A skincare routine can have as few as 3 to as many as 10 products. But what matters more than the number, is the order in which you apply the products. Because for the products to have any effect on your skin, they have to be able to penetrate the skin properly, and this can only be achieved if the products are layered on according to their viscosity. 

1. Cleanser

Your skin is put through various situations everyday. Getting rid of all the impurities that’s been collecting on the skin with a cleanser will give you a fresh and clean slate to layer on products that will seep into your skin for better efficacy. Try to look for a cleanser with a low or neutral pH, as these are the least irritating for your skin, or when in doubt, just look for a cleanser that is made for your specific skin type. 

     2. Toner

Toners are meant to remove any lingering dirt on your skin after cleansing. They also hydrate your skin, leaving your face fresh and clean. While the primary purpose of a toner is restoring hydration and balance to the skin, they can have the added benefit of tightening pores and reducing their appearance. Although it is typically astringents that contain alcohol, and not toners, it can be beneficial to ensure your toner is alcohol-free, as alcohol can irritate the skin. 

    3.Serum

Serums are a great addition to your skincare routine as they are a concentration of specific ingredients. Serums tackle specific skin conditions such as dryness or oiliness, dark spots, ageing, etc. The serum your skincare routine calls for will depend on the issues your skin is facing. For example, dry skin can benefit from a hyaluronic acid serum. Vitamin C and Niacinamide serums are the go-to for pigmentation and dark spots. Similarly, find the main problem with your skin and there will be a serum to combat it. 

     4. Eye Cream

The skin around your eyes tend to be the most sensitive and are often the biggest giveaways when you're tired. Since the skin under your eyes are also thinner, they are typically the first to show signs of ageing. Using an eye cream early on can help push off the onset of wrinkles, fine lines and discoloration.

       5. Face Mask

Face masks provide the skin with an instant boost, however it is recommended that you limit their use to around twice weekly. Excessive use of face masks can strip the face of its natural barrier. Akin to other skincare products, face masks come in an extensive variety, targeting specific skin problems. 

     6. Moisturizer 

Moisturizer should be the last step in your skincare routine as it helps to seal in all the products used before while also adding a layer of, no prizes for guessing, moisturization. The protective barrier that moisturizer forms allows the active ingredients in the products to work to their best capacity. Moisturizers range from heavy to light, with heavy suited for dry skin and light moisturizers working best on oily skin. However, even if you have dry skin, ensure the moisturizer is non-comedogenic so that it does not clog pores.