October 07, 2026
What Order Should I Apply My Skincare Serums In?
Quick answer
Apply serums from thinnest to thickest. Water-based serums like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid go first, thicker serums next, and face oils last, followed by moisturizer and, in the morning, sunscreen.
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A Simple Order to Follow
1
Cleanse.
2
Water-based serums, like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid (how to layer them).
3
Thicker or creamier serums.
5
Moisturizer.
6
Sunscreen, in the morning.
Why the Order Matters
1
Thin before thick
Lighter, watery products absorb best on clean skin.
2
Oils seal it in
Oils sit on top and help hold earlier layers in.
3
Sunscreen goes last
It protects best as the final layer, not mixed under others.
4
Less is more
Two or three serums are plenty for most routines. For the simplest version, see a three-step routine for men.
Morning vs. Night
What to Skip
✕
Applying oil before a water-based serum, which makes it harder for the serum to absorb.
✕
Layering so many products that your skin feels heavy.
✕
Skipping sunscreen after a morning routine.
Build Your Routine with Cosmedica
Start with Cosmedica's Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum as your hydrating layer, then add a serum or face oil to suit your skin.
✓Hydrating first layer✓Layers under moisturizer✓Morning and night
What Customers Say
Also available at: Amazon · Target · CVS · Walmart · iHerb
Frequently Asked Questions
Do serums go before or after moisturizer?
Before. Serums go on clean skin, and moisturizer goes on top.
Where does face oil go in my routine?
After your serums and before or mixed with moisturizer, depending on the oil.
How many serums can I use at once?
Two or three is plenty for most people.
Does sunscreen go on last?
Yes. In the morning, sunscreen is always the final step.