What Order Should I Follow for My Skin Care Routine?

It’s usually best to arrange your skin care steps by cleansing first, then toning or exfoliating, and finishing with products from the lightest to the heaviest. This approach helps active ingredients reach deeper layers of the skin.

The sequence in which you apply skin care matters, whether you prefer a straightforward three-step morning routine or have time for a comprehensive 10-step evening ritual.

Why does order matter? There’s little point in maintaining a routine if the products can’t properly penetrate your skin.

Continue reading to learn about optimal layering for maximum benefits, which steps are optional, product suggestions, and more.

Quick guide

What should I use in the morning?

Morning skin care is primarily about prevention and protection. Because your face will encounter environmental stressors throughout the day, key steps include moisturizing and applying sunscreen.

Step 1: Oil-based cleanser

• What is it? Cleansers generally fall into water- and oil-based types. Oil-based formulas dissolve the natural oils your skin produces.
• How to use it: Some oil cleansers are formulated for application to wet skin, others to dry skin—follow the product directions. Use a small amount, massage gently, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel.
• Skip this step if: Your cleanser is purely oil without surfactants and emulsifiers, or if you have combination to oily skin. Oil cleansers can potentially increase surface oiliness.
• Be sure to: Perform a patch test on a small area for several days to observe how your skin reacts. If you’re prone to cystic acne, consult a dermatologist before switching to an oil-based cleanser.
• Pros: Oil cleansers can remove waterproof makeup and unclog pores. Some evidence indicates they may remove water-resistant sunscreen more effectively than other methods.
• Cons: Anecdotal reports mention an initial 1–2 week “purging” phase when breakouts may occur as built-up oils are cleansed.

Step 2: Water-based cleanser

• What is it? These cleansers mainly contain surfactants that allow water to rinse away sweat, dirt, and the oils lifted by an oil-based cleanser.
• How to use it: Apply to wet skin, massage, then rinse and dry.
• Skip this step if: You don’t want to double cleanse or your oil-based cleanser already contains surfactants that remove residue effectively.
• Be sure to: Choose a cleanser with a neutral pH, as this may be less irritating for many skin types.
• Pros: Gentle water-based cleansers can help prevent breakouts for acne-prone or oily skin.
• Cons: Stronger surfactants can strip moisture and harm your skin’s natural barrier.

Step 3: Toner or astringent

• What is it? Toners add hydration and sweep away any leftover dead skin cells or grime after cleansing. Astringents are alcohol-based and help remove surplus oil.
• How to use it: Immediately after cleansing, either tap the toner onto skin or apply it with a cotton pad and sweep outward across the face.
• Skip the astringent if: You have dry skin.
• Be sure to: Avoid toners that are high in alcohol content, as they can be irritating.
• Pros: Toners and astringents can minimize the look of pores and clear remaining impurities.
• Cons: Excessive use of alcohol-based products may lead to irritation.

Read about the best toners for your skin type.

Step 4: Antioxidant serum

• What is it? Serums are concentrated treatments. Antioxidant serums protect skin from damage caused by free radicals. Common antioxidants include vitamins C and E; others to consider are green tea, resveratrol, and caffeine.
• How to use it: Pat a few drops onto your face and neck.
• Be sure to: Patch-test new serums on a small area to check compatibility with your skin and other products.
• Pros: Antioxidant serums can help reduce redness, fine lines, and environmental skin damage.
• Cons: Some serums—particularly those containing acids—may irritate when used with other acidic products.

Learn which vitamin C serums offer the most benefit.

Step 5: Spot treatment

• What is it? For blemishes with heads, start with an anti-inflammatory product then use a drying spot treatment to finish. Bumps under the skin are cysts and need treatments that target internal infection.
• How to use it: Use a damp cotton swab to clear any product from the spot first, then apply a small amount and let it dry.
• Skip this step if: You don’t have any spots or prefer to let them resolve naturally.
• Be sure to: Don’t put spot treatments on open wounds.
• Pros: Acne treatments can ease inflammation, redness, and soreness.
• Cons: Stronger formulations may cause skin reactions. Introduce new products slowly and watch for changes.

Discover products recommended for treating acne.

Step 6: Eye cream

• What is it? The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate, prone to fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles. A suitable eye cream can brighten and firm this area, though it won’t fully erase every concern.
• How to use it: Dab a tiny amount around the eye using your ring finger.
• Skip this step if: Your moisturizer and serum are safe and effective for the eye area and are fragrance-free.
• Be sure to: Use only a small quantity and cleanse thoroughly—product buildup around the eyes can clog pores.
• Pros: Eye creams formulated for this delicate skin can reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and discoloration.
• Cons: If eye cream gets into your eye, it can sting and irritate.

Find out which eye creams deliver the best results.

Step 7: Lighter face oil

• What is it? Lighter, fast-absorbing oils should be applied before heavier creams. They’re useful when skin is dry, flaky, or dehydrated.
• How to use it: Dispense a few drops on your fingertips, rub gently to warm the oil, then lightly pat onto your face.
• Skip this step if: You prefer a simpler maintenance routine. You may need to experiment to find the oil that suits your skin.
• Be sure to: Allow oils to absorb before applying sunscreen; some oils can interfere with sunscreen efficacy.
• Pros: Face oils help lock in moisture and keep skin supple.
• Cons: Oils can trigger breakouts in oily or acne-prone skin.

Step 8: Moisturizer

• What is it? Moisturizers hydrate and soften skin. Choose a cream or balm for dry skin; thicker creams suit normal or combination skin, while lightweight gels and fluids are better for oily types. Ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, antioxidants, and peptides are beneficial.
• How to use it: Warm a pea-size to slightly larger amount in your hands and apply using upward strokes, starting on the cheeks, then across the rest of the face.
• Skip this step if: Your toner or serum provides sufficient hydration—this may be true for some with oily skin.
• Be sure to: Apply moisturizer with clean hands, especially if using a jar; contaminated fingers can introduce bacteria.
• Pros: Regular moisturizing supports the skin barrier and can help prevent various issues.
• Cons: Using an overly heavy moisturizer without proper cleansing can lead to milia—small white bumps.

Read our picks for facial moisturizers suited to sensitive skin.

Step 9: Heavier face oil

• What is it? Thick or slow-absorbing oils are categorized as heavier. They work well for dry skin and should be applied after moisturizer to seal in hydration.
• How to use it: Apply similarly to lighter oils—warm a few drops in your hands and pat onto the skin.
• Skip this step if: Heavy oils tend to clog your pores. It often takes some trial and error to find what works.
• Be sure to: Fully cleanse your face in the morning, as heavier oils can contribute to pore congestion overnight.
• Pros: These oils help lock in moisture and enhance the effects of prior moisturizing steps.
• Cons: Heavier oils may provoke breakouts in acne-prone complexions.

Step 10: Sunscreen

• What is it? Sunscreen is an essential finishing step in your morning routine. It blocks harmful UV radiation, lowering skin cancer risk and slowing visible aging. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher to protect against UVA and UVB.
• How to use it: Apply liberally over your face and massage in, ideally 15–30 minutes before sun exposure. Avoid layering other skin care on top, as this can dilute the sunscreen’s protection.
• Be sure to: Reapply sunscreen every two hours while outdoors.
• Pros: Using sunscreen and sun-safe behaviors, such as wearing hats and seeking shade, reduces your risk of skin cancer.
• Cons: Some formulas can cause skin reactions—patch-test first. Certain ingredients may harm marine life, so check labels before swimming in the ocean.

Discover the best sunscreens for all skin types.

Step 11: Foundation or other base makeup

• What is it? If you wear makeup, a base creates an even canvas. Options include cream, liquid, or powder foundations, tinted moisturizers, or BB creams.
• How to use it: Apply with a brush or sponge, starting at the center of the face and blending outward. A damp sponge helps blur edges for a seamless finish.
• Skip this step if: You prefer a natural, makeup-free look.
• Be sure to: Check expiration dates—many foundations last 6–12 months after opening.
• Pros: Foundations conceal blemishes and even out skin tone.
• Cons: Makeup can contribute to breakouts in some individuals.

What should I use at night?

Nighttime routines focus on repairing daytime damage with richer treatments. This is also when to use products that increase sun sensitivity, such as chemical peels and some exfoliants.

Step 1: Oil-based makeup remover

• What is it? Oil-based removers dissolve natural oils and break down makeup that’s oil-based.
• How to use it: Follow product-specific directions; some call for application to wet skin, others to dry. Massage until clean and rinse away.
• Skip this step if: You don’t wear makeup, have oily skin, or prefer a water-based option.
• Be sure to: Read the label—some oil removers advise following with a second cleanser or micellar water to remove residue.
• Pros: These removers help clear makeup and impurities effectively.
• Cons: Failing to remove excess oil can clog pores.

Learn how to make a DIY makeup remover.

Step 2: Water-based cleanser

• What is it? Water-based cleansers react with makeup and dirt to rinse them from the skin.
• How to use it: Apply to wet skin, massage gently, and rinse.
• Skip this step if: You don’t want to double cleanse.
• Be sure to: Choose a gentle, pH-balanced formula to protect the skin barrier and avoid scrubbing too hard.
• Pros: Double cleansing can remove residue left by oil-based removers.
• Cons: Some formulas may dry the skin; if irritation occurs, switch products.

Step 3: Exfoliator or clay mask

• What is it? Exfoliators slough off dead skin cells and help clear pores. Clay masks help absorb excess oil and unclog pores. These treatments are ideal at night to remove buildup and prepare skin for deeper-acting products.
• How to use it: Follow each product’s instructions. Use clay masks once or twice weekly, either all over or on targeted areas. Rinse with warm water and pat dry after the recommended time.
• Skip exfoliating if: Your skin is already inflamed or irritated.
• Be sure to: Avoid overusing physical or chemical exfoliants, especially on sensitive skin. Discontinue use if irritation appears. Exfoliants can increase sun sensitivity, so use sunscreen the following day.
• Pros: Exfoliation removes dead surface cells; some chemical exfoliants can clear deeper impurities and help prevent breakouts.
• Cons: Rough physical scrubs (e.g., coarse sugar or salt) may damage sensitive skin. Stop using any product that causes irritation and choose gentler alternatives once skin heals.

Step 4: Hydrating mist or toner

• What is it? A hydrating mist or toner concludes your evening cleansing. Seek humectants like lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin to boost moisture.
• How to use it: Mist over the face or apply toner with a cotton pad and sweep across the skin.
• Be sure to: Avoid toners with high alcohol levels, which can impair the skin barrier and cause irritation.
• Pros: Toners can remove remaining residue and help restore pH balance.
• Cons: Alcohol-heavy formulas may be irritating for sensitive skin.

Find the best toners for oily skin.

Step 5: Acid treatment

• What is it? Acid treatments promote cell turnover. Beginners often try glycolic acid; salicylic acid addresses acne, and hyaluronic acid hydrates. Over time, these can brighten and even skin tone.
• How to use it: Begin once a week and build to nightly use if tolerated. Patch-test at least 24 hours before first application. Apply a few drops to a cotton pad and sweep across the face, avoiding the eye area.
• Skip this step if: You have very sensitive skin or react to a given acid.
• Be sure to: Select an acid treatment suited to your skin’s concerns.
• Pros: Research indicates acids can reduce fine lines, scars, acne, and even skin tone.
• Cons: Acids increase sun sensitivity, so apply sunscreen the next day.

Step 6: Serums and essences

• What is it? Serums deliver potent actives; essences are thinner versions. Vitamin E aids dry skin, antioxidants like green tea can brighten dull complexions, and retinol or vitamin C can help acne-prone skin.
• How to use it: Patch-test new formulas 24 hours before full use. Press a small amount into skin. You can layer multiple products—apply water-based ones before oil-based ones and wait about 30 seconds between layers.
• Be sure to: Pick serums that address your goals: anti-aging, hydration, brightening, or blemish treatment.
• Pros: Serums are highly concentrated and penetrate well, providing targeted benefits.
• Cons: Some serums are costly, but lower-cost options often exist; a little product usually goes a long way.

Step 7: Spot treatment

• What is it? Anti-inflammatory products target blemishes with heads; follow with drying spot treatments. Products that visibly dry spots can be effective overnight.
• How to use it: Apply to clean skin and let dry.
• Skip this step if: You have no active spots.
• Be sure to: Don’t pick or pop pimples—this can cause scarring and spread bacteria. If blemishes persist after 4–6 weeks, seek a dermatologist’s advice.
• Pros: Spot treatments can produce rapid improvements, sometimes overnight.
• Cons: They may cause peeling, redness, or irritation, particularly on sensitive skin.

Step 8: Hydrating serum or mask

• What is it? Hydrating serums deliver moisture without clogging pores.
• How to use it: These may come as serums, thick masks, or overnight treatments—apply last if left on overnight and follow package directions.
• Be sure to: Refrigerating sheet masks can offer extra anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Pros: Masks keep active, hydrating ingredients close to skin and can help absorb excess oil.
• Cons: Test masks on a small area first—ingredients may irritate some skin types.

Learn the best masks for your skin type.

Step 9: Eye cream

• What is it? A richer night eye cream can address tiredness and fine lines; look for peptide-rich, antioxidant formulations.
• How to use it: Apply a small amount and gently pat into the eye area.
• Skip this step if: Your moisturizer or serum is safe and effective under the eyes.
• Be sure to: Apply with clean hands or an applicator and pat rather than rub to avoid stretching delicate skin.
• Pros: Overnight application allows deeper penetration; some formulas may boost collagen and slow aging signs.
• Cons: Specialized eye creams can be pricey, though budget-friendly options exist.

Find which eye creams are best for under-eye circles.

Step 10: Face oil

• What is it? Night oils are ideal for dry or dehydrated skin; evening is a good time for thicker oils that might look too shiny during the day.
• How to use it: Pat a few drops into skin and avoid layering other products on top for best results.
• Be sure to: Cleanse fully the next morning to remove heavier residues.
• Pros: Oils can interfere with sunscreen by day, so night use may be preferable for certain formulas.
• Cons: Heavy oils may not suit oily or acne-prone skin—find what works for you.

Step 11: Night cream or sleep mask

• What is it? Night creams aren’t mandatory but can be beneficial: they support repair, while sleep masks lock in previous layers and often contain gentle hydrating actives safe for overnight use.
• How to use it: Warm a small amount in your hands and spread evenly across your face.
• Skip this step if: Your skin already looks and feels healthy.
• Be sure to: Try a small test patch before leaving a heavier product on overnight.
• Pros: Night creams and masks allow ingredients time to penetrate the skin barrier deeply.
• Cons: Some dislike sleeping with heavier products; if so, choose a lighter formula.

Frequently asked questions

What routine should I follow for dry skin?

If your skin tends to be dry, prioritize hydration and rebuilding the skin barrier. Use the steps outlined above but substitute harsher or acidic products with options that boost and help retain moisture.

What is a basic skin care routine?

A basic routine includes fewer steps but still keeps skin clean and cared for. Depending on your needs and time, it usually involves makeup removal, cleansing, spot treatment for blemishes, daytime sunscreen, and nighttime moisturizing.

At what age should you start a skin care routine?

It’s never too early or too late to begin caring for your skin. Even children can adopt simple habits like washing their face in the morning and evening and using sunscreen during the day.

Choose products and steps suitable for your age and concerns. Teenagers may need acne-focused regimens, while adults might prioritize anti-aging support. Build a routine that fits your individual needs.

The bottom line

You don’t have to follow a 10-step routine if it feels overwhelming.

A helpful guideline is to layer products from thinnest to thickest, regardless of how many steps you include.

Most importantly, find a routine you enjoy and will maintain—whether it’s the full regimen or a pared-down version—and have fun experimenting to discover what suits your skin best.