My Morning Skincare Routine: How to Properly Layer Your Products for Glowing Skin
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by skincare—get this product, buy that serum, try this exfoliant—you’re not alone. What many people don’t explain is how to properly layer products so they actually work the way they’re supposed to.
In today’s post, I’m breaking down my full morning skincare routine, why I use each product, and how layering can make or break your results.
1. Cleanser: My Ride-or-Die Noxzema
I’ve been using Noxzema since middle school, and as someone who wears a lot of makeup and sometimes struggles to fully remove it, a cleansing balm-type formula is a must.
Why I Love It
Deep-cleaning: I don’t feel the need to double-cleanse because it really gets into my pores.
Eucalyptus oil gives that cooling, “it’s working!” sensation while soothing the skin.
Linseed oil helps heal and reduce inflammation.
Glycerin acts as a humectant, pulling moisture into the skin—especially helpful when I cleanse right after a steamy shower.
A Note for Sensitive Skin
Noxzema does contain stearic acid, which can irritate sensitive skin. Stearic acid is derived from tallow (yes, like the beef-tallow trend), and while it works well for combination skin like mine, it might not suit everyone.
2. Toner: Resetting the Skin
Your toner shouldn’t just be a swipe-and-go product. I always do two layers:
Layer 1: Removes leftover cleanser residue
Layer 2: Resets the skin’s pH and fully preps it for serums
My toner includes rose water and hyaluronic acid, both of which help hydrate and soothe.
Why Hyaluronic Acid Is Important
Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in your skin and functions like a protective moisture barrier. Adding more through toner and serums helps keep your skin hydrated, plump, and ready to absorb the rest of your routine.
3. Serums: Brightening First, Hydration Second
After my toner, I always go in with my brightening serum first. This one contains active ingredients that I want to penetrate deeply.
Important:
I let my first serum fully dry before applying my hyaluronic acid serum. This prevents the formulas from mixing and ensures each product performs on its own.
4. Exfoliant (When Needed)
If I exfoliate that day, I like using The Ordinary Peeling Solution—the viral AHA/BHA exfoliant you’ve seen everywhere.
How I Use It
Only once per week right now
Will increase to twice weekly in winter when UV exposure is lower
Always use after cleansing and before toner/serums
Since it’s so strong, you don’t want to overuse it—especially during sunny months, when UV rays can undo the progress you’re trying to make.
5. Moisturizer: Thick, Hydrating, and Acne-Fighting
After applying multiple active products, I lock everything in with a thick moisturizer. I love Clean & Clear because it contains salicylic acid, which:
Helps control breakouts
Supports skin when it’s purging after exfoliation
Prevents clogged pores from resurfacing
You can also use a moisturizer with benzoyl peroxide if acne is a bigger concern for you.
6. Sunscreen: Non-Negotiable
No matter how good your routine is, you must protect your skin—especially when using:
AHAs
BHAs
Brightening serums
Hyaluronic acid
Any resurfacing products
I apply SPF 50 and reapply at least twice a day. Most skin damage comes from the sun, and sunscreen essentially acts as a shield that protects all the work your skincare is doing.
