The Perfect Order: A Simple Guide to Layering Your Skincare

You’ve carefully selected clean, effective products for your routine, but the moment you stand in front of the mirror with a handful of bottles, the question hits: What goes first?

Choosing the right order for your serums, creams, and treatments isn't just about personal preference—it directly impacts how well your products work. Using the correct sequence ensures that each ingredient is properly absorbed and doesn't block the effectiveness of the next.

At Clear & Co., we believe in simplifying the science. Here is our straightforward guide to the perfect skincare layering order.

The Golden Rule: Thinnest to Thickest

The most reliable principle to remember is this: Always apply products from the thinnest consistency (most watery) to the thickest consistency (most creamy/oily).

This ensures that lightweight active ingredients, which need to penetrate deepest, aren't blocked by heavier, barrier-forming creams.

Your 6-Step Layering Guide

Follow these steps for both morning and evening routines, with a few crucial distinctions:

Step 1: Cleanser (Prep)

• Purpose: To create a clean, balanced canvas. All subsequent products will work better on fresh skin.

• The Product: Start with a gentle wash like the Silent Empire Cleansing Gel to remove dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping your skin.

Step 2: Toner/Essence (Balance & Prep)

• Purpose: Balances your skin’s pH and prepares it for optimal absorption.

• The Product: Use a refreshing liquid or a pre-soaked pad, such as the Flaner Cypress Aloe Calming Toner Pads, to sweep away residue and deliver a first layer of hydration and soothing ingredients.

Step 3: Serums & Targeted Treatments (The Heavy Lifters)

• Purpose: To deliver the highest concentration of active ingredients deep into your skin. Start with the most watery serums first.

• AM Routine: Focus on Protection (Vitamin C, Antioxidants) and Hydration (Hyaluronic Acid, like the Eliot Beauty Serum).

• PM Routine: Focus on Renewal (Cellinol-5™ Serum for anti-aging) or Clarification (Dexynol-16.3™ Serum for blemishes).

Step 4: Eye Gel/Cream (Targeted Care)

• Purpose: The skin around your eyes is the thinnest on your face and needs targeted, gentle care.

• The Product: Gently pat a lightweight gel, like the Silent Empire Eye Gel, around the orbital bone. Apply before a thicker face cream to ensure it can absorb effectively.

Step 5: Moisturizer/Face Cream (Seal & Lock)

• Purpose: This step locks in all the benefits of your serums and strengthens your skin barrier to prevent moisture loss.

• The Product: Use a nourishing cream tailored to your needs, such as the Flaner Fig Pudding Barrier Repair Cream, to seal in hydration and protect the skin overnight.

Step 6: Sunscreen (The Morning Finale—Daytime Only!)

• Purpose: To create a physical and chemical barrier against harmful UV rays. This is the most crucial step for daytime.

• The Product: Your sunscreen must always be the final step of your morning routine to work effectively. Do not mix it or layer products on top of it. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, like the Irawo Beauty Super Screen Cream SPF 35.

A Crucial Note on Ingredient Conflicts

While the order is simple, be mindful of mixing high-strength ingredients. Do not use retinoids (Vitamin A) and strong exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs) in the same routine. This can lead to excessive irritation and damage your skin barrier.

Instead, alternate them: use your exfoliating serum (Dexynol-16.3™) on Monday, and your renewal serum (Cellinol-5™) on Tuesday.

Consistency and proper application are the two secrets to effective skincare. Follow this guide, and watch your clean products deliver the clear, radiant results you deserve.