Skin Care 101: The Correct Order for Maximum Results

Skincare is vital for maintaining the health of our body’s largest organ — the skin. A proper routine protects against environmental stressors, UV damage, bacteria, and infections.

Using great skincare products is important; however, the order in which you apply them is what truly makes them effective.

Here’s your step-by-step guide.

Pro Tip

Always apply products from thinnest to thickest. Protect in the morning. Repair at night.

Step 1: Cleanse Your Skin

Always begin your routine with clean skin.

Cleansing removes dirt, excess oil, makeup, and sunscreen so your skincare products can properly absorb and perform. Choose a cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type.

Suggestions:

Anya & Aidin Hydroxyacid Foamy Wash is an excellent option for your nighttime routine. This wash contains key ingredients like lactic acid and salicylic acid to gently remove oil and debris without over-drying the skin. Hydroxyacid Foamy Cleanser – Pacific Coast Skincare

Anya & Aidin Antioxidant Gel Cleanser is ideal for all skin types. Formulated with vitamins C and E, it helps combat environmental stressors while the foaming gel base removes oil and impurities — leaving your skin clean yet hydrated. Antioxidant Gel Cleanser – Pacific Coast Skincare

Anya & Aidin Sulfa Clear is a treatment cleanser that effectively removes dirt and debris while reducing redness and minimizing the appearance of pores. Its sulfa-based formula helps unclog pores, reduce bacteria, and calm inflammation associated with acne, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis. SulfaClear – Pacific Coast Skincare

Step 2: Serum

Serums are lightweight and packed with concentrated active ingredients. Because they are your thinnest and most potent products, they should be applied immediately after cleansing.

Allow your serum to absorb for 30–60 seconds before moving on to the next step.

Suggestions:

Anya & Aidin Vitamin C, E & Ferulic Serum is essential for your morning routine. This powerful antioxidant blend protects against environmental stressors, brightens the skin, and helps stimulate collagen production. Vitamin C, E & Ferulic Serum – Pacific Coast Skincare

Anya & Aidin Nighttime Retinol Serum is ideal for your evening routine. Retinol improves the overall health and appearance of the skin. This serum-based formula delivers the benefits of vitamin A while minimizing dryness and flaking. Nighttime Retinol Serum – Pacific Coast Skincare

Anya & Aidin Hyaluronic Peptide Serum is suitable for all skin types, especially during colder months. Hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates, helping to plump and firm the skin while improving overall moisture levels. Hyaluronic Peptide Serum – Pacific Coast Skincare

Step 3: Prescription or Treatment Medications

Prescription medications should be applied after your serums to maximize effectiveness — unless otherwise directed by your provider.

Always follow your provider’s instructions regarding frequency and amount.

Step 4: Moisturizer

Moisturizer is essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. It helps lock in hydration and soothe the skin after applying active ingredients.

Even if you are acne-prone or have oily skin, moisturizing is still important. The key is choosing a non-comedogenic formula that won’t clog pores.

Suggestions:

Anya & Aidin Hylacream is a versatile moisturizer suitable for all skin types. It contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane to reduce water loss and maintain natural moisture levels. Ceramides help smooth, plump, and strengthen the skin barrier. This formula is non-comedogenic. HylaCream Moisturizer – Pacific Coast Skincare

Step 5: Sunscreen (Morning Only)

This is the most important step in your morning routine.

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. Be sure to apply sunscreen to your face, neck, and any exposed areas.

Suggestion:

Anya & Aidin Clear Mineral Defense SPF 40 is a mineral sunscreen formulated with antioxidants and barrier-supporting lipids to provide both protection and hydration. Clear Mineral Defense

Step 6: Makeup

Makeup should always be the final step in your routine — including primer.

Allow your skincare products to fully absorb before applying makeup to ensure smooth application and maximum benefit from your skincare.

Suggestion:

Anya & Aidin Tinted Mineral Defense is a great alternative to foundation. It provides the same protective benefits as the Clear Mineral Defense with the added advantage of lightweight coverage. Tinted Mineral Defense – Pacific Coast Skincare

Morning vs. Night Routine

Morning: Cleanser → Serum → Medication (if directed in the morning) → Moisturizer → Sunscreen → Makeup

Night: Cleanser → Serum → Medication (if directed at night) → Moisturizer

(No sunscreen needed at night.)

Pro Tip

Always apply products from thinnest to thickest.

Protect in the morning. Repair at night.