young woman using Nivea Soft Moisturising Cream

How to Build a Skincare Routine: Ordering and Layering

What should a skincare routine include & in what order? Why does layering matter? NIVEA lays out the importance of skincare routines and how to build them for the morning and evening in 6 steps

What's in this article:

woman using nivea skincare
How to Do Skincare

Skincare Routines Matter

A skincare routine is more than just a series of steps, it's a dedicated practice that nurtures your skin and promotes its overall health and radiance. Skin care routines involve a careful selection of products and a specific order of application, working to address your skin's unique needs. 

A well-crafted skincare routine not only helps maintain the skin's natural balance but also offers a moment of self-care. Whether you're aiming for clearer skin, a more youthful appearance or simply a chance to pamper yourself, a consistent skincare routine is key to achieving healthier looking skin.

In this comprehensive guide, NIVEA explores everything you need to know about how to order and layer your skincare products to achieve healthier skin.

What Is A Skin Care Routine?

A skincare routine refers to a structured sequence of steps and products aimed at maintaining and improving the health, appearance, and overall condition of the skin. It involves steps performed daily or regularly to cleanse, treat and protect the skin from various environmental factors and potential skin conditions. 

Typical skincare routine steps include cleansing to remove impurities, applying targeted treatments like serums for specific concerns, moisturising to nourish and adding sun protection to shield against harmful UV rays. 

 

The specific products and steps can vary based on individual skin types, concerns and goals. A well-designed skincare routine not only promotes healthier looking skin but also encourages a sense of self-care and well-being.

Why Follow a Skincare Routine?

5 Benefits of a Consistent Skincare Routine

Skin care routines contribute to the overall health and the appearance of your skin. Here are some key reasons why skin care routines are important:

  1. Maintaining Skin Health: Your skin is the largest organ in your body and serves as a protective barrier against the environment. An effective skin care routine helps maintain the integrity of this barrier, protecting your skin from pollutants, toxins, and harmful UV rays.
  2. Preventing Skin Conditions: Regular skin care can help prevent various skin conditions such as acne, dryness, oiliness, redness, and more. Using the right products and techniques can keep your skin balanced and minimise the risk of developing these issues.
  3. Anti-Aging: A consistent skin care routine can help slow down the signs of ageing. Certain products, like moisturisers and serums, can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, making your skin look more youthful over time.
  4. Boosting Confidence: Taking care of your skin can improve your self-esteem and confidence. When your skin looks and feels healthier, you're more likely to feel good about your appearance.
  5. Long-Term Benefits: Consistency is key in skin care. The benefits of a good skin care routine become more evident over time. While you might not see immediate results, sticking to a routine can lead to significant improvements in the long run.

Skincare Routine Ordering and Layering

Ordering and layering skincare products is essential for maximising their effectiveness and achieving desired skin results.

When layering products it is important to start with lightweight products like cleansers, toners and serums then progress to heavier products like moisturisers to ensure each product can penetrate the skin effectively and provide the intended benefits.

woman using Nivea face cream

How many steps does your skincare routine really need?

Not everyone needs a complicated 10 step routine, as skincare needs can vary based on individual skin types and concerns. A basic 3 step skincare routine consisting of cleansing, moisturising and sun protection can be sufficient for some people. 

Having a longer skincare routine offers more targeted and advanced solutions, addressing specific concerns such as ageing, acne or hyperpigmentation with the use of additional products including serums, exfoliants and masks. 

The choice between having a basic, intermediate or advanced routine depends on individual goals and preferences, with some opting for simplicity and others prioritising a more comprehensive approach to skincare.

Skincare Routine Order

Building a 24 Hour Face Skincare Routine: Steps To Include

Morning and evening face skincare routines serve different purposes and often involve different products to address the specific needs of your skin at different times of the day. Here's a breakdown of a morning and evening skincare routine order, along with how important each step is:

young woman using Nivea face cleanser

Morning Skincare Routine Order:

Step 1: Cleanse

Start your morning skincare routine with a thorough cleanse to remove dirt and impurities, preparing your skin to absorb the nourishing ingredients in your care routine.

Benefits may include: Awakens and refreshes skin, controls excess oil, manages pH, helps skin absorb care products, maintains pore size.

Can I skip cleansing?: Cleansing is essential in any skincare routine, so it should not be skipped. Having thoroughly cleansed skin is the foundation on which you will apply your care products.

Tips: Use a cleanser that suits your skin type, apply gently and avoid scrubbing, use lukewarm water, avoid harsh ingredients such as alcohol, pat your face dry instead of rubbing.

 

Step 2: Tone 

Toning finishes the morning cleansing process by removing final traces of dirt or residue and helping to balance the skin’s pH levels.

Benefits may include: Balances pH levels, removes leftover residues, adds hydration, refines pores and improves complexion, boosts radiance, helps control skin conditions.

Can I skip toning?: Toning is generally beneficial for skin and boosting radiance, however in some situations it is fine to skip. These include: following a minimalist routine, negative skin reactions or if you are using a 2-in-1 cleanser and toner product for step 1.

Tips: Use a toner that suits your skin type and targets any specific concerns, apply by gently patting on with your fingertips or soft cotton pad, avoid toners containing alcohol, avoid overuse (generally more than twice a day).

NIVEA Cleansers and Toners
woman using Nivea serum

Step 3: Serum: 

Serums are lightweight, fast-absorbing and deep penetrating products that offer high concentrations of active ingredients, formulated to target specific skin concerns. They are the super-boost of any beauty routine.

Benefits may include: Faster results than creams alone, customisation to your routine, additional hydration, radiance, firmness or smoothness based upon their formulation.

Can I skip serum?: Skipping serum misses out on a big opportunity to power-up your skincare routine and target any specific concerns. Serum can quite often be the most effective product at achieving desired results. However if you have no concerns or are wanting to stick to a minimalist 3 step routine, you may consider leaving serum out.

Tips: Select a serum that targets your concern, understand what different ingredients do (e.g. Vitamin C for brightening, Hyaluronic Acid for hydrating), allow 1-2 minutes for full absorption, a little amount goes a long way.

NIVEA Serums

Step 4: Eye Cream

Eye creams are specifically formulated to nourish the delicate skin around the eyes, helping to target common concerns such as dark circles, puffiness and crows feet. These can also be used after moisturiser, provided you leave the under eye area clear for application.

Benefits may include: Targeted action on common concerns such as dark circles or eye bags, prevents signs of aging, improved texture and hydration, enhanced makeup application.
        
Can I skip eye cream?: Younger individuals with no specific under eye concerns or those looking to stick to a basic skincare routine may look to skip eye cream. Individuals with oily skin may also find that a regular moisturiser is enough to keep the area hydrated.
        
Tips: Choose an eye cream that targets your concerns, apply by gently tapping with your ring finger avoiding contact too close to the eyeball, start with less and add more if necessary, be patient for results.

NIVEA Eye Creams
woman applying Nivea face cream

Step 5: Moisturiser - Day Cream

Day creams provide essential moisture and hydration throughout the day, helping to keep skin feeling supple and looking its best. They also help to provide daily protection against environmental stressors.

Benefits may include: Moisture, sun protection (if they contain SPF), free radical protection, skin barrier support, makeup base, additional targeted actions based on formulas (anti-age, glow boosting etc.).

Can I skip moisturising?: Moisturising is recommended to be included in even basic skincare routines, it is a cornerstone step and therefore inadvisable to skip. Only those with particularly oily skin may choose to skip and apply a light sunscreen instead, in their case it is still recommended to find a moisturiser formulated for their skin type that can help control excess oil to prevent breakouts.

Tips: Choose a day cream for your skin type and concerns, SPF provides additional protection, apply more generously than serum, allow it time to absorb (particularly if applying makeup), dot all over your face and neck before gently massaging into skin.

NIVEA Day Creams

Step 6: SPF

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is essential to keep skin shielded from harmful UV rays throughout the day that can cause damage. Sunlight is quite often the main cause of many skin concerns, including dark spots and premature ageing - so is essential for maintaining a radiant complexion.
        
Benefits may include: UVA/B protection, prevents sun induced-dark spots, prevents photoaging, maintains skin health, prevents sunburn.
        
Can I skip SPF?: SPF is essential to skin health, even in minimalist routines. It should be applied whenever skin is going to be exposed to sunlight to protect it from damage.

Tips: Aim for at least SPF 30 or higher, apply generously and regularly, check sunscreen expiration dates, avoid the sun during peak hours.

NIVEA Face Sunscreen

Evening Skincare Routine Order:

Step 1: Cleanse

Difference vs. morning: Whilst in the morning you are refreshing and awakening your skin, in the evening you are looking to remove any makeup, sunscreen, dirt or impurities accumulated throughout the day and prepare it for nighttime care products.

Benefits may include: Helps prevent breakouts, enhances care product absorption, promotes cell renewal, supports nighttime repair and regeneration.

Can I skip cleansing?: Similar to the AM routine, it is not recommended to skip cleansing in the evening unless you are following advice from a dermatologist.

Tips: It is popular to double cleanse in the evening, using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser to clean the skin.

young woman using Nivea Cellular Vitamin C serum

Step 2: Tone

Difference vs. morning: Toning in the evening follows a very similar purpose but instead wicks away any final traces of makeup or daily dirt. It can also help to further neutralise daily free radicals.

Benefits may include: Same as AM routine.

Can I skip toning: Same as AM routine.

Tips: Same as AM routine.

 

Step 3: Serum

Difference vs. morning: The purpose of serum is still very similar, however you could consider targeting different concerns in the evening than in the morning.

Benefits may include: Same as AM routine.

Can I skip serum?: Same as AM routine.

Tips: In the evening you may want to look for a serum that is specifically formulated for hydration and overnight repair, those containing Hyaluronic Acid are particularly good at this. Using the same serum in the morning and evening is perfectly fine, however switching them up can help to target different concerns.

Step 4: Spot Treatments

Difference vs. morning: Whilst you could apply these treatments (such as Retinoids for anti-aging or acne treatment) in the morning, these products can sometimes make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which is why they're usually recommended for nighttime use.

Benefits may include: Targeted action, works in conjunction with skins natural repair process, preventative care.

Can I skip spot treatments?: If you have no specific areas of concern or are following advice from a specialist, you may want to skip this stage.

Tips: Introduce treatments slowly, follow packaging directions, apply SPF the next day as some treatments can increase sensitivity.

woman applying Nivea Luminous eye serum

Step 5: Eye Cream: 

Difference vs. morning: Eye cream serves a very similar purpose in the evening routine as it does the morning routine, so you can follow the same advice.

 

Step 6: Moisturiser - Night Cream

Difference vs. morning: Whilst day cream provides support and protection for skin throughout the day, night cream provides overnight nourishment, supporting the natural regeneration and repair process. Night creams often have thicker formulas, focused on intense hydration and skin barrier restoration as opposed to protection.

Benefits may include: Support skins natural regeneration and repair process that occurs whilst you sleep, awake to refreshed skin, overnight moisture needs are met, higher concentration of active ingredients.

Can I skip night cream?: The same as moisturising in the morning, it is generally not recommended to skip in the evening. Skipping can lead to skin becoming dehydrated overnight, whilst you are also missing a chance to support its natural regeneration and repair process.

Tips: Look for a night cream that complements your day cream, combining them both for 24 hour care to keep skin healthy and nourished whilst targeting any specific skin concerns.

NIVEA Night Creams
Nivea Q10 face mask

Additional Skincare Routine Steps

Face Masks: 

These can be worked into your weekly routine to provide targeted benefits for skin. Typically used 1-3 times a week, depending on the needs and goals of your face care routine, face masks come in different varieties including: sheet masks, clay masks, hydrating masks and exfoliating masks.

Benefits may include: The benefits are numerous and depend on the type of mask you are using, typically all will contain a concentrated burst of active ingredients to target specific concerns. They are also a great inclusion for a deep pamper and relaxation session. Regular use can enhance the efficacy of your daily face care routine.

Can I skip masks?: Most people can benefit from the weekly mask treatment, however if your skin is healthy and you are happy with your complexion, you may choose to pass them up.

Tips: Select a mask that complements the goals of your daily routine, apply to cleansed skin, follow packaging instructions, apply in a relaxing setting, put in the fridge for additional refreshment (do consult packaging instructions first, as this may impact the effectiveness the ingredients), massage in excess formula after use or pat away with a cotton pad.

NIVEA Face Masks

Exfoliation:

Depending on your skin type and needs, you should exfoliate as part of your evening face care routine after cleansing 2-3 times a week for a deeper cleanse. This will help to remove any accumulation of dead skin cells and promote cell renewal.

Benefits may include: Skin renewal, clears pores, improved skin tone and texture, reduced likelihood of breakouts, improved efficacy of care products.

Can I skip exfoliation?: It is best to be in the habit of exfoliating at least twice a week to deeply cleanse, prevent clogged pores and a build up of dead skin cells. Those with sensitive skin may exfoliate less often, whereas those with oily skin may exfoliate more often.

Tips: Choose an exfoliant based on your skin needs - whether that be a mechanical scrub or a chemical (AHA or BHA) exfoliant, exfoliate after cleansing, apply gently and avoid excessive rubbing - let the ingredients do the work, rinse off thoroughly.

NIVEA Face Scrubs

NIVEA Curated Skincare Routines for Specific Concerns

Whether you are looking for solutions to wrinkles, pigment spots, sagging skin or blemishes, there is a NIVEA skincare routine for you. Below are 5 simple custom, 4-step routines that each target specific concerns, all product recommendations are suitable for every skin type.

NIVEA Q10 Power Anti-Wrinkle Skincare Routine

NIVEA Q10 Power Anti-Wrinkle Skincare Routine

The NIVEA Q10 Power range contains products formulated to address fine lines and wrinkles, giving you noticeably firmer skin in 14 days. The NIVEA Q10 Power products combine 100% Skin Identical Q10 and Creatine to improve skin's elasticity and firmness.

A skincare routine featuring Q10 Power products is a tried and tested solution to achieve firmer skin whilst reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Nivea Q10 Anti Wrinkle Power

NIVEA Luminous630 Anti-Dark Spot Skincare Routine

NIVEA Luminous630 Anti-Dark Spot Skincare Routine

NIVEA’s Luminous630 range of products have been carefully created after 10 years of meticulous research to provide targeted action against dark spots. The patented Luminous630 ingredient works at a cellular level to rebalance melanin production and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

If you're looking to target dark spots, sun spots, age spots or any other type of pigment spot, a skincare routine that includes Luminous products is what you’re looking for!
Nivea Luminous Anti Spot Serum
NIVEA Luminous630 Range

NIVEA Cellular Expert Lift Advanced Lifting and Restructuring Skincare Routine

NIVEA Cellular Expert Lift Advanced Lifting and Restructuring Skincare Routine

Nivea Cellular Expert Lift face cream

The Cellular Expert Lift range contains an innovative formula specifically designed to boost the skin's Collagen production and redefine facial contours. Products in the range contain Pure Bakuchiol (an alternative to Retinol), Micro and Macro Hyaluronic Acid to provide deep hydration and an anti-age effect. 

If you're looking for a premium anti-age solution to reinvent your skin, make it firmer and reduce lines, you should incorporate Cellular Expert Lift products into your skincare routine.

  • The NIVEA Cellular Expert Lift Anti-Age Day Cream contains carefully selected actives; Pure Bakuchiol to boosts cell’s Collagen production for younger looking skin and Macro and Micro Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate and smooth the skin’s surface whilst penetrating to deeper layers, for a long-lasting, wrinkle reducing and “plumping effect”.
  • The NIVEA Cellular Expert Lift Anti-Age Night Cream 50ml supports the skin to repair damages and regenerate overnight when it's most receptive. Featuring a powerful night balm formula that boosts Collagen and strengthens skin. Also formulated with Pure Bakuchiol, Micro and Macro Hyaluronic Acid.
  • The NIVEA Cellular Expert Lift Sculpting Facial Sheet Mask helps to visibly reduce wrinkles, smoothen texture and improve hydration as it contains Hyaluronic Acid and Bakuchiol. Dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, it offers a gentle and approved approach to skincare. For best results use twice per week.

NIVEA Cellular Expert Filler Advanced Firming and Volumising Skincare Routine

NIVEA Cellular Expert Filler Advanced Firming and Volumising Skincare Routine

Nivea Cellular Filler Serum Essence

The NIVEA Cellular Expert Filler Range contains products formulated with highly potent ingredients designed to supercharge your anti-aging results. It combines the power of Micro and Macro Hyaluronic Acid to help the skin effectively diminish wrinkles and deliver intense hydration. Additionally, the inclusion of Folic Acid promotes the revitalisation of skin cells which helps to restore the skin's natural bounce and resilience. 

A Cellular Expert Filler skincare routine is another premium solution for achieving more youthful skin and addressing anti-aging concerns.

NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Anti-Blemish Routine

NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Anti-Blemish Routine

Nivea Derma Skin Clear Night Exfoliator

If your skin is prone to blemishes and symptoms of acne, try the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear routine. These products are formulated with ingredients such as Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide and Glycolic Acid that have a proven ability to visibility reduce blemishes.

  • Begin with the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel, a cleanser formulated with Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide to deeply cleanse, clear pores and remove excess oil. Suitable for use in your morning and evening routine it helps to effectively reduce blemishes and prevent their reappearance.
  • The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Anti-Blemish Scrub can be used immediately after the cleanser for a deeper clear out and exfoliation of dead skin cells. Also formulated with Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide it helps to unclog pores, refine skin texture and reduce blackheads and whiteheads. Use 2-3 times a week in your evening routine.
  • Round off cleansing with the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Toner to rebalance skin, control oiliness and add hydration without clogging pores. Suitable for daily use in both your morning and evening routine, formulated with Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide.
  • The hero of this anti-blemish routine is the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Chemical Exfoliator, formulated with Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide. For daily use at the end of your evening routine and to be left on overnight it helps to clear, purify and refine your complexion in 7 days.
  • In the morning, replace the Exfoliator with the NIVEA SUN UV Face Specialist Derma Blemish Control SPF50+ at the end of the routine to keep your skin shielded from UV rays during the day. Formulated for oily and blemish prone skin it helps to prevent breakouts, does not clog pores and protects against premature skin aging.

Skincare routine for men and women

Skincare routines are essential for both men and women in achieving healthier looking and radiant skin. While there are some commonalities in skincare routine steps, such as cleansing, moisturising and sun protection, there can also be individual differences based on skin type, concerns and personal preferences. 

 

Men's skincare routines might take into account factors like shaving and facial hair care, while women's routines may include additional steps like makeup removal. Regardless of gender, it is important to understand your skin needs and choose products that address those factors.

 

Regularity is vital, as consistent skincare practices lead to long-term benefits. Ultimately, regardless of your gender, a well-crafted skincare routine is an investment in both self-care and skin health.

man and woman smiling

A Note About Skincare Routines for Different Skin Type

Where appropriate, skincare routine steps can be tailored to different skin types. This personalised approach ensures that the products and treatments chosen align with each individual's unique needs, resulting in the best possible outcomes for their skin health and appearance. Products used in the NIVEA curated routines are suitable for all skin types.

A Note About Skincare Routines for Different Skin Type

Oily Skin

People with oily skin often struggle with excess sebum production, which can lead to a shiny and greasy appearance. To address this, incorporating a skincare routine centred around gentle foaming cleansers can effectively remove excess oil and impurities without over-drying the skin. Complementing this with lightweight, oil-free moisturisers ensures essential hydration without exacerbating oiliness, ultimately promoting a more balanced and matte complexion.

Dry Skin

To combat dry skin effectively, it's essential to incorporate a skincare routine that includes gentle, nourishing cleansers with creamy textures. These cleansers work to remove impurities while also helping to maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier. Pairing these cleansers with rich moisturisers containing ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid can provide benefits by replenishing the skin's moisture and locking it in, ultimately leading to smoother, more supple and hydrated skin.

Sensitive Skin

To cater to sensitive skin, adopting a minimalistic approach can be beneficial. This entails opting for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic skincare products, which help in preventing redness and irritation. These gentle formulations are designed to soothe and nourish sensitive skin types, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and promoting a calmer, healthier complexion.

Acne Prone

Acne-prone skin benefits from a thoughtful approach that begins with a gentle cleanser and non-comedogenic products, as this helps manage breakouts without causing excessive dryness. Incorporating targeted treatments like Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide for spot treatment can be particularly beneficial in addressing acne blemishes effectively.

Teenagers, who are often prone to acne during crucial developmental stages like their early teens, should establish and maintain a teenage skincare routine. This not only helps foster good skincare habits but also plays a vital role in managing acne and promoting healthier skin throughout this important phase of their life.

Combination skin

By addressing the unique requirements of oily and dry areas, you can effectively manage excess production in the T-Zone area while nourishing and hydrating the drier areas of your skin. To achieve this balance, incorporate a gentle cleansing routine, targeted treatments like exfoliation and serums and suitable moisturisers for each area.

Regardless of your skin type, sunscreen is a universal must to shield the skin from UV damage. Consulting a dermatologist can provide personalised guidance for optimal results.

Summary

Build Your Own Routine

Skincare routines are essential for achieving healthier and radiant looking skin regardless of your gender. It's important to tailor your skincare to your unique skin type, concerns and preferences. 

Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, combination or acne-prone skin, understanding the specific needs of your skin allows you to select the right products and steps for optimal results. 

Be consistent and patient with experimentation when waiting for results. If you are experiencing problems with your skin, don't hesitate to consult a dermatologist or your GP for more guidance. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Skincare Routines

Why do I need a skincare routine?

A skincare routine is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your skin. It helps address specific concerns, prevent issues like acne or premature ageing, and promotes overall skin well-being.

What should a basic skincare routine cover?

At minimum, a basic skincare routine should include cleansing, moisturising and SPF.

How do I determine my skin type?

Your skin type can be classified as normal, oily, dry, combination, or sensitive. You can determine your skin type based on factors like oiliness, dryness, and sensitivity. Consulting a dermatologist can also help accurately identify your skin type.

Can I use the same products day and night?

While some products can be used in both your morning and evening routines, certain treatments like Retinol or exfoliants are best suited for nighttime use due to increased sensitivity to sunlight.

What's the difference between morning and evening routines?

Morning routines focus on protecting your skin from environmental factors, while evening routines prioritise repair and rejuvenation. Sunscreen is a crucial step in the morning to shield against UV damage.

Can I skip steps in my skincare routine?

While some steps can be personalised based on your needs, cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection are fundamental and should not be skipped. Tailor your routine, but ensure you maintain these core steps.

Can men and women follow the same skincare routine?

Skincare routines can be similar for men and women, but there might be variations due to factors like facial hair and hormonal differences. However, the basic principles of cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection apply to all.

How long does it take to see results from a skincare routine?

Visible results from a skincare routine can take time, usually a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the products used and individual skin concerns. Consistency is key.

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