The Ultimate Skin Care Routine Order: A Step-by-Step Guide For Radiant Skin

Your skin care routine shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. Still wondering what comes first, toner or moisturizer? You’re not alone. With so many products and steps out there, figuring out the right skincare steps in order can be confusing, but it matters more than you think. The way you layer your products could be the reason your glow-up goals haven’t quite kicked in.

So, how do you master the proper skin care routine order? Let’s break it down and spotlight must-have products from Sephine’s, your go-to for skincare that actually works—now on 30% off for a limited time.

1. Why The Right Skin Care Routine Order Matters

Sephine's Melazero 2.0 Glow Kit

The order in which you apply your skincare is more than just a habit. Applying skincare is also about maximizing ingredient absorption and getting results. 

Skipping steps or applying them in the wrong order can waste product, clog pores, or even cancel out active ingredients. Think of it like layering clothes: the wrong order can leave you exposed or overheated.

When followed properly, a simple skin care routine can help:

• Improve skin texture
• Reduce dark spots, fine lines, and dullness
• Support hydration and barrier repair
• Prevent sun damaged skin and long-term issues like skin cancers
  

2. Step-by-Step Skin Care Routine: Day Vs Night

Your morning skin care routine should focus on protection, while your night face routine should focus on repair. The basic flow remains the same:

Morning Skincare Routine Steps:

1. Cleanser
2. Toner
3. Serum
4. Moisturizer
5. Sunscreen
   

Night Skin Care Routine:

1. Cleanser
   
2. Toner
   
3. Essence (optional)
4. Serum
   
5. Moisturizer
   
6. Eye cream or spot treatments

Cleanser – Start Fresh

Always cleanse your face before layering any products. This step removes impurities, makeup, oil, and dirt, prepping your skin for everything else.

Sephine’s Hydrating Bubble Cleanser is a gentle yet effective pick for your AM/PM routine. It foams up to clean deeply without stripping, making it perfect for those aiming to remove dead skin and refresh tired skin.

Now ₱455 (from ₱650) — 30% off!

Toner – Balance and Prime

Still wondering, "do you use cleanser or toner first?" You cleanse first, always. Toner comes next to balance pH and prep the skin to absorb serums and moisturizers.

Sephine’s Melazero Toner is packed with brightening and hydrating ingredients like Melazero, niacinamide, and adenosine. It’s your answer to dullness and helps even out tone over time.

Now ₱735 (from ₱1,050) — 30% off!

Serum – Targeted Treatment

Still wondering serum or cream first? The answer is serum before moisturizer. Serums are potent and absorb quickly, so they go on bare skin.

Try Sephine’s Melazero Serum, formulated to reduce dark spots, improve tone, and combat fine line and wrinkle concerns. It’s the heavy lifter in your routine.

Now ₱875 (from ₱1,250) — 30% off!

Need the complete set? The Melazero Glow Kit includes all three: toner, serum, cream, and sunscreen!

Now ₱3,185 (from ₱4,550) — Save ₱1,365!

Moisturizer – Locking in Moisture

Moisturizers seal everything in and protect your skin barrier. They work best after serum, answering the popular skincare question: “what to put first, serum or moisturizer?” Serum first, always.

The Melazero Cream is your go-to for skin hydrating results. With a light yet nourishing texture, this cream is perfect for both AM and PM routines. It works well for all skin types and supports active repair while you sleep.

Now ₱875 (from ₱1,250) — 30% off!

(Morning Only): Sunscreen – Daily Protection is a Must

If you’ve washed your face, used toner and serum, and moisturized, your skin is primed. Now it’s time to apply sunscreen. No matter the weather, this step protects your skin from premature aging, sun damaged skin, and more serious risks like skin cancers.

Sephine’s Moisturizing Melazero Sunscreen offers SPF 50 PA++++ protection from UVA and UVB rays. With milk protein, goat milk extract, and titanium dioxide as an active ingredient, it defends, hydrates, and brightens without feeling greasy.

Now ₱700 (from ₱1,000) — 30% off!

Pro tip: Use small amounts at first and reapply throughout the day if exposed to the sun.

3. The Correct Order of Skin Care – Explained

Let’s review the skincare sequence with everything you've just learned:

Morning Face Routine:

1. Cleanser: Hydrating Bubble Cleanser
2. Toner: Melazero Toner
3. Serum: Melazero Serum
4. Moisturizer: Melazero Cream
5. Sunscreen: Moisturizing Melazero Sunscreen
   

Night Skin Care:

1. Cleanser (double cleanse if needed)
   
2. Toner
3. Serum
   
4. Moisturizer
   
5. Optional: Eye cream, masks
   

Remember: toner or serum first? Always toner, then serum. What should I put first, toner or moisturizer? Toner comes first. And yes, the debate of which to apply first, serum or moisturizer always lands on serum!

Skincare Extras (Optional But Helpful)

• Vitamin C serum: Brightens and protects (best used in the morning before SPF)
• Eye creams: Target puffiness and dark circles
• Sheet masks: Boost hydration and help lock in moisture
• Fragrance free options: Better for sensitive skin types

For enhanced hydration, consider Sephine’s Aloe Vera Soothing Gel or Snail Mucin Mask — both on sale for ₱196 and ₱455.

How to Apply Skincare Like a Pro

Here’s how to take proper care of your face with optimal absorption:

1. Go from thinnest to thickest texture (except SPF, which always goes last in the morning).
2. Press or pat products into the skin rather than rubbing.
3. Allow 30–60 seconds between layers.
4. Don’t overdo it. Stick to the essentials for a basic skincare routine.
5. Consult a board certified dermatologist for persistent skin concerns.

4. Why We Recommend Sephine’s Melazero Line

Sephine's Melazero 2.0 Glow Kit

If you’re trying to fade dark spots, improve glow, or simplify your routine, Sephine’s offers everything you need.

 

Melazero Glow Kit – Now ₱3,185 from ₱4,550

Includes:

1. Melazero Toner
2. Melazero Serum
3. Melazero Cream
4. Melazero Sunscreen
   

Each product is formulated with active ingredients designed to deliver visible, safe results. All Sephine’s skincare is formulated to be FDA-compliant, dermatologist-tested, and ideal for Filipino skin types.

Final Thoughts: Get Your Skincare In Order

Don’t let product confusion hold your skin back. Mastering your skin care routine order is key to seeing real improvements from brighter tone to smoother texture and better protection. Just remember:

• Start with a clean face
• Follow the correct order of skin care
• Choose products that are designed to work together

And while you’re at it, take advantage of Sephine’s 30% off sale to grab your full routine at a discount.

The best glow-up is the one you actually stick to!

5. Frequently Asked Questions: Skin Care Routine Order

What comes first—cleanser or toner?

Always use cleanser first, then toner. Cleansing removes dirt, oil, and impurities, while toner preps the skin for better absorption of active ingredients. Start with Sephine’s Hydrating Bubble Cleanser, then follow with the Melazero Toner.

Should I use serum before moisturizer?

Yes! Serums go on before moisturizers. They contain concentrated active ingredients that need to penetrate deeply. After applying Melazero Serum, lock it in with the Melazero Cream.

Do I need both toner and serum?

For most skin types, yes. Toner balances the skin’s pH and preps it, while serum targets specific concerns like dark spots or fine lines. For a streamlined but effective regimen, use both especially with the Melazero Glow Kit, which includes toner, serum, and more.

Can I skip moisturizer if I have oily skin?

No. Even oily skin needs hydration to prevent overproduction of sebum. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic cream like Melazero Cream to keep your skin balanced and moisturized.

What is the correct morning skincare routine?

Your morning skin care routine steps should follow this order: Cleanser, Toner, Serum, Moisturizer, Apply sunscreen (Never skip this—Sephine’s Moisturizing Melazero Sunscreen offers SPF 50 PA++++ protection!)

Should I double cleanse every night?

If you wear makeup, sunscreen, or live in a polluted area, double cleanse at night. Start with an oil-based cleanser, then follow up with a gentle water-based option like Sephine’s Hydrating Bubble Cleanser.

Is sunscreen really necessary if I stay indoors?

Yes. UVA rays can penetrate glass and cause sun damaged skin even indoors. Daily sunscreen is crucial to prevent premature aging and skin cancers. Sephine’s Melazero Sunscreen is lightweight and hydrating, perfect for indoor or outdoor protection.

How long should I wait between skincare steps?

Wait around 30–60 seconds between each step to let products absorb properly. You don’t need to overdo it—just make sure your skin feels dry to the touch before applying the next product.

Can I mix and match products from different brands?

Yes, but make sure the formulations are compatible and don’t irritate your skin. If you want a routine that’s already designed to work well together, Sephine’s Melazero Glow Kit takes the guesswork out of it.

I’m new to skincare. What’s a simple skin care routine to start with?

A great basic skincare routine is: Cleanser (AM/PM), Toner (AM/PM), Serum (AM/PM), Moisturizer (AM/PM), Sunscreen (AM only). You can find all five in Sephine’s product line, and they’re 30% off right now—perfect for beginners looking to build a complete routine without breaking the bank.

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Written by Tina Macaraeg

She has one cat, two dogs, and a collection of self-help books. She is learning to drive. She talks about taking her mom, boyfriend, and pets to watch sunsets by the beach, a place she mentions as her ideal spot to retire. Currently, she spends her time working, reading, and continuing with her daily routine.