The general rule is thinnest to thickest – water-based products first, heavier creams and oils last. After cleansing, apply hydrating toners or essences while skin is still slightly damp. Follow with serums, applying water-based serums before oil-based ones. Then moisturizer to seal in everything underneath. If you use a facial oil, apply it over moisturizer. Sunscreen always goes last in the morning. At night, apply treatment actives like retinol before your moisturizer, not after. Give each layer at least 30 seconds to absorb before adding the next, especially on mature skin that can pill if you rush.
