Moisturizer generally comes after serum and before heavier creams.
To understand why, consider the general rule of skincare application: apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency. This allows each product to properly penetrate the skin.
Here's a typical skincare routine order, which helps illustrate when to use a moisturizer:
- Cleanser: Removes dirt, oil, and makeup.
- Toner: Balances the skin's pH.
- Serum: Delivers concentrated ingredients (e.g., antioxidants, vitamins). Serums are typically water-based and lightweight.
- Moisturizer: Hydrates the skin and creates a barrier to lock in moisture. These are usually lighter in consistency than creams.
- Eye Cream: Addresses specific concerns around the eyes (e.g., wrinkles, dark circles).
- Cream (Night Cream or Treatment Cream): These are usually thicker and richer than moisturizers and often contain ingredients best used overnight. They provide intense hydration and repair.
- Facial Oil (optional): Creates a final occlusive barrier to seal in all the previous products.
- Sunscreen (daytime only): Protects the skin from UV damage.
In summary, moisturizer is typically applied before a thicker cream, allowing the moisturizer's hydrating ingredients to absorb before the cream creates a richer barrier.
