Does it matter what order you apply skincare? The answer is yes, it 100% does! Applying your products in the correct order will help them absorb more effectively and give you the best results from your skincare routine. Here’s the rundown. (And we’ve also got a cheat sheet at the bottom for TL;DR types!)
Your skincare game plan
First, always start your skincare with a clean face. Why? If you’re applying your skincare products on top of a day’s worth of makeup, oil and pollution, you’re just going to trap all that bad stuff on your skin and cause breakouts. (Need some tips on how to do a proper cleanse? Click here!)
Now, in general, the rule is to apply your products from lightest to heaviest—but there are some exceptions. For example, in the morning, you’ll apply your sunscreen last. Technically, that is a “heavier” formula than your serum. But don’t stress too much about that rule, just keep reading for your game plan.
1. Face Mist
This step is optional, but we find that it’s helpful—especially if you tend to let your skin get fully dry after you wash your face. Skincare absorbs better if skin is ever-so-slightly damp (not bone dry). So, if you wash your face then get distracted by Tiktok or Instagram (oops!), a quick mist will re-hydrate your skin.
DF Recommends: Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator
2. Exfoliating Toner
If you’re of a certain age, you may remember toners that literally stung your face when you applied them. These alcohol-based “astringent” toners were NOT doing your skin any favors. Today’s toners, thankfully, are a million times better. Modern exfoliating toners gently resurface, minimize pores, and prep your skin for the rest of your routine. Look for one that’s formulated for sensitive skin, with a gentle acid blend. Just sprinkle a few drops on your fingertips or a cotton pad and apply.
DF Recommends: Botanical Ketoacid Toner
3. Serum
Next up is the workhorse of your skincare routine! Serums have high concentrations of active ingredients that target your specific skin concerns, whether it’s brightening dark spots, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, or boosting firmness. They have a thin, kind of “gel-like” texture that sinks in quickly and helps active ingredients sink right in.
DF Recommends: Hydraflash Active Cocooning Serum
4. Eye Cream
While it’s not strictly necessary, eye creams are often formulated with additional ingredients that help to minimize puffiness or brighten dark circles. If you’re seeing crepey skin or just feel like your undereye area needs a little love, consider adding a separate eye cream to your routine.
DF Recommends: Alpyn Line-Filling Eye Balm
5. Moisturizer
Top your serum off with a moisturizing cream or lotion to add hydration and support your skin barrier. If you’re on the dry side, look for a richer cream. If you have “normal” or combination skin, try a lotion. If you have oily skin, keep in mind that your serum might deliver enough moisture for your skin—especially if it’s a hydrating and repairing serum like our Hydraflash Active Cocooning Serum. Always listen to your skin and make seasonal adjustments if you need to. If you need to add moisturizer in the winter and skip it in the summer, that’s totally okay!
DF Recommends: HydroPeptide Power Lift Advanced Ultra-Rich Moisturizer or Face Lift Advanced Ultra-Light Moisturizer
6. Facial Oil or Slugging Balm
This step is optional for all of you super dry types! When used as a last step, a facial oil or balm forms a “seal” that helps to really trap in moisture and repair a damaged skin barrier. Just be warned, if you’re acne-prone, this step may not be for you—trapping in moisture can also trap in oil, which may lead to breakouts on those struggling with acne.
DF Recommends: Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil or Prequel Skin Utility Ointment
7. Sunscreen
In the daytime, sunscreen is a must! All of the hard work you (and your products) are doing won’t be worth it if you don’t protect your skin. We prefer mineral-based sunscreens, which tend to be less irritating on sensitive skin types, but use whatever formula agrees with your skin—the key with sunscreen is finding one you’ll wear every single day!
DF Recommends: Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen
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Your daytime routine Fact Mist Exfoliating Toner Serum Eye Cream Moisturizer Sunscreen |
Your nighttime routine Fact Mist Exfoliating Toner Serum Eye Cream Moisturizer Facial Oil or Slugging Balm
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Remember, add and take away as needed—always listen to your skin!