how-to
The right order for a 4-step routine
3 min· Written by chemists
Cleanser, toner, serum, cream. There is a reason it goes in that order, and one common swap that undoes the whole routine.
Thinnest to thickest
Water-based products penetrate faster and should go first. Oils and creams form a seal on top; anything applied over them barely gets in. The order is: cleanser, water-based toner, water-based serum, cream or oil last.
AM vs PM
Actives that increase sun sensitivity (AHAs, retinoids) go PM. Antioxidants (Vitamin C, Niacinamide) work well AM. Sunscreen is the last step of every morning routine.
The common swap that ruins it
Applying cream before serum. It happens when the cream feels lighter than the serum. Look at the ingredient list, not the finger-feel: if the first ingredient is water and the texture is a lotion or gel, it goes before the cream.
Ingredients mentioned