The right order to apply skincare
The Best Routine for Glowing Skin


Are You Applying Your Skincare in the Right Order? (Most People Get This Wrong!)

Did you know that applying your skincare in the wrong order can make your products less effective? If you’ve ever felt like your routine isn’t working as well as it should, this might be why!Here’s the exact order to follow for maximum absorption, better results, and glowing skin.


The Correct Skincare Order (Step-by-Step)

 

1. Cleanser (Start with a Fresh Face)

2. Toner (Preps & Balances Your Skin)

  • Toner helps restore your skin’s pH and preps it to absorb serums and moisturizers more effectively. Look for alcohol-free formulas that hydrate instead of stripping your skin.

    We love Thayers Alcohol Free Toner.


3. Vitamin C Serum (AM Only - Brightening & Protecting)

  • Vitamin C is a powerhouse antioxidant that brightens skin, evens tone, and protects against environmental stressors. Apply it directly onto clean skin so it can work its magic!

    We love Mivida Vitamin C Serum.


4. Serum (Hydration + Active Ingredients)

  • Serums deliver concentrated nutrients to your skin. Hydration-focused formulas with jojoba and castor oils help lock in moisture while nourishing your skin. I swear by my go-to serum for this step—it absorbs beautifully and doesn’t leave a greasy feel.
    We love and we created Vielle Serum.

5. Moisturizer or Beef Tallow (Locks in Hydration)

  • Your skin needs a protective layer to seal in hydration. A lightweight moisturizer (or nourishing tallow) acts as a barrier, keeping skin soft and plump all day.

    We love Terra Lotus.


6. Sunscreen (AM Only - Always the Last Step Before Makeup)

  • If you wear SPF under your moisturizer, it can get diluted and won’t protect your skin as well. Always apply sunscreen as your last skincare step before makeup.

    We love DIME Wonderscreen.


7. Primer & Makeup (If Wearing Makeup)

  • Once your skincare is locked in, a primer helps smooth your skin and create a perfect base for foundation or tinted moisturizer.



Pro Tip: Warm up your serum between your hands before applying—it helps with absorption and makes your products last longer!


Common Skincare Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying sunscreen before moisturizer → Sunscreen should always be your last step in the AM.

  • Skipping serum because of oily skin → Hydration balances oil, not makes it worse!

  • Not letting products absorb → Give each layer a few seconds before applying the next.



Recommended Skincare Tools


Reusable Face Cloths – A gentle way to cleanse your skin and remove makeup.
We love these.

Facial Roller or Gua Sha – Boost circulation and help your skincare absorb better.
We love these.


This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

I created Vielle because I needed a skincare product that actually nourished my skin without chemicals. If you’re looking for a simple, effective serum, check out the formula here.

XOXO,
Michelle

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