What order should I use two serums in?

How to apply your two serums

1. 1Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and gently pat dry.
2. 2Check both serums' directions for combinations to avoid, application amounts and morning or evening use. If you use a skin medication, apply it after cleansing as directed rather than sorting it solely by thickness.
3. 3Apply the first serum using its directed amount, then the second. The Ordinary advises letting each product fully absorb before applying the next, with no specific waiting time.
4. 4Apply moisturizer after your serums. In the morning, finish with sunscreen; vitamin C does not replace it.

Do water based serums always go before oil based serums?

Usually, but "always" is too strong. The Ordinary places water based serums before water free formulas and oils. Medik8 places water based serums before oil based serums, then emulsion serums. An emulsion combines ingredients such as oil and water that do not normally mix well. These brand directions differ, so use the sequence for your actual formulas rather than assuming every serum fits one universal order.12

Should the thinnest skincare product always go first?

Thinnest to thickest is a useful starting point, especially for two serums with the same base. Texture is a useful clue, not a complete filing system for the bathroom shelf. The Ordinary allows its water based Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% in either order, suggesting the serum for your main concern first. Medik8 instead advises sorting serums with the same base from lightest to heaviest.124

Does a thick serum go before a gel moisturizer?

Generally, yes. Treatment comes before moisturizer, so a gel moisturizer does not automatically move ahead of a serum just because it feels lighter. Medik8 puts even its water based H.E.O. moisturizer after its serum steps. Use product role and directions alongside texture: apply your serums, then your gel moisturizer, unless the products specify a different sequence.13

Where does an oil based vitamin C serum go in a routine?

Generally, after water based serums and before moisturizer and morning sunscreen. Medik8 places its oil based C Tetra in that position, before its emulsion serums. There is a specific exception worth checking: Medik8 warns that its oil like Super C Ferulic can roll off when layered over water based serums. For that combination, Medik8 advises Super C Ferulic in the morning and the water based serum in the evening. Changing the routine can be more useful than changing the order.1

When should you use just one serum?

Two serums are optional, not an entry requirement for owning a skincare routine. More products increase the chance of irritation, particularly when combining products targeting signs of aging. Introduce fewer new products at once and avoid heavily fragranced formulas. Stop the product and arrange a dermatologist appointment if irritation develops. If your second product is actually a standalone face oil, be cautious with acne prone skin, rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis, a condition causing itchy, flaky patches. Face oils are not suitable for everyone, and some can block pores.345