You’ve got the basics down: cleanse, moisturize, sunscreen. Maybe you even exfoliate a few times a week. But there’s one skincare step many people skip—and it could be the reason your products aren’t working as well as they should.

That step? Layering your skincare correctly.

It sounds simple, but applying products in the wrong order can reduce their effectiveness, waste your money, and leave your skin less than radiant. Let’s break down why this step matters and how to master it.

Why Skincare Layering Matters

Every product in your routine has a purpose, from cleansing away impurities to locking in hydration. But when you apply them haphazardly, active ingredients can clash or fail to absorb properly. By learning how to layer your skincare for maximum results, you give each product its best chance to shine.

The Golden Rule: Thinnest to Thickest

woman serum

Think of your skincare like building a wardrobe: you’d put on a camisole before a coat, right? The same logic applies to skincare. Start with the lightest, water-based products (like toners and serums) and work your way up to thicker creams and oils. This ensures your skin actually receives the benefits of every product.

Common Mistakes When Layering

The Routine You Should Follow

  1. Cleanser – removes dirt, oil, and makeup.

  2. Toner/Essence – preps skin to absorb treatments.

  3. Serums – targeted treatments (vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, etc.).

  4. Moisturizer – locks in hydration.

  5. Sunscreen (AM only) – shields from UV damage.

Want a deeper dive? Skincare 101: Tips for Healthy and Happy Skin offers an excellent foundation for building your routine.

Bonus Boosts

woman eye cream

Once you’ve mastered layering, you can personalize with extras:

Final Thoughts

Skipping steps in your skincare routine is one thing—but skipping the order of application is where most people go wrong. By layering properly, you’ll maximize every product’s potential and finally see the glowing results you’ve been chasing.

For more inspiration, check out Unlock Radiant Skin: Essential Skincare Tips for a Glowing You. Your skin will thank you.