The order you apply products affects how well they absorb and work. The rule of thumb is thinnest to thickest, water-based before oil-based — with a couple of important exceptions.
A reliable order
- Cleanser
- Toner / essence (optional, hydrating)
- Serums & treatments (your actives — vitamin C, niacinamide, etc.)
- Eye cream
- Moisturiser
- Face oil (if you use one — it goes after moisturiser, since oils seal)
- Sunscreen — always the last step of your morning routine
The exceptions worth knowing
- Sunscreen is non-negotiable and always last in the AM. Nothing should go over it (except makeup).
- Heavier treatments can buffer. If a retinoid irritates you, applying moisturiser first ("buffering") slows absorption and improves tolerance.
- Skip sunscreen at night — it does nothing while you sleep.
Build it visually
Getting the order right is easier when you can see the steps laid out. regimen's routine builder arranges your AM and PM steps, suggests the right sequence, and flags layering issues — so you don't have to second-guess. New to this? Start with our guide on building a routine from scratch.