The correct order of your skincare routine: explained step by step
The correct order of your skincare routine
Many people invest in good skincare products, but forget that the order in which you use them is just as important. When you apply your products in the right order, your routine will work more effectively and you will get the most out of each ingredient.
In this article we explain step by step how to build a good skincare routine. We make a distinction between the morning and evening routine and give practical tips to apply them easily, even if you are just starting out.
Morning routine: protect and hydrate
1. Cleanser
Start your day with a gentle cleanser to remove sebum, sweat and residue from night products. A gel cleanser is suitable for oily skin, while a milk or balm cleanser works better for dry skin.
2. Toner (optional)
A toner helps restore your skin’s pH and prepares it for the rest of your routine. While not essential, it can be a valuable addition for those with sensitive or dehydrated skin.
3. Serum
Serums contain powerful active ingredients, such as vitamin C or hyaluronic acid. Always apply these before your day cream, so that they can be optimally absorbed.
4. Day cream (moisturizer)
This step provides hydration and forms a protective layer on your skin. Choose a formula that suits your skin type.
5. Sunscreen (SPF)
The most important step in your morning routine. SPF protects your skin from UV damage and premature aging. Use a separate face SPF daily, even on cloudy days.
Evening Routine: Cleanse and Restore
1. Double cleanse
First, remove makeup and SPF with an oil or balm cleanser. Then, use a water-based cleanser to deep cleanse your skin. This method prevents clogged pores and provides a fresh, clean base.
2. Exfoliant (2 to 3 times a week)
An exfoliant with AHA (like glycolic acid) or BHA (like salicylic acid) will remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. Don't use this daily and don't combine it with retinol on the same night.
3. Treatment serum
In the evening, your skin is extra receptive to active ingredients such as retinol, niacinamide or peptides. Choose the serum based on your skin needs.
4. Night cream or nourishing moisturizer
Use a richer cream to support the skin during the night to recover. Ingredients such as ceramides or squalane help with this.
5. Eye cream (optional)
A separate eye cream can help reduce puffiness or dry lines. Apply this gently with your ring finger.
The golden rule: from thin to thick
An easy way to remember the correct order is to apply products from thinner to thicker textures. This allows the lightweight formulas to sink in before you finish with a sealant or SPF.
Build an affordable skincare routine through Rooby
A good skincare routine doesn't have to be a drain on your budget. At Rooby you can buy overstock skincare from top brands with big discounts. This way you make sustainable choices without compromising on quality or results.
Check out our current range of cleansers, serums, moisturizers and sunscreens. Or discover our curated skincare kits for every skin type.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skincare Sequence
What is the correct order of skincare products?
Morning: cleanser, toner (optional), serum, day cream, SPF.
Evening: double cleansing, exfoliant (a few times a week), serum, night cream.
When do you use an exfoliant?
Two to three times a week, in the evening after cleansing and before your serum or cream.
Should SPF come before or after day cream?
Always after your day cream. SPF is the last step of your morning routine.
Do I need to use a separate eye cream?
It's not a must, but it may provide benefits for specific skin concerns around the eyes.
At Rooby you can shop your entire routine up to 75% off. View our full range here !
Of course we are happy to help you if you have any further questions. Send us a message at info@rooby.nl.