If you’ve ever wondered why your skincare isn’t delivering the results you were promised, the answer might lie in the order you’re applying your products. Think of layering skincare like building a house—if the foundation isn’t solid, the rest won’t hold. The same goes for your morning and evening routines.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the ideal way to layer your skincare products for maximum effectiveness, and I’ll throw in a few must-read skincare reviews and pro tips to help you get that healthy, glowing complexion you’re after.

Step 1: Cleanser First, Always

A clean face is the most important step. Without removing dirt, sweat, and makeup, nothing you apply afterward will truly sink in. Whether you’re using a gentle cleanser for sensitive skin or one that doubles as a makeup remover, make sure it suits your skin type. If you’re unsure what that is, check out this guide on understanding common skin types.

Step 2: Exfoliate (But Not Daily)

Exfoliating clears dead skin cells and helps your other products absorb better. That said, over-exfoliation can damage your barrier. Keep it to 2–3 times a week. And if you’re a fan of dry brushing, it’s a great way to stimulate circulation and prep your skin, especially for the body.

Step 3: Tone to Reset

woman skincare toner

Toners balance your pH after cleansing. This step is especially helpful if you’re layering serums next. Choose a toner that’s hydrating, calming, or clarifying, depending on your goals. Want to focus on protecting your skin from environmental damage? Look for ingredients like niacinamide or green tea.

Step 4: Apply Serums (Thinnest to Thickest)

Serums are concentrated treatments—this is where the magic happens. Layer them in order of consistency: watery first, then thicker textures. If you’re dealing with acne-prone skin, try a targeted serum with salicylic acid. For anti-aging, ingredients like peptides or hyaluronic acid work well.

Still figuring out which formulas work for you? Dive into this breakdown of top-rated skincare products from Introstem or check out the powerhouse Lavelier Marine Collection that uses ocean-based ingredients for hydration and repair.

Step 5: Eye Cream Before Moisturizer

This is a commonly skipped step, but applying eye cream before moisturizer helps it sink into the delicate under-eye area. If dark circles are your main concern, here’s a helpful post on how to fix them for good.

Pro tip: use your ring finger and tap (don’t rub!) the product into the skin.

Step 6: Moisturize to Seal It In

Now that all your serums and treatments are on, it’s time to lock it in with a moisturizer. This step helps seal in hydration and protect your skin barrier.

Looking for a new favorite? The Oceana Collection from Lavelier is rich without being greasy, and works well under makeup too.

Step 7: Sunscreen—Your Skin’s Best Defense

woman sunscreen

If it’s daytime, this is the most important step. UV rays cause premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and inflammation. Even if you’re staying indoors, sunscreen year-round is non-negotiable. Look for SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours if you’re out and about.

Bonus: Face Oils and Sleeping Masks (Nighttime Only)

At night, you can add face oils or a sleeping mask as your final step, but only after your moisturizer. These are occlusive, meaning they trap in all the goodness from earlier steps.

Curious about luxury options? Take a look at Celestolite’s top skincare picks or the glamorous Bionyx Rhodium Collection for that spa-level nighttime routine.

Smart Tips for Smarter Skincare

  • Don’t skip your routine. Even one night off can cause dullness or breakouts. Here’s what happens when you skip.

  • Balance skincare and makeup. If you over-prioritize one, the other suffers. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance.

  • Lifestyle matters. Exercise, sleep, and hydration impact your skin more than you think. These fun ways to stay fit can help your glow from the inside out.

  • Explore your ingredients. Some of the best skincare secrets are hiding in your pantry. This guide to kitchen-based skin fixes is surprisingly effective!

Final Thoughts

Layering skincare doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs to be intentional. With the right products, applied in the right order, you can elevate your glow, reduce issues like dryness or acne, and build a routine that supports you day and night.

For more product breakdowns, routines, and honest brand reviews, explore the Ultimate Skincare Routine for Glowing Skin or unpack the best of CbGardn for some inspiration.

Let your skincare do the work—smartly.