Skincare Application Order / Routine Order / Thin to Thick
The principle that skincare products should be applied in order of ascending molecular weight and texture — thinnest/lightest to thickest/richest — to maximise penetration of active ingredients and minimise film formation that blocks absorption. The general order: cleanser → toner/essence → serum(s) → eye cream → moisturiser → oil (PM) → SPF (AM). Actives with critical pH requirements (AHA, BHA, Vitamin C) should be applied closest to clean skin before any buffering products.
The "thin to thick" rule has practical limits: if a product is applied before skin has dried from the previous step, it will mix with or dilute the previous product. Waiting 30–60 seconds between steps allows each product to form a light film and partially absorb. Oils always go after water-based products as they cannot penetrate an oily film.
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