How to Layer Your Skincare Products for Maximum Results
When it comes to skincare, what you use matters — but so does how you use it. Many clients at our Port Melbourne clinic ask us about layering: should your serum go before your moisturiser? Can you use vitamin C and retinol together? Does the order of application really make a difference?
The answer is yes. The way you layer your skincare can impact how effectively the ingredients absorb and whether your products work synergistically or interfere with each other. Today, we’ll walk through the ideal product order, explain why it matters, and share a few product recommendations — including favourites from the SkinCeuticals range — to help you get the most out of your daily routine.
Why Skincare Order Matters
Your skin can only absorb so much at once. Thinner, water-based products are designed to deliver active ingredients deep into the skin, while thicker creams and oils are meant to seal in hydration and protect the skin barrier. If you apply a heavy moisturiser before a lightweight serum, for example, you may block the absorption of those high-performance ingredients.
Layering your products in the correct order ensures each formula can do its job properly — improving results and reducing the risk of irritation.
The Golden Rule: Thin to Thick
A helpful rule of thumb is to apply products in order of texture — from the thinnest, most water-like consistency to the thickest, most occlusive.
Here’s the general order:
Cleanser
Toner or essence (optional)
Serums (water-based first, then oil-based if needed)
Eye cream
Moisturiser
Facial oil (if used)
Sunscreen (AM only)
Let’s break each step down.
1. Cleanser
Start with a clean slate. Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and any overnight product residue. For sensitive skin, we recommend the SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser — it’s non-foaming, creamy, and calming for post-treatment or reactive skin types.
Explore our full Skin Care range to find the right cleanser for your skin type.
2. Toner or Essence (Optional)
While not essential, a toner or essence can help prep the skin for better absorption. Look for alcohol-free formulas with hydrating or soothing ingredients. This step can be especially beneficial for dehydrated or mature skin.
3. Serums
Serums deliver concentrated active ingredients and should be applied early in your routine to maximise penetration.
AM: Antioxidants like SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic or SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF (depending on your skin type). These help protect against free radical damage and improve the appearance of fine lines and skin tone.
PM: Hydrating or corrective serums such as SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier (for plumping and hydration) or Discoloration Defense (for uneven skin tone).
Layer water-based serums first, allow them to absorb, then follow with any oil-based serums.
4. Eye Cream
The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate. Apply a small amount of eye cream using your ring finger and gently tap it in. Try SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex if you’re concerned with dryness, dark circles, or fine lines.
5. Moisturiser
Moisturisers hydrate the skin and help lock in your previous layers. Choose a formula that suits your skin needs:
For dry or post-treatment skin: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2
For oily or combination skin: Daily Moisture offers lightweight hydration without heaviness.
If your skin feels irritated or compromised, Phyto Corrective Gel can be layered underneath or mixed into your moisturiser to calm and soothe.
6. Facial Oil (Optional)
If your skin needs extra nourishment or if you’re exposed to harsh weather, an oil can be used after moisturiser. This step is particularly helpful for dry or mature skin types, but not always necessary for oily or acne-prone skin.
7. Sunscreen (AM only)
In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF — even if you’re mostly indoors. Sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from UV damage, which contributes to premature ageing, pigmentation, and sensitivity.
We recommend SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50 for everyday wear. If you prefer a physical sunscreen, Sheer Mineral UV Defense SPF 50 offers non-irritating protection ideal for sensitive skin.
You can learn more about our favourite sunscreens and anti-ageing strategies on our Skin Rejuvenation page.
Other Tips for Smarter Layering
Let each layer absorb: Wait 30–60 seconds between steps to avoid pilling and ensure optimal penetration.
Apply actives carefully: If you’re using retinol, exfoliating acids, or other strong actives, apply them after your serum but before moisturiser at night. Never mix vitamin C with exfoliating acids in the same routine unless guided by a professional.
Less is more: Sensitive or compromised skin should prioritise barrier repair. If you’re unsure what to use together, we recommend starting with a consultation to build a personalised plan.
Can You Layer Too Much?
Yes. Using too many active ingredients or layering multiple treatments can overwhelm your skin — especially if you’re new to skincare, recovering from a treatment, or have sensitive skin. Signs you may be overdoing it include redness, flaking, stinging, or breakouts.
That’s why we advocate for a minimal, evidence-based routine using high-quality formulations. Brands like SkinCeuticals offer clinical-grade products designed to work together in a streamlined system — rather than needing an entire shelf of conflicting formulas.
What About Post-Treatment Skin?
If you’ve recently had a treatment such as laser, peels, or needling, your skincare routine should shift to support recovery.
Avoid actives (like vitamin C, retinol, or acids) during the healing phase, and instead focus on hydration, repair, and sun protection. We often recommend:
SkinCeuticals Epidermal Repair – A specialised post-procedure cream
Gentle Cleanser – Calms and cleans without stripping
Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50 – Protects while allowing the skin to breathe
If you’re unsure how to care for your skin post-treatment, please reach out to our team. Learn more about our Facials, Fotona Laser Treatments, and how we guide your skincare journey from consultation through recovery.
In Summary
Layering your skincare properly doesn’t need to be complicated — but it does need to be intentional. The right order ensures each product works efficiently and reduces the risk of irritation or waste. Whether you’re targeting pigmentation, dryness, fine lines, or sensitivity, a well-structured routine paired with clinical guidance will always deliver better results.
Not sure where to start? Our Port Melbourne team offers skin consultations tailored to your skin type and goals. We’ll review your current products, make recommendations, and help you build a routine that feels both effective and achievable.
Visit our About Us page to meet the team or book a consultation today.