Can I use The Ordinary Caffeine Solution under moisturizer?

How to layer it

1. 1Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, then gently pat dry.
2. 2Apply a small amount of Caffeine Solution to the eye contour. The Ordinary places the serum after cleansers and toners, before moisturizer and SPF.
3. 3Apply moisturizer. When applying a cream around your eyes, use your ring finger and a gentle touch to avoid pulling on the delicate skin.
4. 4Apply sunscreen as part of your morning routine, before makeup. If you wear makeup, apply it after your skincare.

You can also layer Caffeine Solution under an eye cream or another eye treatment. The serum belongs in the treatment stage, not in a special category reserved for bottles with long names.1

Does it replace moisturizer?

Keep moisturizer as a separate step. The Ordinary's routine places Caffeine Solution in the Treat stage for the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, followed by moisturizer in the Seal stage for hydration. For example, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA follows the treatments to keep the skin's surface hydrated and support moisture retention. Both products appear in the morning and evening routine. The moisturizer still has a job, despite the serum arriving with both a percentage and an acronym.3

What should you expect?

Caffeine Solution is a lightweight, water based serum aimed at the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. You may notice less puffiness within a few days of consistent use. Dark circles and broader improvements in the eye area's appearance may take several weeks to become more noticeable.1

What if your skin gets irritated?

Patch test first: apply a small amount to clean skin on your upper forearm, keep it dry, and rinse after 24 hours. Do not use the serum if redness, burning, itching, blistering or irritation develops. Use only on unbroken skin. If irritation occurs during regular use, rinse off, stop using it and consult a physician.1

Permission to layer products is not a reason to add several more eye treatments. Using too many skincare products can irritate skin, especially when combining multiple products aimed at signs of aging. Keep the distinction clear: treatment comes after cleansing, moisturizer follows treatment, and makeup comes afterward. If you have questions or concerns about caring for your skin, see a dermatologist.2