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The Correct Order to Apply Skincare Products


The Correct Order to Apply Skincare Products - Rodan + Fields

Your skincare routine matters more than you think. Ever wonder why your products don’t always deliver? The secret isn’t just what you use, but the sequence. Using products in the right order helps every ingredient absorb fully, giving you smoother, brighter, healthier-looking skin.

Why Sequence Matters

Think of your skin like a sponge; layering properly lets each step do its job. Dermatologists agree: applying from thinnest to thickest texture is the key (serum before cream, SPF last).

Skip the right order and you may be blocking results, like putting moisturizer before serum, which can keep those powerful actives from penetrating.

The 2025 Skincare Routine: Step by Step

Morning Routine (AM)

AM steps are all about protection + hydration, your daily defense.

  1. Cleanser
    Removes overnight oil and impurities to prep skin. Clinical truth: cleansing is step one if you want every product after to work harder.
  2. Toner (optional)
    Helps refine pores and balance hydration, think of it as a fast reset for skin.
  3. Serum
    Concentrated actives (like Vitamin C, peptides or niacinamide) target brightness, firmness, and protection against daily stressors.
  4. Eye Cream
    The eye area is thinner than the rest of your face. Target lines, puffiness, or dark circles here.
  5. Moisturizer
    Locks in hydration. Even oily or breakout-prone skin needs this step.
  6. Sunscreen (SPF)
    This is non-negotiable. Dermatologists agree: SPF is the #1 defense against visible aging and long-term skin damage.

Night Routine (PM)

PM focuses on repair + renewal, your reset button.

  1. Cleanser
    Removes makeup, SPF, and dirt. Double cleansing (oil, then cream/foam) is ideal if you wear makeup.
  2. Exfoliant (2–3x/week)
    Chemical exfoliants (like AHAs/BHAs) sweep away dead cells so your regimen works smarter.
  3. Toner
    Adds a hydration boost and primes skin for repair.
  4. Serum / Treatment
    PM is best for retinol, peptides, or targeted treatments. Avoid layering Vitamin C + retinol in the same routine.
  5. Eye Cream
    Helps treat lines, puffiness, and dryness while you sleep.
  6. Moisturizer
    Go richer at night for deeper repair and hydration.

Derm Tips for Smarter Layering

  • Thinnest to Thickest: Water-light formulas first, rich creams last.
  • Water before Oil: Oils can block lighter serums if applied first.
  • Timing Matters: Wait 30–60 seconds between each step.
  • Don’t Overload: Avoid mixing Vitamin C, retinol, and strong acids on the same night.
  • Keep It Targeted: Not every skin needs every step. Consistency with the right products = results.

Ingredient Pairing Made Simple

  • Vitamin C → AM only (brightens + defends against daily stressors)
  • Retinol → PM only (supports cell turnover + renewal)
  • Acids (AHA/BHA) → 2–3x/week (avoid on retinol nights)
  • Peptides & Hydrating Serums → Any time, work well with most other ingredients

The right steps, in the right sequence power long-term skin health, not miracle cures or overnight fixes. That’s why derm-developed regimens deliver better, lasting results: every product is engineered to work together.

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Founded by two Stanford-trained dermatologists, Rodan + Fields stands at the forefront of clinical skincare innovation. Every formula is dermatologist-developed, rigorously tested, and engineered to deliver visible, real-world results. Driven by science and a relentless commitment to efficacy, Rodan + Fields regimens are designed to target your unique skin concerns, helping you achieve healthier, brighter, and more resilient skin with confidence. Trusted by millions, this brand delivers proven solutions, not empty promises.

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KEY CONCERNS
 

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Excess Oil
Uneven Tone + Rough Texture
Enlarged + Clogged Pores
Blackheads

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