Let’s talk about the correct skincare routine order. When you are layering skincare products, it is important you know what you are doing. Whether you have as little as 2 products or as many as 8, the order in which you apply them makes a difference.
Don’t let that overwhelm you, though. If you are struggling to remember the correct skincare routine order remind yourself that you are not alone.
This article is going to show you a few ways to help you remember the correct skincare routine order, and I’ll even be sharing my favorite skincare products along the way.
At the end, if you still have a lot of questions, head over to my post on the Most Common Skincare Questions Answered or you can always leave a comment below and I will get back with you ASAP.
*DISCLOSURE: Everything in this post is a personal recommendation based off my opinion. If you are having issues with a certain area or product, I recommend consulting your dermatologist or doctor.
This post contains affiliate links. This means, if a purchase is made, I will receive a commission at no additional charge to you. Thank you for your support!
Grab your skincare cheatsheet!(PDF printable)
Applying your skincare products in the correct order DOES matter and can make a huge difference.
Certain products set the tone and prepare the skin for the next one. Mixing up the order or skipping a step can hold you back from all the incredible benefits each product has to offer.
With that being said…..I realize trying to remember everything can be a little unrealistic.
So, to make things easier I created a printable skincare cheatsheet. (4 versions actually 😂)
This print can be used as a “cheatsheet” you put in your cosmetic bag and reference as needed OR it can be used chic bathroom decor.
Decor Tip: Print it off on gloss paper, throw it in a dainty gold frame, place it in your bathroom next to some faux hydrangeas and you are good to go. 😍
Click HERE to check out the prints from Etsy!
Below is a summary of everything I am going to recommend to you.
Top Skincare Products Mentioned:
- Cleanser:
- Toner:
- Serum:
- Eye cream:
- Treatment:
- Moisturizer:
- SPF:
Order of Skincare Products
Step #1: Cleanse
The first step in every skincare routine should be a deep cleansing of the face.
Washing your face every single morning helps prepare your skin for the day (and it provides a clean slate for any additional skincare products)!
Then, in the evening before bed is when you DOUBLE cleanse.
Why should you double cleanse before bed?
This is my most common skincare question that I love answering because it honestly just makes sense.
First cleanse = removing your makeup. Second cleanse = washing your face.
Think of double cleansing like taking a shower. You wouldn’t take a shower without taking your clothes off, so why would you wash your face without taking your makeup off?
You want to remove all your makeup, and any traces of dirt/oil before you try to clean the skin.
Skipping the second cleanse can lead to bacteria build up, makeup residue and other junk that can lead to breakouts and aging. (neither of which we want)
Mind blown, right?!
My Favorite Cleansing Products:
NOTE: If you are looking for an amazing cleanser or are still using makeup removing wipes (👎👎👎) I HIGHLY recommend the take the day off cleansing balm.
If you are looking for something that is just as easy as a makeup wipe but does an even better job, you guys need this balm. It literally melts your makeup off plus, it lasts a long time.
Step #2: Tone
Step #2 = toner.
If you aren’t using a toner, I recommend you start ASAP.
In my opinion, toners are hands down the most important step in everyones skincare routine.
If you are just starting out with a skincare routine and don’t want to overwhelm yourself with a bunch of products, I recommend you make a toner your top priority.
** Important read: How your skin benefits from toners (they are insanely important) **
My Favorite Toner:
I have used a lot of toners out there and this one is the winner by a long shot! If you are doubtful, let the 5 star reviews back me up!
There are a lot of great toners out there, but I prefer this one because it is so universal. Klairs is gentle on the skin but still very effective. It doesn’t burn, create irritation and best part is it is so affordable.
Step #3: Serum
Step #3 = serums!
Understanding the proper use of a serum is when you really start to benefit from any skincare regimen. They offer tons of vitamins your skin needs and do SO much.
The two most popular serums you may want/need are (1) Hyaluronic Acid and (2) Vitamin C.
(If you are only looking to get one serum to start with, I personally recommend starting with a Vitamin C.)
My Favorite Serums:
- Hyalouronic Acid: Ordinary — (best product for price)
- Vitamin C: Mario Badescu Vitamin C
When it comes to the order to apply your serums, a general rule of thumb is apply them lightest to heaviest.
So in this case, apply the vitamin C first then follow with the Hyaluronic Acid.
Step #4: Eye cream
PSA: You are never too young to start using an eye cream.
Step #4 = EYE CREAM!
The eye around you skin is the most delicate area and is the first to fall victim to aging. Keep this skin supple and strong with a good eye cream.
My Favorite Eye Cream:
Step #5: Treatments
Step #5 = treatments!
Not all skin concerns are the same. This step is where you can really customize your skincare routine to fit your specific concerns with various treatments.
Examples of common skin concerns include: anti aging, acne, blemishes, black heads, wrinkles, dryness, hyper pigmentation, etc.
These concerns can be targeted with various treatments such as:
- face masks
- exfoliant peels
- acne treatments
- retinal (at night)
- additional serums
My skin type is normal – dry with the occasional hormonal breakout. To maintain this, I try to do a face mask at least twice per week.
My Current Favorite Treatments:
- For Acne:
- Face masks:
- Peels:
- Additional serums:
- Citra Firm Exuviance (my ALL TIME favorite)
Step #6: Moisturize
Step #6 = moisturize!
I am really picky when it comes to my moisturizer. I want one that feels silky on my skin but also really hydrates and moisturizes it.
Below I listed my top three favorite moisturizers that I switch between often.
My Favorite Moisturizers:
- Clinique Moisture Surge (for a cooling/gel texture)
- VelvetSkin Melting Moisturizer (best price for an amazing product — my favorite!)
- Kiehls Ultra Facial Cream (thick moisturizer great for dry skin)
Step #7: SUNSCREEN
Please, don’t go through all of these steps and trouble just to undo it all by not using sunscreen.
