Let’s be real – we spend so much money on our skincare regime, and there’s nothing more heartbreaking than feeling like our skin doesn’t look great after applying everything we own. But something as simple as the order that you apply your skincare products can actually make a huge difference to your skin. It may sound like a lot of work but if you don’t apply your serums and moisturizers in a specific order, the products won’t do the job they’re supposed to, and your skin will be the one to suffer. *insert crying emoji*

The most important thing is to make sure your skin is completely clean BEFORE you apply any hydrating lotions or oils. The general rule is to apply the most lightweight products first so they can be easily absorbed before layering on heavier creams.

I know it can be time-consuming but it’s important to wait a minute or two after applying each skincare layer. This will give your skin time to absorb the product, and that when you’re layering your products they won’t peel – those tiny little balls you get when you’ve used too much product. A good way to maximize your time doing all the steps is to work your skincare into your morning and evening routine, so brush your teeth between steps, give your makeup sponge a wash to give your skin a little extra time to absorb products in between steps.

Step 1: Cleanser

Cleansing should remove any makeup or dirt from your skin while also adding a burst of hydration. use a foam or gel cleanser (or whichever best suits your skin type). Make sure there’s absolutely no makeup or dirt on your skin before you continue the rest of your regime.

Step 2: Toner

Toning is super important as it removes any residue that your cleanser wouldn’t get rid of, plus any minerals or chlorine from your water. It will also instantly tighten your pores and help restore your skin’s pH levels for a more even skin tone.

Step 3: Serum

Serums are lightweight formulas and contain high concentrations of active ingredients. The formula is made up of smaller molecules that are absorbed into the skin at a much deeper level. This makes serums ideal if you’re trying to target a specific skincare issue, like acne, fine lines or dry skin.

Step 4: Eye Cream

Eye creams are great because they can brighten under eyes, reduce puffiness, and add an extra hit of moisture. Depending on the formula it may look like a serum or a thick moisturizer, but now is the time to apply it, as there are fewer ‘barriers’ for it to get through, and it can be absorbed more easily! Apply your eye cream with your fourth finger in a tapping motion, as this is the weakest finger so you won’t tug or pull the delicate skin. We also love to keep our eye cream in the fridge; it’s the ultimate eye wake-up call in the mornings!

Pro Tip: If your eye cream contains retinol, you can apply after your moisturizer, as this will lower the risk of it irritating the skin.

Step 5: Face Cream/Moisturizer

Hydrated skin is glowing skin, so NEVER skip this step! The right moisturizer will hydrate, replenish, restore your skin’s pH levels, and nourish and repair any issues like dry, flaky skin. But make sure you choose one with the right formula and ingredient list for your skin type. If you have dry skin, you need a really rich formula, but if you have acne-prone or oily skin, a gel formula will be your go-to.

Step 6: Facial Oil

Without a doubt one of the most powerful potions on my shelf! The small molecular structure of face oils allows them to penetrate deeper into your skin and hydrate at a much deeper level. They also repair and plump your skin, and feed it with amazing natural vitamins. Oil needs to go last because it will create a protective barrier on your skin and lock in water, if not applied last, it could block your other skincare products from penetrating. If you’re on the oily skin list, we recommend only using your face oil at night.

Step 7: Sunscreen

For daytime, sunscreen is THE most important step, even during the winter months. Applying a good sunscreen every morning will protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays. An SPF will sit on the surface of your skin acting as a protective barrier against the sun, so you should always apply it last.

From this point on you’re officially ready to start applying your makeup!