The correct order to apply your skincare routine, as per four skincare experts
Forget excessive, multiple-step routines; experts say this is the streamlined step-by-step regime to follow
We've found ourselves in an era where multiple-step skincare routines are normalised, most likely at the hands of social media and its hyped 'trending' culture. While it might work for some, the skin experts have weighed in with their advice, and the unanimous answer is: streamline.
From billboards and adverts on the train to sponsored videos on our Instagram feed, we're frequently sold beauty products, from the best face moisturisers to the best hyaluronic acid serums – all of which can often feel quite overwhelming. Not to mention, confusing as to what each product is, what it does, and when to use it. So, we quizzed skin experts to cut through the noise with a streamlined routine that we should actually follow.
As Teresa O'Nwere-Tan, aesthetic nurse and founder of Tan & Co, notes: "The biggest misconception about skincare is that you need multiple products to achieve healthy skin. Good skincare isn't about how many products you use, but understanding what your skin actually needs. Keep your routine simple, targeted, and consistent."
1. Cleanse
Designed to clean the surface of the skin of dirt, oil, makeup, sweat, and daily pollutants, a cleanser is the essential first step in the skincare routine of many. As Teresa O'Nwere-Tan, aesthetic nurse and founder of Tan & Co, advises: "In the morning, I recommend a gentle cleanser."
That said, consultant dermatologist Dr Magnus Lynch says this can be an optional step in the morning and save it for your evening routine instead. "In the morning, washing with water is sufficient for many people. Cleansing is particularly important in the evening to remove sunscreen and makeup, which can block pores," Dr Lynch notes.
Enriched with moisturising ingredients, this Cetaphil cleanser effectively cleans dirt, makeup and impurities from the skin, while still preserving the natural moisture barrier. It also helps defend the skin against five signs of sensitivity, such as dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness and a weakened skin barrier. The result? A cleansed complexion that feels soft, soothed and smooth.
2. Serums
If in doubt about the order of your skincare routine, Dr Lynch has some helpful advice: "My rule of thumb is to apply skincare products from thinnest to thickest, starting with lightweight serums such as vitamin C, followed by hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, and then other actives such as niacinamide to support the skin barrier."
Confused between serum and oils? O'Nwere-Tan assures us that we don't need both: "Serums are generally formulated to deliver specific ingredients, such as vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or peptides. Face oils, on the other hand, primarily help soften the skin and reduce moisture loss."
"If you're using both, I would generally recommend applying your serum first, followed by moisturiser and then your face oil. This allows the serum to be applied directly to the skin, while the oil helps seal in moisture," explains O'Nwere-Tan. While oils are ideal for those with dry skin, the skin expert adds, "If your skin is already well hydrated and you're using a good moisturiser, you may not need one at all."
Equipped with four forms of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, this serum delivers both immediate and long-lasting moisture to plump fine lines, restore firmness and boost elasticity.
This brightening K-beauty serum is enriched with naturally derived vitamin C sources (sea buckthorn water), which is known for supporting collagen production, improving moisture and nourishing the skin barrier. It's also infused with tranexamic acid and niacinamide which target an uneven skin tone for brighter, glowier skin.
If excess oil, uneven texture, and visible pores are some of your main skin concerns, look no further than The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum. This multitasking formula encourages smoother, clearer, and more radiant skin with every application.
3. Moisturiser
As many of us already know, consultant dermatologist Dr Sidra Khan stresses the importance of using moisturiser in our routine. "A moisturiser is one of the few non-negotiables in any routine, because its job is to support and reinforce the skin barrier, the layer that keeps water in and irritants out, and when that barrier is working well, skin looks plumper, calmer and more even."
In terms of application, the consultant dermatologist advises: "Apply it twice a day, morning and night, ideally onto slightly damp skin straight after cleansing or your serums, as that helps trap water in rather than letting it evaporate, and in the morning it also sits neatly under your sunscreen."
If you're wondering how to choose the right formula for you, Dr Khan recommends letting your skin type guide you, rather than the marketing you see. "If your skin is dry, look for richer formulas with ceramides, glycerin and humectants like hyaluronic acid to draw in and seal moisture; if it's oily or acne-prone, a lighter, non-comedogenic gel-cream with niacinamide tends to hydrate without feeling heavy; and if you're sensitive, keep it simple and fragrance-free with barrier-supporting ingredients such as ceramides and panthenol," says Dr Khan.
This rich facial treatment boasts a soothing formula, equipped with BYOMA's Barrier Lipid Complex, avocado oil, ectoin and squalane, that works to repair and rebuild the skin barrier by delivering deep, targeted hydration. Not to mention, it instantly relieves the complexion, calming redness and inflammation.
4. Sunscreen
Exclusive to your morning skincare routine, sunscreen is a key step in your application process each and every day – no matter the season or weather forecast. Dr Lynch stresses: "In the morning, the most important thing is to apply sunscreen. Sunscreen should always be applied last, prior to application of makeup."
Dr Richard Devine, Aesthetic doctor and founder of Devine Clinic, agrees: "I recommend wearing it all year round, not just when it's sunny or when you're going on holiday. It's also important to apply enough; I recommend a broad-spectrum SPF 50, particularly for anyone concerned about pigmentation or premature ageing."
A favourite of the K-beauty world, Beauty of Joseon's Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics sunscreen has a lightweight, non-greasy formula. Especially ideal for dry and sensitive skin types, this SPF 50+ sunscreen leaves the skin feeling hydrated, nourished and protected from harmful UV rays. It also quickly absorbs into the skin, without leaving behind a greasy residue.
What skincare products should be used at night?
To rinse away the day's dirt, grime, and makeup, O'Nwere-Tan advises: "In the evening, cleanse thoroughly, double cleansing if necessary, followed by your serum or treatment product and moisturiser."
Additionally, Dr Lynch recommends only applying the best retinol creams in the evening: "Retinol and retinoids are best used at night, usually after a light moisturiser. I would avoid using retinol or retinoid at the same time as other skin acids, particularly if you have sensitive skin, as these can cause irritation."
Speaking of stronger exfoliating acids, Dr Devine also recommends: "using stronger exfoliating acids, such as glycolic acid, in the evening. These can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so consistent sunscreen use is particularly important."
What skincare ingredients should I be using?
When it comes to any skincare products, it's wise to be clued up on the ingredients list, knowing what they do and what skin type they are designed for in order to prevent any damage from occurring.
It's best to pick your active ingredients based on your skin concerns. As O'Nwere-Tan advises: "For signs of ageing, retinoids have strong evidence for improving fine lines and skin texture, while peptides may offer additional benefits. For pigmentation or melasma, ingredients such as azelaic acid, alpha-arbutin, kojic acid and liquorice root extract can help improve uneven skin tone."
Alternatively, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, O'Nwere-Tan suggests: "Salicylic acid can help unclog pores and reduce congestion, while benzoyl peroxide targets inflammatory acne."
Meet the expert panel
Dr Magnus Lynch is a Consultant Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon at St John's Institute of Dermatology. Dr Lynch specialises in the treatment of complex skin cancer, acne scarring, Mohs micrographic surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, and general dermatology.
Dr Sidra Khan is a medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatologist based in Glasgow. The dermatologist is a member of the British Association of Dermatologists, British Cosmetic Dermatology Group, European Society for Laser Dermatology and the British Medical Laser Association. Dr Khan specialises in medical dermatology, skin check, minor surgery and skin rejuvenation; however, also has interests in skin of colour, lasers and skin ageing.
Teresa O'Nwere-Tan is an Advanced Clinical Practitioner and founder of Tan & Co. O'Nwere-Tan has more than 18 years of experience spanning dermatology, cardiovascular health, women's health, and aesthetic medicine. Her specialist interests include acne, hyperpigmentation across all Fitzpatrick skin types, rosacea, skin rejuvenation and regenerative treatments.
Dr Richard Devine is a leading Aesthetic Doctor with expertise in non-invasive cosmetic procedures. He has previously worked at two highly acclaimed Harley Street clinics, The Consultant Clinic and Harley Street Skin Clinic. Dr Devine is a trained General Practitioner with the NHS, as well as an expert in the field of Aesthetic Medicine.
