How to Layer Your Skincare Products

The right order matters. Here's your clear, no-fluff guide to AM & PM routines.

🌞 AM Routine (Protect & Prevent)

  1. Cleanser

    • Removes overnight oil and creates a fresh base for your skincare.

  2. Toner / Face Mist (Optional)

    • Preps skin by hydrating and balancing pH.
    • Choose a gentle, alcohol-free formula if using.

  3. Spot Treatment (if morning-safe)

    • Apply on clean, dry skin before serums.
    • Use only if the product is safe for daytime use (e.g. salicylic acid, sulfur).
    • Avoid sun-sensitive treatments like benzoyl peroxide unless paired with strong SPF.

  4. Treatments, Serums & Essences

    • Layer from thinnest to thickest: Vitamin C → Niacinamide → Snail Mucin → Acne Gel.
    • Wait 30–60 seconds between layers for best absorption.

  5. Moisturizer

    • Locks in hydration and supports your skin barrier.

  6. Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

    • Always the last skincare step.
    • Do not apply any skincare after sunscreen (except makeup).

  7. Makeup (Optional)

    • Apply makeup once sunscreen has set to avoid disturbing protection.

🌙 PM Routine (Repair & Replenish)

  1. Oil Cleanser / Micellar Water

    • Melts off makeup, sunscreen, and buildup.
    • First step of a double cleanse.

  2. Second Cleanser

    • Water-based cleanser to deeply clean the skin without stripping.

  3. Toner / Face Mist OR Liquid Exfoliant

    • Hydrates or gently exfoliates.
    • Use exfoliants (like AHA/BHA) only a few nights per week.

  4. Spot Treatments (if not using retinoid or exfoliants)

    • Apply directly to clean, dry skin.
    • Let it absorb fully before continuing.
    • Avoid if using retinoid/exfoliants on the same area.

  5. Primary Treatment Serum/Cream (e.g. Retinoids)

    • Apply to clean, dry skin after toner.
    • If skin is sensitive, buffer with moisturizer before and after ("retinol sandwich").

  6. Other Serums

    • Hydrating and repairing serums like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides.
    • Apply from thinnest to thickest.

  7. Eye Cream

    • Tap gently around the orbital bone using your ring finger.
    • Can also be applied before exfoliants or retinoids to protect the delicate eye area from irritation.

  8. Moisturizer

    • Locks in hydration and all previous layers.
    • Use richer textures at night for skin recovery.

  9. Sleep Mask / Face Oil / Petroleum Jelly (Optional)

    • Choose one to seal in hydration.
    • Acts as an overnight barrier to prevent moisture loss.