The core rule for layering skincare is thinnest to thickest texture — a product applied too early in the routine can physically block everything layered on top of it from absorbing properly. Use the chart below as a direct reference for any routine.
Morning Order
| Step | Product Type | Why It Goes Here |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cleanser | Removes overnight buildup before anything else is applied |
| 2 | Toner (if used) | Preps skin and removes any residual cleanser |
| 3 | Essence (if used) | Adds a lightweight hydration layer before treatment products |
| 4 | Serum | Concentrated actives applied to clean, dry skin for best absorption |
| 5 | Eye cream (if used) | Lighter formulas typically go before heavier face moisturizer |
| 6 | Moisturizer | Seals in everything applied underneath |
| 7 | SPF | Always last, as the final protective layer |
Night Order
| Step | Product Type | Why It Goes Here |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Makeup remover / oil cleanser | Dissolves sunscreen, makeup, and oil-based buildup |
| 2 | Water-based cleanser | Removes remaining residue and the oil cleanser itself |
| 3 | Toner (if used) | Preps skin for treatment products |
| 4 | Treatment (retinol, acids, etc.) | Applied to clean, dry skin for best absorption and reduced irritation risk |
| 5 | Eye cream (if used) | Lighter texture before heavier night cream |
| 6 | Moisturizer | Richer night formula supports overnight repair |
| 7 | Face oil (if used) | Always last, sealing in every layer underneath |
Pro tip: When in doubt about where a new product fits, check its texture against what's already in your routine. Anything watery generally goes earlier; anything oil-based or occlusive (like a face oil or a thick balm) goes last, regardless of what step number a brand's marketing suggests.
Products That Don't Fit the Standard Order
Not every product follows a strict place in this sequence. Spot treatments are typically applied directly to a specific area, either right after cleansing or as the very last step, depending on the specific product's instructions — check the packaging rather than assuming.
Watch out: Applying sunscreen before moisturizer, rather than after, is one of the most common ordering mistakes. Sunscreen needs to sit on top as the final layer to form an even, effective barrier — burying it under a moisturizer can reduce how evenly and effectively it protects your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does sunscreen go before or after moisturizer?
After — sunscreen should always be the final step in a morning routine, applied on top of moisturizer, to form an even protective layer.
What order should serum and moisturizer go in?
Serum goes first, applied to clean, dry skin, followed by moisturizer, which helps seal the serum's active ingredients in.
Where does face oil fit in a skincare routine?
Face oil is always the last step, applied on top of moisturizer, since its job is to seal in everything layered underneath rather than absorb into skin directly.
Explore our full skincare routine collection to build a routine that layers correctly from day one.
