The Correct Skincare Order: A Dermatologist’s Guide To Layering

If you’ve ever stood in front of your bathroom mirror wondering what order to apply your skincare products, or whether it even matters, you’re not alone. As a dermatologist, one of the most common questions I hear is, “Am I layering my skincare correctly?”

The short answer: yes, the order of skincare absolutely matters. Using products in the wrong sequence can reduce their effectiveness, increase irritation, or cancel out key ingredients altogether.

In this dermatologist-approved guide, I’ll walk you through how to layer skincare properly, explain why the order of skincare products matters, and give you simple AM and PM routines you can actually stick to. Whether you’re a minimalist or a skincare enthusiast, this guide will help you get the most out of your routine.

Why The Order Of Your Skincare Products Matters

Your skin is more than what you see in the mirror. It functions as a protective barrier from the environment, sealing in moisture, shielding from pollutants, and playing an important role in immunity. How you layer your skincare products impacts how well active ingredients penetrate and perform to support your skin’s health and appearance. 

Here’s why skincare order is so important:

• Absorption: Lighter, water-based products absorb best when applied first.
• Efficacy: Certain ingredients (like vitamin C or retinoids) need direct contact with the skin to work properly. 
• Irritation prevention: Incorrect layering can increase dryness, sensitivity, or breakouts.
• Ingredient compatibility: Some actives deactivate each other when layered incorrectly.

Think of skincare like getting dressed. You wouldn’t put your coat on before your shirt. The same logic applies to the correct order for skincare.

Your Dermatologist-Approved Morning (AM) Skincare Routine

Your morning routine is all about protection, prevention, and hydration. Here’s a complete 7-step routine to set your skin up for a beautiful day.

Step 1: Cleanser (Gentle is Key)

Start with a gentle cleanser to remove oil, sweat, and overnight skincare residue without stripping the skin. Harsh cleansers can compromise your barrier before the day even begins.

Step 2: Toner (Optional but Beneficial)

Toners can help rebalance the skin, add hydration, and prep for serums, especially if they contain soothing or humectant ingredients.

Step 3: Antioxidant Serum (e.g., Vitamin C)

Vitamin C is a morning MVP. It helps neutralize free radicals, supports collagen production, and enhances sunscreen protection.¹

Step 4: Eye Cream

Eye creams should be applied before heavier creams to target fine lines and dryness without being diluted.

Step 5: Spot Treatment (If Needed)

If you’re treating active acne or dark spots, apply spot treatments directly to clean skin before moisturizer.

Step 6: Moisturizer (Locking in Hydration)

Even oily skin needs moisturizer. This step seals in hydration and supports the skin barrier.

Step 7: Sunscreen (The Non-Negotiable Final Step)

Sunscreen is always the final step in your morning skin routine order. Apply generously and reapply as needed.

Your Complete Evening (PM) Skincare Routine For Repair

Your skin shifts into repair mode at night. A well-ordered nighttime skincare routine is essential for helping skin heal and rejuvenate from the day. 

Step 1: Double Cleanse (Oil-Based, then Water-Based)

If you wear makeup or sunscreen, start with an oil-based cleanser, then follow with a gentle water-based cleanser.

Step 2: Toner/Essence

This step replenishes hydration and prepares the skin for treatments.

Step 3: Eye Cream

Apply eye cream gently using your ring finger to avoid tugging delicate skin.

Step 4: Treatment Serums (e.g., Retinoids, Hyaluronic Acid)

This is where active ingredients in face serums go to work. Retinoids support collagen, acne control, and skin renewal.² Hyaluronic acid hydrates and reduces irritation from stronger actives.³ 

Step 5: Moisturizer or Night Cream

Finish with a moisturizer or richer night cream to seal everything in and support overnight repair.

A Cheat Sheet For Layering Skincare

Once you’ve identified essential active ingredients and chosen the best products for your skin’s specific needs, remember these key points when layering skincare to get the most out of your products. 

• Layering vitamin C and hyaluronic acid: Always apply vitamin C first on clean skin. Hyaluronic acid can follow to boost hydration and minimize irritation.
• When to use retinoids (and what not to mix them with): Use retinoids at night and avoid layering them with strong exfoliating acids in the same routine. 
• Incorporating exfoliating acids: Chemical exfoliants, like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), should be used one to three times per week. Avoid layering them with retinoids initially. 
• The role of niacinamide in a routine: Niacinamide is one of the most versatile skincare ingredients. It layers well with most actives and helps calm inflammation.⁴ 

Common Skincare Layering Mistakes To Avoid

Avoid these common skincare layering mistakes that can decrease the effectiveness of your products.

• Applying skincare products too quickly: Give each layer 30 to 60 seconds to absorb before applying the next product.
• Mixing incompatible ingredients (e.g., vitamin C and benzoyl peroxide): Vitamin C and benzoyl peroxide can deactivate each other — use them at different times of day. 
• Using too many active ingredients at once: More isn’t better. Overloading actives often leads to irritation and barrier damage. When it comes to skincare, sometimes minimalism is best.
• Applying SPF before your moisturizer: Sunscreen should always be the final step in your morning skincare routine.

Frequently Asked Questions By A Dermatologist

How long should I wait between skincare steps?

Waiting about 30 to 60 seconds is enough for most products. If your skin is prone to irritation, wait a bit longer when using retinoids. 

Can I use face oil before or after moisturizer?

Face oils should typically go after moisturizer to seal in hydration.

Where do prescription topicals fit into my skincare routine order?

Prescription treatments usually go after cleansing and before moisturizer, unless your dermatologist advises otherwise.

Final Tips + Skincare Takeaways

When it comes to skincare, how you use your products matters just as much as what you use. Proper layering allows active ingredients to penetrate effectively, minimizes irritation, and helps you see real results.  

You don’t need every trending product on the shelf. Consistency and correct layering matter more than having a 10-step routine. Start with a solid foundation, introduce actives slowly, and give your skin time to respond. 

If you ever feel unsure when facing a cabinet full of products, come back to this simple rule of thumb: cleanse first, then treat, moisturize, and finish with sun protection (AM only). Mastering this sequence helps your skincare work with your skin, maintaining its health and resilience. When in doubt, consult a dermatologist for personalized guidance. 

References:

1. Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. 
2. Motamedi M, Chehade A, Sanghera R, Grewal P. A Clinician’s Guide to Topical Retinoids. J Cutan Med Surg. 2021;26(1):71. 
3. Bravo B, Correia P, Gonçalves Junior JE, Sant’Anna B, Kerob D. Benefits of topical hyaluronic acid for skin quality and signs of skin aging: From literature review to clinical evidence. Dermatol Ther. 2022;35(12). 
4. Boo YC. Mechanistic Basis and Clinical Evidence for the Applications of Nicotinamide (Niacinamide) to Control Skin Aging and Pigmentation. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021;10(8).