When it comes to skincare, the order in which you apply your products can make all the difference. Whether you’re in the morning, getting ready to face the day, or in the evening, preparing for a restful night, following the right sequence ensures your skin gets the full benefit of each product. While it might seem like applying products is a simple task, the way they interact with each other can significantly impact their effectiveness. Let’s break down the best order for applying your skincare, both in the AM and PM, so your skin stays healthy and glowing all day long.

AM Skincare Routine: Start Your Day Right

1. Cleanser
   The first step in any skincare routine is always cleansing. In the morning, a gentle cleanser helps to remove any residual oils or impurities left on your skin from overnight. This step sets the foundation for the products that follow and ensures they work to their full potential.
2. Toner
   While optional, a toner can help balance your skin’s pH, remove any leftover dirt, and prep your skin for better absorption of subsequent products. Choose one suited to your skin type—hydrating for dry skin or an exfoliating one for oily or acne-prone skin.
3. Serum
   Serums are packed with concentrated active ingredients, such as vitamin C, which helps brighten and protect your skin from environmental damage. Apply a serum that addresses your specific skin concerns, whether it’s hydration, anti-aging, or brightening.
4. Eye Cream
   If you use an eye cream, apply it next. The skin around your eyes is delicate, and an eye cream can help with puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Gently tap it around the eye area using your ring finger for a light touch.
5. Moisturizer
   Even if you have oily skin, a lightweight moisturizer is crucial. This step helps lock in hydration and ensures that your skin stays soft and supple throughout the day. Choose a formula that suits your skin type, whether it’s gel-based, cream-based, or oil-free.
6. Sunscreen
   The most important step in your AM routine is sunscreen. Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 (or higher) to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Sunscreen should be the last step in your morning routine to shield your skin from sun damage.

PM Skincare Routine: Wind Down & Repair

1. Cleanser
   Just like in the morning, cleansing your skin at night is essential. After a long day, you want to remove makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and pollutants that have accumulated on your skin. A double cleanse, starting with an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one, can be incredibly effective at thoroughly removing everything.
2. Exfoliant (2-3 times a week)
   Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and can improve skin texture and radiance. However, you don’t need to do this every night—two to three times a week is sufficient, depending on your skin type. Be sure to use a gentle exfoliator to avoid irritation.
3. Toner
   Toning at night serves the same purpose as in the morning: it balances the skin and helps prep it for better absorption of the next products. If you’ve exfoliated, a soothing toner can help calm and hydrate your skin.
4. Serum
   In the evening, you may opt for a different serum than you used in the morning, such as one with retinol, hyaluronic acid, or peptides. These ingredients work best at night when your skin is in repair mode.
5. Eye Cream
   If you use an eye cream, this is the perfect time to apply it. The evening allows for prolonged absorption, helping to target concerns like puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
6. Moisturizer
   Nighttime is when your skin does a lot of its healing and regeneration, so applying a richer moisturizer can help support this process. Choose a nourishing moisturizer that deeply hydrates your skin and helps lock in moisture overnight.

Wrapping It Up

Your skincare routine can be the key to maintaining healthy, glowing skin, but the order in which you apply your products plays a huge role in how effective they are. By following a structured sequence in both your AM and PM routines, you ensure that your skin receives maximum benefits. Remember, consistency is key—stick with your routine, and over time, you’ll see visible improvements in your skin’s texture, hydration, and overall appearance. Whether you’re prepping for a busy day ahead or unwinding after a long one, the right skincare order will help you feel confident and refreshed, no matter the time of day.