How to Layer Your Skin Care Products in the Right Order

Your morning skin care routine is the perfect time to infuse your skin with the hydration it needs to stay healthy, fresh, and radiant all day long. Starting your day with the right products can help balance your skin’s natural oils, enhance its texture, and provide an immediate glow.

A water-based cleanser is typically the first step in your morning skin care routine. It removes water-based impurities such as sweat, dirt, and environmental pollutants that accumulate on your skin overnight. Unlike oil-based cleansers, which target impurities like makeup and excess sebum, water-based cleansers focus on refreshing and gently cleansing your skin without leaving residue.

● When to use it? Use it as the first step in your morning routine to ensure you’re starting with a fresh, clean base. For people with oily or combination skin, this step is especially important to balance oil production from overnight.

● How to use it? Apply a small amount of the water-based cleanser to wet skin, gently massaging it in circular motions. After massaging for 20-30 seconds, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

● Skip if: If you have very dry or sensitive skin, you might want to skip this step entirely in the morning and simply rinse your face with water. This prevents over-cleansing and avoids stripping your skin of essential moisture.

Using a gentle, hydrating water-based cleanser like Vivier’s Ultra Foaming Cleanser is a great choice. It’s formulated to cleanse thoroughly without disrupting the skin's natural moisture balance, making it suitable for all skin types.

A toner is a lightweight liquid that serves multiple functions in your skin care routine. It helps to hydrate, balance the skin's pH, and prepare the skin for better absorption of subsequent products. Some toners, like Vivier’s, have additional exfoliating and hydrating properties, which can smooth the skin and minimize the appearance of pores.

● When to use it? Apply a toner immediately after cleansing to refresh and prep your skin for the next steps. Toners come in a wide array of options, for those with oily or combination skin, there are toners to help reduce excess oil and refine pores. For those with normal or dry skin, hydrating toners help lock in moisture.

● How to use it? After cleansing, apply the toner to a cotton pad or your hands, and gently swipe it across your face and neck. Alternatively, some toners can be misted directly onto the skin for a quick hydration boost. 

● Skip if: Feel free to skip toner if you prefer fewer steps; it’s helpful but not essential for healthy, balanced skin. 

For a gentle yet effective option, Vivier’s Refreshing Toner is an excellent choice. It’s alcohol-free, which makes it suitable for a wide range of skin types, and it contains both hydrating and exfoliating ingredients to keep your skin smooth, fresh, and balanced.

An antioxidant serum is a vital part of your morning skin care routine, helping to protect your skin from environmental damage like pollution, UV rays, and free radicals. These serums also play a key role in correcting skin imperfections, brightening the complexion, and supporting overall skin health.

● When to use it? Use an antioxidant serum every morning after cleansing and toning. It’s an essential part of protecting your skin during the day. Antioxidant serums are particularly beneficial if you’re looking to combat skin imperfections like uneven skin tone, dark spots, or dullness.

● How to use it? Apply 2-3 drops of the antioxidant serum to your face and neck, gently patting it into the skin. Make sure the serum is fully absorbed before moving on to the next step.

● Skip if: Everyone should use some form of antioxidant in their skin care routine, but if you have ultra-sensitive skin that has difficulty tolerating the gold-standard form of Vitamin C: L-Ascorbic Acid, you may want to try a different form of Vitamin C that may be more easily tolerated but slightly less effective. 

For a powerful yet gentle option, Vivier’s C E Peptides is a best seller for a reason. It contains 10% L-Ascorbic acid and peptides that protect against environmental damage, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and brighten the complexion, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types.

Spot treatments are targeted products designed to treat specific blemishes, such as acne, breakouts, or dark spots. These treatments are formulated with potent active ingredients that work to reduce inflammation, kill acne-causing bacteria, or lighten dark spots on the skin. Applying a spot treatment directly to problem areas can help speed up the healing process without affecting the surrounding skin.

● When to use it? Use a spot treatment after applying your antioxidant serum but before applying your moisturizer. It should be used only on areas with active breakouts or dark spots to avoid irritation. Spot treatments are ideal for addressing sudden blemishes or stubborn acne marks.

● How to use it? Apply a small amount of the spot treatment directly to the affected area using clean fingers or a cotton swab. Allow the product to dry before applying the next step in your routine. This ensures the active ingredients can penetrate the skin and work on the blemish.

● Skip if: You can skip this step if you don’t have any active blemishes or acne. Overuse of spot treatments on non-problematic areas can cause unnecessary dryness or irritation. 

For effective acne treatment, consider Vivier’s Acne Treatment Lotion, which contains pharmaceutical-grade benzoyl peroxide and resorcinol. This spot treatment works to reduce blemishes while minimizing irritation and inflammation.

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, which is why it often shows early signs of aging, puffiness, and dark circles. Using a dedicated eye cream ensures that this sensitive area is well-hydrated and protected. 

● When to use it? Apply eye cream morning and night to keep the under-eye area hydrated and to prevent or reduce signs of aging like crow’s feet. It is especially useful if you suffer from puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines around the eyes.

● How to use it? Take a small amount of the eye cream (roughly the size of a grain of rice) and gently tap it around the orbital bone with your ring finger, which applies the least pressure. Avoid applying too close to the eyes to prevent irritation, as the product will naturally move as it absorbs.

● Skip if: If you don’t have specific concerns like puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines, you can skip the eye cream step. But keep in mind, regular use of eye cream can help delay the appearance of aging signs in the future.

For an effective solution, Vivier’s Radiant Eye Contour Cream is a great choice. It hydrates the under-eye area, reduces puffiness, and diminishes the appearance of fine lines with a gentle, lightweight formula.

One of the final steps in your morning skin care routine is applying a hydrator or moisturizer to lock in moisture and protect your skin throughout the day. While both hydrators and moisturizers are crucial for maintaining healthy skin, they serve different functions. A hydrator draws moisture into the skin, while a moisturizer seals that hydration in, preventing water loss. You can learn more about the difference between hydrators and moisturizers.

● When to use it? Use a hydrator or moisturizer after applying serums and treatments. For dry skin, it can be beneficial to use both a hydrator and a rich moisturizer. For oily or combination skin, you might prefer a lightweight moisturizer or a hydrating gel.

● How to use it? Apply a dime-sized amount evenly across your face and neck, gently massaging it into the skin. Make sure the moisturizer or hydrator is fully absorbed before applying sunscreen.

● Skip if: You can skip this step if your skin feels sufficiently hydrated from the serums you’ve applied earlier. However, for most skin types, this step is important to keep the skin balanced and protected.

For optimal hydration, Vivier’s Lexxel® is a great option. It’s a hypoallergenic, soothing moisturizer that calms and hydrates the skin without causing irritation. Suitable for all skin types, Lexxel® ensures your skin remains hydrated and protected throughout the day without feeling heavy.

Sunscreen is the most important steps in your morning skin care routine. It protects your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can lead to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and, more seriously, skin cancer. Sunscreen forms a protective barrier against these damaging rays, helping to maintain your skin's health and youthful appearance.

● When to use it? Apply sunscreen every morning as the last step of your skin care routine. It’s crucial to use sunscreen if you’re outside, or sitting near a window, even on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate through clouds and glass. Sunscreen is vital for all skin types and tones, offering protection that slows down visible aging and prevents sun damage.

● How to use it? Apply a generous amount to your face, neck, and any exposed areas 15 minutes before sun exposure. Make sure to evenly spread the sunscreen to ensure full protection. If you’re going to be outside for extended periods, reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.

● Skip if: Never skip sunscreen during the day, regardless of whether you’re indoors or outdoors. Even indoor lighting and computer screens emit blue light, which can cause damage over time. 

For a lightweight, non-greasy option, Vivier’s SHEER SPF 45 is an excellent broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides high-level protection without a heavy or oily feel. Additionally, the SHEER SPF 30 Mineral Tinted offers sun protection along with a subtle tint, perfect for those who prefer a natural, makeup-free look. Its broad-spectrum formula helps shield against UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent sunburn and protect skin from long-term sun damage, while also offering light coverage that evens out skin tone. 

This tinted sunscreen is ideal for those who want to blur minor imperfections and achieve a smooth, even complexion without the need for a full foundation. Its mineral-based composition is gentle on the skin, making it suitable even for sensitive skin types. The non-comedogenic formula won’t clog pores, so you can enjoy a fresh, radiant finish throughout the day. With the added benefit of a natural tint, Vivier SHEER SPF 30 Mineral Tinted is a versatile choice, combining effective sun defense with a polished, effortlessly beautiful look

Your evening skin care routine is all about thoroughly cleansing and repairing your skin after a long day. The focus is on removing makeup, dirt, and impurities, followed by treatments and hydration that help the skin regenerate overnight.

An oil-based makeup remover is an essential first step in your evening skin care routine if you wear makeup or sunscreen. Oil-based cleansers are designed to break down and dissolve makeup, excess oils, and other impurities that water-based cleansers might struggle to remove. 

● When to use it? Use an oil-based makeup remover every evening if you’ve been wearing makeup or sunscreen, or if your skin is exposed to pollution or environmental aggressors throughout the day.

● How to use it? Apply the oil-based cleanser directly to dry skin. Gently massage it in circular motions to break down makeup and oil-based impurities. After massaging for about 30 seconds, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water or wipe off with a damp cloth.

● Skip if: If you don’t wear makeup or have not used heavy sunscreen during the day, you can skip the oil-based remover and go straight to a water-based cleanser. 

If you use an oil-based cleanser, following up with a water-based cleanser is essential. This second step removes any residue and impurities that the oil cleanser has broken down, leaving your skin completely fresh and ready to absorb your skincare products more effectively. A clean canvas is crucial for preventing clogged pores and ensuring your skin stays balanced and clear.

A toner is an important part of the evening skin care routine because it helps to restore hydration and balance to the skin after cleansing or exfoliating. It also prepares the skin to absorb the treatments and moisturizers that follow. After using a rinse-off mask or exfoliator, applying toner helps to calm the skin, restore its natural pH, and remove any lingering impurities.

● When to use it? Apply toner right after cleansing or after using a rinse-off mask or exfoliator/scrub. It can provide a soothing and hydrating layer that prepares the skin for the next steps in your routine, such as serums or treatments. 

● How to use it? After cleansing, apply the toner to a cotton pad or your hands, and gently swipe it across your face and neck.

● Skip if: If your skin is already well-hydrated and balanced after cleansing or masking, you might choose to skip toner. However, those with dry skin often benefit from toners that add a layer of hydration before applying serums and treatments.

Exfoliating is a crucial part of your evening skin care routine, as it helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and keep your skin smooth and refreshed. Depending on your skin’s needs, you can choose between a chemical exfoliator, a physical exfoliator. Each type has its benefits, but exfoliating should be done in moderation to avoid irritation.

● When to use it? Use a physical scrub 1-2 times per week, depending on your skin type and concerns. People with oily or combination skin may benefit from more frequent exfoliation, while those with dry or sensitive skin should limit exfoliation to prevent over-drying or irritation. 

● How to use it? Apply a small amount of the exfoliator to clean, damp skin, gently massaging in circular motions. Follow up with your toner if desired. 

● Skip if: If your skin is sensitive or you’ve already exfoliated recently. Over-exfoliating can cause irritation, redness, and even damage the skin’s protective barrier.

If you're looking for a scrub, Vivier's Vitamin C Scrub offers a gentle physical exfoliation experience with the added benefit of brightening your skin. Enriched with Vitamin C, this scrub not only removes dead skin cells but also promotes a radiant, refreshed complexion, helping to even out skin tone and improve texture. It’s the perfect choice for a healthy glow and smoother skin.

Serums are a powerhouse step in both your morning and evening skin care routines. They contain concentrated active ingredients designed to target specific skin concerns, such as dehydration, fine lines, or hyperpigmentation. Because serums are formulated with smaller molecules, they penetrate deeply into the skin, making them one of the most effective steps in your routine.

● When to use it? Apply your serum immediately after using a toner. The toner prepares your skin by ensuring it’s hydrated and balanced, which allows the serum to penetrate more effectively. Serums can be used both in the morning and evening, depending on your skin’s needs. In the evening, you might choose a hydrating or repairing serum to replenish the skin while you sleep.

● How to use it? Apply a few drops of serum onto your fingertips. Gently pat or press the serum into the skin on your face and neck , ensuring even distribution. Serums are highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way.

● Don’t skip this step! Everyone should incorporate some type of serum into their routine, customized to their skin’s needs. It can be focused on brightening dark spots with Vivier Radiance Serum, or improving the signs of aging with Vivier GrenzCine® Serum which helps to improve skin volume and reduce the appearance of aging.

Acid treatments, or chemical exfoliants are an excellent way to promote cell turnover, improve skin texture, and address issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. These treatments use active ingredients such as glycolic acid (an AHA) or salicylic acid (a BHA) to exfoliate the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the growth of new, healthy ones. Acid treatments can reveal smoother, more radiant skin but should be used with care.

● When to use it? Chemical exfoliants are usually applied after cleansing (and sometimes after toner), once or twice a week, depending on your skin's tolerance and needs. For oily or acne-prone skin, a BHA like salicylic acid can help to clear pores and reduce breakouts. For dry or mature skin, an AHA like glycolic acid is more effective for improving skin texture and brightening.

● How to use it? After cleansing and toning, apply a small amount of the acid treatment evenly over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Always follow with a moisturizer.

● Skip if: You should skip acid treatments if you have very sensitive or compromised skin, as these active ingredients can be too harsh and cause irritation. It’s also important to avoid using acid treatments in conjunction with other exfoliating products like retinoids or physical scrubs on the same day. 

For a gentle but effective treatment, Vivier’s AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cream is an excellent option. It combines both glycolic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA) to smooth the skin’s texture, reduce breakouts, and improve overall skin radiance. For more sensitive skin, a lower-concentration glycolic acid, or enzymatic exfoliating product may be a safer option to prevent irritation.

Reapplying a spot treatment in the evening, especially if it was initially applied in the morning, can be beneficial for stubborn blemishes. Evening application allows the treatment to work uninterrupted overnight, when skin’s natural repair processes are most active. This additional layer of treatment provides a concentrated boost to reduce inflammation and speed up healing, ensuring maximum effectiveness without external factors like makeup, sun exposure, or pollution that can interfere with daytime application.

Using a dedicated eye cream in your evening skin care routine helps to address things like fine lines, dark circles and puffiness, especially when the skin is in its repair phase overnight. 

● When to use it? Use an eye cream every evening to hydrate and repair the under-eye area and address specific concerns like fine lines, puffiness, or dark circles.

● How to use it? Use gentle patting motions to help the cream absorb without tugging at the delicate skin.

● Skip if: You can skip eye cream if you don’t have specific concerns around the eye area, such as puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines. For targeted treatment, Vivier’s Dark Circle Eye Cream is an excellent option. It reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness while smoothing out fine lines, providing a brighter and more rested look.

Retinol is one of the most effective ingredients for boosting cell turnover and addressing signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture. By accelerating skin renewal, retinol helps to smooth the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and fade dark spots. It's a powerful anti-aging ingredient that can make a significant difference when used consistently.

● When to use it? Apply retinol as part of your nighttime skin care routine after serums and before moisturizer. Retinol is best used at night because it makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight. If you’re new to retinol, it’s wise to start with a low concentration (e.g., 0.3%) and build up your tolerance to higher concentrations over time.

● How to use it? Use a pea-sized amount of retinol and apply it evenly to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Start by using it just once or twice a week, then gradually increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance. Always follow retinol with a moisturizer to help soothe and hydrate the skin, reducing potential irritation.

● Skip if: You should skip retinol if you have extremely sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea, as it can aggravate sensitivity. It is also recommended to alternate nights with other strong exfoliating or peeling products in your routine, to avoid over-exfoliation.

For those who have tried retinol or looking for a more advanced treatment, Vivier’s Retinol 1.0% is a great option. It helps improve the appearance of fine lines, skin texture, and tone, while its slow-release formula minimizes irritation.

A night cream or sleep mask is the final step in your evening skin care routine, designed to lock in moisture and help your skin repair itself while you sleep. During the night, your skin undergoes its natural regenerative process, making it the perfect time to use richer, more nourishing products. Using a overnight moisturizer ensures your skin stays hydrated and repaired, so you wake up with soft, refreshed skin.

● When to use it? This product will seal in all the benefits of the serums and treatments you've applied previously and provide a moisture barrier to prevent overnight dehydration. Night creams and sleeping masks are ideal for those with dry or normal skin, while a lightweight moisturizer may be better for oily or combination skin types.

● How to use it? After applying your serums and treatments, take a small amount of overnight moisturizer and apply it evenly over your face and neck.

 ● Skip if: You can skip a separate night cream or sleep mask if your skin already feels sufficiently hydrated from your regular moisturizer. However, if your skin tends to feel tight or dry in the morning, a night cream or mask can make a big difference.

Incorporating the right order of skin care products into your daily routine is essential for maximizing their benefits and achieving healthier, glowing skin. By layering products correctly and adapting your regimen for morning and nighttime needs, you ensure that each product works effectively, providing protection during the day and nourishment at night. Consistency, patience, and understanding your skin’s unique needs will help you get the best results from your skin care routine.