Skincare Routine Order: Feeling Overwhelmed by All the Products? Start Here.

Step 1: Cleanser

Every skincare routine should begin with a cleanser. Throughout the day and night, oil, dirt, makeup and other impurities build up on your skin. Cleansing creates a fresh canvas so the products that follow can absorb more effectively.

Choose a cleanser that works for your skin type and use it morning and night.

Step 2: Toner

Not everyone needs a toner, but it can be a helpful addition to your routine. Toners can provide an extra layer of cleansing, help balance the skin and add hydration.

Think of toner as a prep step that helps get your skin ready for the treatments and moisturizers that follow.

Step 3: Serum

Serums are where you can customize your routine based on your skincare goals.

Looking to brighten your complexion? A Vitamin C serum may help. Want more hydration? Consider a hyaluronic acid serum. Managing acne or enlarged pores? Ingredients like niacinamide may be beneficial.

Because serums contain concentrated active ingredients, they're typically applied before heavier products so they can penetrate the skin more effectively.

Step 4: Retinoid (Evening Routine)

If reducing fine lines, improving skin texture or addressing acne is a priority, a retinoid may be worth adding to your routine.

Retinoids help support collagen production and skin cell turnover, making them a popular option for both anti-aging and acne care. Since they can increase sensitivity to the sun, they're generally best used at night.

If you're new to retinoids, start slowly and follow your provider's recommendations.

Step 5: Moisturizer

Once you've applied your treatment products, it's time to lock in hydration.

Moisturizer helps support the skin barrier, reduces dryness and keeps skin feeling smooth and comfortable. Even oily skin types benefit from daily moisturizing.

Apply moisturizer to your face and don't forget your neck, which can also show signs of aging over time.

Step 6: Sunscreen (Morning Routine)

If you only commit to one skincare product, make it sunscreen.

Daily sunscreen use helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can contribute to premature aging, sun damage and skin cancer. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it as the final step in your morning routine.

The Bottom Line: Keep It Simple

The skincare industry is full of products, trends and influencer recommendations, making it easy to feel like you're not doing enough. In reality, a consistent routine with the right products in the correct order often matters more than the number of products you use.

A simple routine can look like this:

Morning

1. Cleanser
2. Toner (optional)
3. Serum
4. Moisturizer
5. Sunscreen

Night

1. Cleanser
2. Toner (optional)
3. Serum
4. Retinoid (if using)
5. Moisturizer

When in doubt, remember this rule: apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency, finishing with sunscreen in the morning.

Concerned About a Skin Issue?

Not every skin concern can be solved with a serum or moisturizer. If you have persistent skin issues or notice unusual changes, a primary care provider can evaluate your symptoms and help you get the care you need. Don't have one? Find a provider today.

West Michigan

Southeast Michigan

This blog was medically reviewed by a Trinity Health Provider