional)	Hydrates and preps skin	Daily
6	Serum(s)	Delivers targeted ingredients	Daily
7	Eye Cream	Hydrates and protects the eye area	Daily
8	Moisturizer/Night Cream	Hydrates and locks in moisture	Daily
9	Facial Oil (Optional)	Provides extra hydration and seals in products	As needed

Considerations for Specific Skin Types

While the thin-to-thick rule is a good starting point, you’ll need to adjust your routine based on your skin type.

Dry Skin

• Focus on hydration. Use hydrating cleansers, toners, and serums.
• Don’t skip the facial oil at night.
• Consider using a thicker moisturizer.

Oily Skin

• Use lightweight, non-comedogenic products.
• Consider using a BHA exfoliant to help unclog pores.
• You might be able to skip the facial oil.

Combination Skin

• Address different areas with different products. Use a heavier moisturizer on dry areas and a lighter one on oily areas.
• Consider multi-masking to target different concerns.

Sensitive Skin

• Use gentle, fragrance-free products.
• Patch test new products before applying them to your entire face.
• Avoid harsh exfoliants.

Special Cases and Product Combinations

• Retinol and Vitamin C: Don’t use them at the same time. Retinol is best used at night, while Vitamin C is best used in the morning.
• AHAs/BHAs and Retinol: Use on alternate nights to avoid irritation.
• Multiple Serums: Layer them from thinnest to thickest consistency.
• Spot Treatments: Apply after your serums and before your moisturizer.

Tips for How to Layer Skincare for Maximum Absorption

• Wait time: Allow each product to fully absorb before applying the next one. A minute or two is usually sufficient.
• Less is more: Don’t overload your skin with too many products.
• Listen to your skin: Pay attention to how your skin feels and adjust your routine accordingly.
• Patch test: Always patch test new products before incorporating them into your routine.
• Clean hands: Always wash your hands before applying skincare products.
• Consistency is key: Stick to your routine for at least a few weeks to see results.

The Importance of Consistency and Patience

Remember that skincare is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time to see results, so be patient and consistent with your routine.

In conclusion: Mastering your skincare routine

By following these guidelines and customizing your routine to your unique skin needs, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin! Remember the skincare layering sequence is crucial!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if I only have a few minutes in the morning?

Focus on the essentials: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen.

Can I skip a step in my routine?

Yes, you can adjust your routine based on your skin’s needs and your personal preferences.

Is it okay to use the same products in the morning and at night?

Some products, like moisturizers and hyaluronic acid serums, can be used both morning and night. However, other products, like retinol, are best used at night.

What if I experience irritation from a product?

Stop using the product immediately and consult a dermatologist if the irritation persists.

How often should I change my skincare routine?

You may need to adjust your routine seasonally or as your skin changes.

Why do my products pill?

Pilling can occur when products don’t absorb properly or when certain ingredients react with each other. Try using less product or waiting longer between applications.

What is the ideal time gap between applying each product?

While it depends on the product’s formulation and your skin’s absorbency, a general guideline is 30 seconds to 1 minute between each application. This allows each product to be effectively absorbed without mixing on the surface.

Should I apply skincare to damp or dry skin?

For most products, applying to slightly damp skin can enhance absorption. The moisture helps to carry the product deeper into the skin layers. However, certain ingredients like retinol are best applied on dry skin to minimize irritation.

What should I do if my skin isn’t improving despite a consistent routine?

Consider consulting a dermatologist. There might be underlying skin conditions or factors that require professional assessment and treatment. Also, ensure you’re using products suited for your skin type and concerns and that they are not expired.