How to Layer Your Skincare: A Step-by-Step Guide for Every Skin Type

If your skincare routine isn’t giving you the results you expected, the issue might not be what you’re using- it could be how you’re layering it.

Layering your skincare products in the correct order can make a huge difference in how effective they are. When applied properly, active ingredients absorb better, hydration lasts longer, and your skin gets the full benefit of your routine.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to building and layering a routine that works for you.

Why Layering Matters

Skincare is all about consistency and synergy. Lightweight, water-based formulas should go on first so they can absorb properly. Heavier, oil-based or occlusive products should be applied last to lock everything in.

Getting this order right helps:

• Maximize product absorption

• Prevent pilling or irritation

• Keep your skin barrier happy and balanced

Step 1: Cleanser

Always start with a clean face. Your cleanser should remove dirt, sunscreen, and excess oil without stripping your skin.

We recommend the Everyday Cleanser- a gentle, sulfate-free formula with 1% glycolic acid that lightly exfoliates and keeps skin smooth, without disrupting your barrier. Morning or night, this step sets the stage for everything that follows.

Step 2: Toner or Mist (Optional)

Apply after cleansing, especially if your skin feels dry or tight. While not required, a hydrating toner or mist can help prep skin for the rest of your routine.

Step 3: Treatment Serums

Next comes your targeted treatment. Think: niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or exfoliating acids.

Our Balancing Serum is a go-to here. It combines niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and willow bark extract to calm, hydrate, and clarify- making it ideal for breakout-prone or reactive skin.

Step 4: Moisturizer

Your moisturizer helps seal in hydration and restore balance. Choose one based on how your skin feels that day:

• For lightweight hydration with a barely-there feel, try our Lightweight Moisturizer. It’s perfect for hot, humid days or oilier skin types.

• For deeper nourishment and barrier support, reach for Nourishing Cream. It’s powered by bakuchiol, jojoba, and squalane for visibly smoother, firmer skin.

Step 5: Face Oil (Optional)

If your skin still feels dry or you want an added glow, finish with a few drops of oil. It locks everything in and helps your barrier stay balanced.

Hydrating Oil is a great final step. It mimics the skin’s natural sebum with a blend of squalane, marula, and jojoba oils.

Step 6: SPF (AM Only)

In the morning, always end with sunscreen. No matter how well you layer your actives, they won’t protect you from UV damage. Go for a mineral SPF for sensitive or post-treatment skin.

Bonus: Masks + Treatments

Use 1–3 times per week to address specific concerns. Apply masks after cleansing, before serums or moisturizer.

• For congestion, redness, or oil control, try the Clarifying Face Mask with zinc oxide and willow bark.

• For brightening and evening tone, the Brightening Face Mask uses vitamin C, kaolin clay, and calendula.

• For gentle exfoliate, the Smoothing Face Mask delivers sea kelp and hyaluronic acid in a single-use, travel-ready pouch- perfect for on-the-go skin resets.

Keep It Simple, Consistent, and Skin-Loving

You don’t need a 10-step routine to get results. Just a few well-layered products that support your skin where it is- whether that’s dry, oily, sensitive, or somewhere in between.