PoreIQSkincare Routine Order: What to Apply First (AM and PM)
The correct order to layer cleanser, serums, moisturizer, retinol and sunscreen — with simple morning and night routines you can copy.
The one rule
Apply products from thinnest to thickest, and put the product that needs to touch your skin most — usually your treatment — before heavier layers. Sunscreen is always last in the morning.
Morning routine order
- Cleanser (or just water if your skin is dry).
- Antioxidant serum such as Vitamin C.
- Hydrating serum such as Hyaluronic Acid or Niacinamide.
- Moisturizer.
- Sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum.
Night routine order
- Cleanser (double cleanse if you wore sunscreen or makeup).
- Treatment: Retinol or an exfoliant such as Glycolic Acid — not both on the same night.
- Hydrating serum (optional).
- Moisturizer, ideally with Ceramides.
- Oil such as Squalane (optional, last).
Which products should not share a routine
The most common conflicts are two strong actives at once. Keep these apart:
- Retinol and Vitamin C Keep apart
- Retinol and Glycolic Acid Keep apart
- Retinol and Salicylic Acid Keep apart
- Vitamin C and Benzoyl Peroxide Keep apart
How long to wait between layers
For most products, wait until the previous layer no longer feels wet — usually under a minute. Long waits are rarely necessary. With retinol, applying on fully dry skin can reduce irritation.
Keep it short
A routine you will actually do every day beats a 10-step routine you skip. Cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning, plus cleanser, one treatment and moisturizer at night, covers most people.
Frequently asked questions
Does serum go before or after moisturizer?
Before. Serums are thinner and are meant to sit closer to the skin; moisturizer goes on top.
Do I put sunscreen before or after moisturizer?
After. Sunscreen should be the last skincare step in the morning, before makeup.
Keep reading
- How to Find Your Skin Type at Home (The 30-Minute Bare-Face Test)
- How to Read a Skincare Ingredient Label (INCI List Explained)
- How to Get Rid of Blackheads (and When They Are Just Sebaceous Filaments)
General skincare information, not medical advice. Sources include the American Academy of Dermatology (acne tips, dry skin tips). See our editorial policy.