When it comes to skincare, knowing what products to use is only half the battle. The other half? Figuring out the correct order to layer them so you can get the maximum benefit. Using great products but applying them in the wrong order might limit their effectiveness. Let me walk you through the steps to layer skincare products correctly, ensuring your skin looks healthy and radiant.
Why is Layering Important?
Layering skincare products in the correct order allows each one to absorb fully and do its job effectively. Different products contain various active ingredients that perform best when given the proper environment. For instance, a serum meant to hydrate won’t be able to work if it’s applied over a thick moisturizer that blocks its absorption. By learning the proper layering order, you ensure that every single product in your arsenal is pulling its weight.
The golden rule for layering is to go from thinnest to thickest. Generally, lighter, more watery formulations are designed to penetrate the skin deeply, whereas thicker creams provide a barrier to seal in moisture.
Let’s go step-by-step through an ideal routine for layering your skincare products. We’ll cover both morning and nighttime regimens.
Step-by-Step Morning Skincare Routine
Cleanser
Cleansing is the first step, both in the morning and at night. In the morning, a gentle, hydrating cleanser is perfect to remove the natural oils and residues that have accumulated overnight. Look for cleansers with a gentle, pH-balanced formula like the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, which is highly rated.
Toner
Toners help balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for the rest of the routine. You want to use a toner that will give you a clean base without stripping away moisture. Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner is a cult favorite that’s alcohol-free and suitable for all skin types.
Vitamin C Serum
In the morning, it’s ideal to use a vitamin C serum, as it offers antioxidant protection against free radicals and environmental damage. A popular choice is the TruSkin Vitamin C Serum, which contains vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. This product is well-reviewed and is often seen as a great starter vitamin C for anyone new to serums.
Eye Cream
Next, use an eye cream to address any dark circles or puffiness. It’s important to be gentle when applying products around your eyes—just a dab on your ring finger will do. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Eye Gel Cream is great for a lightweight, hydrating option and has thousands of positive reviews.
Moisturizer
Apply a lightweight moisturizer next. In the morning, it’s best to go for something hydrating but not too heavy. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel works really well, as it’s oil-free and contains hyaluronic acid for a boost of hydration without feeling greasy.
Sunscreen
The most important step of your morning skincare routine is sunscreen. UV rays are damaging to the skin, and even if you’re inside, indirect sunlight can cause harm. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. The EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is one of the most highly recommended sunscreens on, and it’s known for its lightweight, non-greasy feel. Always apply sunscreen last, as it is meant to sit on the surface of your skin to shield it from the sun.
Step-by-Step Nighttime Skincare Routine
1. Cleanser (Double Cleanse If Wearing Makeup)
If you’ve been wearing makeup during the day, you might want to double cleanse at night. This involves using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup followed by a water-based one to cleanse your skin thoroughly. DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is a great choice for an oil cleanser, as it’s gentle but effective at dissolving makeup. Follow up with a gentle foaming cleanser like the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser.
2. Exfoliate (2-3 Times a Week)
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and helps to improve skin texture. You don’t need to exfoliate every night; two or three times a week should be sufficient. The Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is an effective option that is very well-reviewed, especially for those dealing with congested pores or acne.
3. Toner
Toning after cleansing will help balance the skin’s pH and provide hydration. If you exfoliated, make sure your toner is alcohol-free to avoid over-drying the skin.
4. Treatment Serums (Targeting Specific Concerns)
Nighttime is a great opportunity to use serums that target specific concerns like pigmentation, acne, or aging. A popular choice for anti-aging is The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane. If you’re dealing with acne, try The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, which helps reduce sebum production and calms inflammation.
5. Eye Cream
Similar to the morning routine, applying an eye cream will help keep the delicate skin around your eyes hydrated. At night, you might prefer a cream that targets wrinkles, such as RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream.
6. Hydrating Serum (Optional)
If your skin is feeling dehydrated, you can use a hydrating serum like L’Oreal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum. This step isn’t always necessary but can make a big difference if you are prone to dryness.
7. Moisturizer or Night Cream
Moisturizing at night is key, as it locks in all the products you’ve applied and helps your skin repair while you sleep. You can use a thicker moisturizer at night since you don’t need to worry about layering makeup over it. CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is non-greasy and packed with ceramides and niacinamide, which will help support your skin’s barrier.
8. Face Oil (Optional)
If your skin is particularly dry, you can add a facial oil. A few drops of The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil can help seal in moisture and provide a radiant glow by morning.
Additional Tips for Layering Skincare Products
Wait Between Steps
After each step, give your skin a minute to absorb the product. For instance, wait until your serum feels mostly absorbed before moving on to your moisturizer. This helps prevent pilling (when products rub off the skin in small flakes).
Use Patting Motions
Avoid rubbing your skin too much while applying products, as this can cause irritation. Instead, use a patting motion to help the product absorb. This is particularly important for delicate areas like the eyes.
Adjust Based on Skin Needs
Your skin’s needs can vary based on factors like the weather or hormonal changes. In winter, you might need to add a facial oil or richer moisturizer, while in the summer, you could switch to a lighter formula.
Be Careful with Active Ingredients
Layering active ingredients like vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and retinol requires caution. These ingredients are powerful but can cause irritation if not used correctly. If you’re new to these actives, start slowly—apply them a few times per week and work your way up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Layering Skincare
Can I Mix My Serums Together?
While it may be tempting to mix multiple serums and apply them all at once, it’s usually better to layer them one by one. Mixing can dilute their effectiveness or cause reactions between ingredients. If you’re dealing with multiple skin concerns, prioritize the order based on your primary concern and rotate serums each night rather than layering all of them.
What if My Skin Feels Sticky?
If your skin feels sticky after applying your skincare, it could be a sign that you’re using too much product or that your skin isn’t absorbing it properly. Try using less product and allow more time between each step.
Can I Skip Steps?
Absolutely! You don’t have to follow all the steps every single day. For example, exfoliation is only necessary a few times a week. If your skin feels balanced and healthy without an eye cream or a specific serum, it’s fine to leave it out.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Skincare results vary depending on the product. With consistent use, you may start seeing results from a vitamin C serum within four to six weeks, whereas retinoids may take up to three months for full results. Be patient and stay consistent.
Wrapping Up
Layering your skincare products correctly can be the difference between good skin and great skin. Remember the general rule of thumb: go from lightest to heaviest. Start with products that are most important to your skin concerns and always finish with sunscreen during the day. With consistency and the right routine, your skin will thank you!
All the products mentioned are available and come with excellent reviews—they’re tried, tested, and loved by many. Tailor your routine based on your own skin type and needs, and you’ll be on your way to healthier, more radiant skin in no time.