Curious about how to apply your skincare products in the right order? You’re not alone! One of the most common questions I get is, “What order should I apply my products?” Applying them in the right sequence makes a huge difference in how well they work.

Here’s the golden rule: apply products from the thinnest to the thickest consistency, or from the lowest molecular weight to the highest. This way, your lightweight serums are able to penetrate appropriately into your skin without a heavier product blocking the way. Think of it like dressing for cold weather—you wouldn’t put a thick sweater on first and then try to squeeze a tank top over it, right?

The Perfect Order for Layering Your Skincare:

1. Cleanser

Always start with a clean face! A gentle cleanser removes dirt, oil, and leftover makeup so your skin is ready to soak up the good stuff. Follow the cleanser’s instructions for optimal use—some may recommend working the product in before adding water or cleansing for a specific amount of time before rinsing. Remember: the goal is to cleanse, not strip! Your skin shouldn’t feel tight or “squeaky clean” after this step, but refreshed and hydrated.

Some great options that cleanse without stripping your skin are: Hale & Hush’s Quiet Wash, Face Reality’s Ultra Gentle Gel Cleanser, and Face Reality’s Barrier Balance Creamy Cleanser.

2. Toner (Optional, but great!)

Not everyone uses a toner, but it can be a great addition depending on your skin’s needs. Toners have come a long way from the harsh, alcohol-based formulas of the past. More and more brands are formulating toners with a healthy skin barrier in mind, offering options that support hydration, balance oil production, and enhance the absorption of serums and treatments. Contrary to popular belief, your toner IS NOT an extra step in your cleansing process—it is a treatment in its own right with its own contributions to your overall skin health. Ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera help to replenish hydration, while antioxidants can protect your skin from environmental stressors. This is your opportunity to nourish and support your skin, prepping it for the next steps in your routine and giving it the foundation it needs to thrive.

Try Face Reality’s Moisture Balance Toner if you’re struggling with dryness or sensitivity. Or Hale & Hush’s Clear Future Toner if you need a gentle option for oil control.

3. Lightweight Serums (Water-Based)

This is where the magic happens! Your serum is the powerhouse of your skincare routine, delivering a high concentration of active ingredients designed to target specific skin concerns, such as hydration, brightening, or anti-aging. It is formulated to have a small molecular structure that allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin. If a larger molecular weight product is applied before your serum, it will block the serum’s absorption and make the serum less effective. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C work best when they can absorb deeply into the skin.

The serum you choose depends on your skin type, condition, and goals. For example, hyaluronic acid helps to deeply hydrate and plump the skin, while niacinamide works to soothe inflammation and strengthen the skin’s barrier. Vitamin C, on the other hand, not only brightens the complexion but also defends against free radicals that contribute to premature aging. If you’re unsure which serum is best for your skin, your esthetician can provide personalized recommendations.

Serums like Lira Clinical’s PRO Lite Serum and Face Reality’s glowTone™ Corrective Serum assist in correcting discoloration. While serums like Face Reality’s hydraBalance Gel help to hydrate and soothe the skin.

4. Heavier Serums & Treatments (More Viscous)

Just like with your lightweight serums, the thin-to-thick rule still applies here. If you’re using retinol, a thicker peptide serum, or another more viscous treatment, it should be applied after your more water-based or lighter serums. As you become more familiar with your products, you’ll begin to recognize the differences in their consistency, which will help you determine the order of application.

Face Reality offers a line of lightweight serums called Hydrators, which can be applied both before and after heavier serums to provide an extra boost of hydration for dehydrated skin.

5. Moisturizer

Moisturizer is an essential step in your skincare routine, helping to lock in hydration and maintain a healthy skin barrier. It creates a protective layer that prevents moisture loss and keeps your skin feeling soft and nourished. Even if your skin is oily or acne prone, do not skip this step! Your skin barrier needs hydration to function properly, and when it’s dehydrated, it can actually produce more oil to compensate—leading to excess shine and breakouts. Instead of skipping moisturizer, opt for a lightweight, noncomedogenic formula that hydrates without feeling heavy.

For those with dry or sensitized skin, look for a moisturizer with rich, soothing ingredients like ceramides, squalene, or fatty acids. These ingredients help restore the skin’s barrier and prevent moisture from evaporating, providing lasting hydration without irritation. Choose a fragrance-free, gentle formula to avoid triggering sensitivities.

Face Reality’s clearDerma Moisturizer is a lightweight moisturizer and a great option for oily/acne prone skin. Hale & Hush’s Hush Hydrate Gel is great for dry/sensitized skin.

6. Sunscreen (AM only)

Always, always finish with SPF in the morning. No matter how perfect your skincare routine is, unprotected sun exposure can undo it all. Many skip sunscreen because it can feel heavy, greasy, or leave a white cast. With so many formulas available, there’s one out there that works for you skin type—you just have to find the right one. Look for broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to keep your skin protected and healthy.

My current go-to sunscreen is Face Reality’s Daily SPF 30 Plus. As someone with oily, acne-prone, and melanated skin, I love that it feels lightweight, blends effortlessly, and leaves no white cast.

A Few Extra Tips for Layering Like a Pro:

• Give each product a moment to absorb before moving on to the next step—around 1-2 minutes is optimal.
• If a product feels like it’s pilling (those annoying little flakes), try reducing the amount you’re using or adjusting your layering order.
• Avoid piling on too many active ingredients, as this can lead to irritation or a compromised skin barrier.
• Listen to your skin. If you notice increased sensitivity while using certain actives, it may be a sign that the product isn’t right for your skin or that your routine needs adjusting.
• When in doubt, reach out to your esthetician! They can provide personalized advice tailored to your skin’s specific needs and help you make the best choices for your routine. Your esthetician is your partner in achieving healthy, glowing skin, so don’t hesitate to ask for guidance if you’re ever uncertain about a product or step in your routine.

Mastering dermal layering is a game-changer for getting the best results from your skincare routine. So next time you’re applying your products, think thin to thick and let your skin drink up all that goodness. Your future glow will thank you!

What’s your go-to skincare routine? Have you been layering your products correctly? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Disclaimer: The content on this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. As a licensed esthetician and registered nurse, I share insights based on my training and experience; however, skincare is personal, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have persistent skin concerns, underlying conditions, or are unsure about a product or treatment, consider consulting a qualified healthcare provider or dermatologist. Cherish Beauty Aesthetics is not responsible for any adverse reactions or outcomes from following the information provided.