Are you constantly confused about when or in what order to apply your serums? Want to layer your serums, but don't know how? Well, you're not alone. Layering your serums can be confusing, but there are some simple rules you can follow to make it easier:

1. Always apply serums after cleansed and exfoliated skin

Serums should always be the first products that touch your skin after cleansing in order to get the best absorption.

Do not get in the habit of applying your moisturiser before a serum, as thicker creams and oils create a coating and preventative layer over your skin. This interrupts the absorption process to the inner layers of your skin.

2. When applying your serums, follow the consistency and texture rule 

Light-weight serums, lighter texture serums, and water-based serums are to be applied first, followed by your heavier serums/creams and oils.

If you have multiple light-weight serums, always apply the serum that you want to target your skin concerns the most, first. Then follow with your other serums.

3. Two or three Serums at a time should be enough

There is no rule to how many serums you can layer, but a good number is always two to three at once.

4. Don't mix serums, just layer one after the other

Always make sure the first serum is entirely absorbed into the skin to receive the full potent effect of its ingredients. Same with your second and third serum.

5. Everyone can benefit from layering serums

Hydration, pigmentation, ageing, acne, sensitivity... Regardless of the skin concern you aim to treat, you will benefit from layering serums.

The ingredients in serums can specifically increase your results so you can achieve a healthier, more radiant skin.

6. The layering of serums is better at night

At night, your body and skin go through the repairing and rejuvenation stage, so this is the best time to layer your serums!

Serums: Morning vs. Nighttime

The serums that can only be used at night are Vitamin A and some cocktail serums of AHA's and BHA's.

The serums that are best utilised in the morning are Vitamin C and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3). Remember to ALWAYS follow with adequate sun protection.

Peptides and anti-oxidant serums can be applied either morning or night, but in this case, it's better to consult your Skin Therapist or product brand to know when.

If you would like to consult with me or one of our Skin Therapists to make sure you are layering your serums correctly, click here for a Complimentary Skin Consult.

Here are some of my favourite serums, that I use on my own skin:

About The Author

My name is Sari Pols,

I have been in the skin care industry for over 15 years. My passion lies in ‘Health’. Health for the skin and body. My philosophy is if we have a good well being on the inside, then it shows our vitality on the outside.

I have furthered my knowledge in Skin Anatomy, Skin Concerns and Fitness. I am a true believer in how to make my clients feel their best both inside and out. My emphasis is on guiding my clients through their personal journey of skin concerns and conditions. I do not like to bandaid a concern or condition but want to get down to the root of the cause. I aim to give personalised consultations with treatment and correct prescribed skin products.