How to Use Skincare Products Correctly

A good routine is simple: choose products suited to your skin, apply them in the right order, and use them consistently. Heat, humidity, air-conditioning and pollution can affect your skin, so adjust as needed rather than adding many products.

The simple rule: generally apply products from the lightest texture to the heaviest, and finish your morning routine with sunscreen.

Build your morning and evening routine

🌞 Morning · Protect

AM routine

1. Gentle cleanser

2. Optional hydrating toner

3. Optional serum

4. Moisturiser

5. Broad-spectrum sunscreen

Keep it simple and consistent.

🌙 Evening · Cleanse & care

PM routine

1. Remove makeup and sunscreen

2. Gentle cleanser

3. Treatment, if appropriate

4. Moisturiser

Introduce treatments slowly and follow label directions.

Step-by-step: how to apply skincare

1. Cleanse gently

Wash with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. At night, remove makeup and water-resistant sunscreen first with a cleansing oil, balm or micellar cleanser, then cleanse again if needed.

Tip: Avoid harsh scrubbing and very hot water to prevent dryness or irritation.

2. Use toner only if it helps your skin

Toner is optional. If you use one, choose a gentle, hydrating formula and pat it onto clean skin. Skip products that sting, dry your skin or offer no clear benefit.

3. Apply serums and targeted treatments

Use a small amount and follow the label. You do not need every active ingredient in one routine.

• • Vitamin C: often used in the morning for antioxidant care.

• • Hyaluronic acid: helps attract and retain skin moisture.

• • Niacinamide: may support the skin barrier and improve the look of uneven tone.

• • Retinoids or exfoliating acids: may help specific concerns but can irritate skin. Start slowly and avoid layering strong treatments without guidance.

• Introduce one active product at a time. Avoid retinoids during pregnancy and ask a healthcare professional for advice.

4. Moisturise to support the skin barrier

Moisturiser helps reduce water loss and keep skin comfortable. Lightweight lotions or gel-creams may suit humid weather; richer creams may help dry skin or air-conditioned environments. Choose what feels right for your skin.

5. Finish the morning routine with sunscreen

Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen as directed. Apply generously to exposed skin before going outdoors and reapply about every two hours outdoors, and after swimming, sweating or towel-drying. Hats, shade and protective clothing also help.

Sunscreen is the final step of your morning skincare routine, before makeup.

Small habits that make a difference

• • Patch-test: follow product instructions before regular use, especially if your skin is sensitive.

• • Keep it simple: start with cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen.

• • Give products time: hydration may feel immediate; uneven tone or breakouts can take weeks to improve.

• • Adjust for comfort: if redness, tightness, itching or stinging persists, pause the new product and simplify your routine.

• • Check labels: follow directions, expiry dates and storage guidance.

Remember: more products do not automatically mean better results. A gentle routine that suits your skin is often the best place to start.

Frequently asked questions