The exact order in which to apply skin care products

The Sephora sale has been more successful than expected, with many new items (open in new tab) added to the medicine chest. But before you dive into your loot, you need to figure out how to work them into your routine. (Opens in a new tab) If you're wondering what order you should apply your skincare in, you're not alone. "One of the reasons applying products can be so confusing is that different skin care brands can have their own philosophies about how to care for your skin, so they recommend a variety of different routines," says celebrity esthetician René Rouleau ( (Open in new tab).

But as a general rule, after cleansing, the product should be applied according to the size of the molecules it contains - from the smallest molecule to the largest, which is usually the thinnest to the thickest formulation.

"Smaller molecules, such as water-based lotions and serums, have the ability to pass through membranes and enter the skin the farthest," says Rouleau.

"Larger molecular products, such as pure treatment oils, are not as effective, but serve the purpose of protecting the skin from external stresses and acting as a sealant or proper protection to allow everything applied underneath to penetrate."

If you still need clarification, read the complete application breakdown.

"Cleansing removes dirt, debris, makeup, oil, and impurities from the skin, leaving it clean so that subsequent products can work most effectively," says Rouleau. So cleansing is necessary if you want to deliver nutrients and active ingredients to the skin in the most effective way." It's about making every drop of precious skincare more effective.

"Morning care is always quick and easy. Especially after cleansing, you only have a minute to apply lotion before the moisture evaporates," she says.

Essence, a luxurious "water" that acts like a toner, can actually enhance the effectiveness of the rest of your routine. Says Rouleau, "You can leave it damp on the skin before you apply your serum or moisturizer." 'Applying a serum or moisturizer right after that allows the active ingredients in those products to penetrate more deeply.'

Here, you can really personalize your routine to cater to your skin's specific needs. "These products come in gel or light lotion form and contain a high concentration of active ingredients. It is best used when your skin is in a rut or when you are looking for better results. Simply put, if you want to up the ante, a serum is the way to go," says Rouleau.

Most formulas in this category are about the same "weight," so they can usually be layered together before sealing with a moisturizer.

"The skin's moisture barrier needs to be intact, and this can be done by using the right moisturizer for your skin type every day," says Rouleau; SPF can be used later in the routine, but Rouleau suggests finding a formula that covers both bases.

"By far, SPF is the best product to prevent signs of premature aging; a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher should be applied 365 days a year, rain or shine, indoors or out. The problem with adding a separate SPF to your morning routine is that the moisturizing cream may coat the skin cells and prevent the sunscreen from working effectively."

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These luscious formulas should be the grand finale of your routine. Says Rouleau, "With regular use, they can dramatically repair damaged moisture barriers (the root cause of dryness and sensitivity) and return skin to a healthier state."

"Facial oils are not ideal to use in the morning so as not to interfere with the daytime protection provided by sunscreen. Skin oil in its pure state may dissolve sunscreen throughout the day.

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