How to Strengthen Your Skin Barrier
Read Now
Updated September 2026
Quick answer: Layer skincare from thinnest to thickest: cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, then face oil, with sunscreen as the last step in the morning. Thin, water-based products go first so they can absorb. Thicker creams and oils go on top to seal everything in.
What order should skincare go in?
| Step | Morning | Night |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cleanser | Cleanser (double cleanse if you wore makeup or SPF) |
| 2 | Toner (optional) | Toner (optional) |
| 3 | Serum, such as vitamin C or a hydrating serum | Treatment serum, such as bakuchiol, retinol or acne care |
| 4 | Moisturizer | Moisturizer |
| 5 | SPF 30 or higher | Face oil (optional) |
Why does the order matter?
Every layer changes what the next one can do. Water-based serums absorb best on clean skin. Put a thick cream or oil down first and it forms a film, so the serum on top mostly sits there. Sunscreen goes last in the morning because it needs to stay on the surface to protect you.
Step by step
1. Cleanse
Start with a gentle cleanser, morning and night. If you're wearing makeup or sunscreen, take it off first with a balm or micellar water. Our Hydraglow Gel Cleanser uses fruit enzymes and hyaluronic acid to clean without that tight, stripped feeling.
2. Tone
Toner removes leftover residue and preps skin for serum. It's optional, but helpful for oily or congested skin. Apply with a cotton round or press it in with your palms.
3. Treat with a serum
Serums carry the most active ingredients, so they go on close to bare skin. Using two? Apply the thinnest first and let it sink in before the next. We keep it to two serums max per routine.
4. Moisturize
Moisturizer seals in the serum and keeps water from escaping. Every skin type needs one, including oily skin.
5. Oil (night) or SPF (morning)
Face oil goes on top of moisturizer at night to lock everything in. In the morning, sunscreen is always the final step.
How long should you wait between layers?
About 30 to 60 seconds is enough for most products. You want each layer to absorb, not dry completely. Give sunscreen a few minutes to set before makeup.
A simple Luma & Leaf routine
- Morning: Hydraglow Gel Cleanser, Afterglow Vitamin C Serum, Fresh Lift Firming Moisturizer, SPF
- Night: Hydraglow Gel Cleanser, HydroRescue Hydration Serum, Fresh Lift Firming Moisturizer, Midnight Mend Night Oil
Frequently asked questions
Does serum or moisturizer go first?
Serum goes first. It's thinner and made to absorb, and moisturizer seals it in.
Does face oil go before or after moisturizer?
After. Oil sits on top and slows water loss.
Where does sunscreen go in a routine?
Last, every morning. Makeup can go over it once it has set.
Do you need a toner?
No, but it helps if you're oily, congested or want extra exfoliation or hydration without adding another serum.
