Serums deliver concentrated actives, but the order you apply them in changes how well they work. The golden rule is simple: thinnest to thickest.
The basic order
- Cleanser
- Toner or essence
- Water-based serums
- Oil-based serums
- Moisturizer
- SPF (morning only)
Actives that should not share a routine
Keep strong exfoliating acids and retinoids on separate nights. Vitamin C works best in the morning under SPF, while retinoids belong in the evening.
Give each layer a moment
Wait 30–60 seconds between layers so each one can absorb before the next.
