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Layering order: thinnest to thickest
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Reading time: 5 minutes
If you remember one rule, make it this: apply products from the thinnest texture to the thickest. Watery layers go first so they can reach the skin. Richer layers go on top to hold them in.
A full evening, in order
| Step | Product type | Texture | Sera example |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oil or balm cleanser | Oil, balm | Oat Milk Balm Cleanser |
| 2 | Water-based cleanser | Gel | Cloud Gel Cleanser |
| 3 | Toner or essence | Watery | Rice Water Essence |
| 4 | Serum | Light fluid | Niacinamide 10 Serum |
| 5 | Eye cream | Cream | Peptide Eye Cream |
| 6 | Moisturizer | Cream | Barrier Cream |
| 7 | Face oil | Oil | Squalane Face Oil |
You do not need every step. Skip any that your skin does not ask for and keep the order of the rest.
Three exceptions
- Sunscreen is always last in the morning, even after a face oil, because nothing should dilute it.
- Retinal goes on dry skin, so wait a few minutes after essence before applying it.
- A face oil goes before your cream if you have oily skin and just want a trace of it.
How long to wait between layers
| Product | Wait before the next layer |
|---|---|
| Most products | Until the layer no longer feels wet, about 30 seconds |
| Retinal | Apply on completely dry skin |
| Sunscreen | About a minute to set before makeup |
When in doubt, use fewer layers. A cleanser, one serum, a moisturizer and SPF is a complete routine.
A minimal morning
- Cloud Gel Cleanser
- One serum, such as Vitamin C 15 Serum
- Daily Gel Cream
- Daily Sheer Fluid SPF 50
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell which product is thinner?
Put a drop of each on the back of your hand. The one that spreads and sinks in fastest goes first.
Can I mix two serums in my palm?
It is simpler to apply them one at a time, thinnest first. That way each one goes on evenly.
Where does a sheet or overnight mask go?
An overnight mask goes last at night, in place of or over your moisturizer.
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