So, you’ve done your research and found the perfect skincare products to use – but if you don’t apply them correctly you may as well be slapping on wallpaper paste. Using the right products in the correct order makes a world of difference. Doing so allows each product to deliver the best results. It can also prevent any negative interactions between different ingredients if you’ve invested in some fabulous skincare items but are not achieving that promised rejuvenated glow, read on. Before you throw them in the trash and type angrily into the comments page, double-check. It may be a simple case of an incorrect application that stands between you and a filter-free photo gallery.

Here’s the correct order in which you should be applying your products:

1. Cleanse: Try Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel, £46, www.cultbeauty.com

First of all, you need clean skin. Whether you prefer a balm, foam, gel, or oil cleanser, make sure you choose the most beneficial one for your skin type, apply it, massage it into the skin and then rinse away. Cleansing removes makeup debris and prepares your skin for the following steps. We love Oskia’s Renaissance Cleansing Gel – it contains a myriad of mature skin-loving ingredients and leaves you with a seriously smooth complexion. We’re talking dream-worthy softness!

2. Tone: Try Paula’s Choice, http://www.paulaschoice.co.uk

Next, apply your toner. Toners are great pH balancers that prepare your skin for other skincare products. Depending on your skin concerns, your toner can also tackle irksome skin issues too. Paula’s Choice has a range of incredible toners that alleviate all manner of skin issues. Many people (including yours truly) skipped the toner for years. Big mistake. A good one achieves instant skin upgrade.

3. Essence And (Or) Serum: Try Repechage Vita Cura Opti-Lift Serum, $70, www.repechage.com

Ah, the age-old question that blights us all: To essence, or not to essence? Lightweight, hydrating and plumping formulas, watery essences are, without doubt, a veritable skincare godsend and a perfect prep party piece in your skincare routine.

Serums are not without their superhero benefits either. Concentrated serums usually contain antioxidants, peptides, and vitamin C to deliver a more targeted treatment for specific skin concerns. Those with aging, dehydrated, dull skin would greatly benefit from using both a serum and an essence.

Whether or not you should use a serum and an essence together in your skincare routine depends on your individual needs and preferences. Essences mainly boost skin hydration, while serums offer essential nourishment. However, using both products may be unnecessary if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Instead, you should focus on using a serum that targets your specific concerns and skip the essence altogether.

Essences and serums should be applied both am and pm. If you use both products, apply the essence, followed by your chosen facial oil or serum. In both instances, apply a few drops to the face and neck, massaging with your fingertips to promote deeper absorption. Alternatively, if you are lucky enough to own a Reduit Boost, this clever little device enables maximum absorption of your chosen active ingredients.

3. Eye Cream: Try Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Line Erasing Eye Cream, £52 (15ml), www.lookfantastic.com

Think of eye cream as your ‘never go without’ product. It is a vital weapon to keep in your anti-ageing skin arsenal. The eye area is very delicate, thus requiring special attention. Eye creams are specifically formulated to target concerns such as dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines. Always opt for high-quality products that combine key proven actives, like peptides. Pat a little eye cream to your under-eye area.

4. Moisturiser: Try Desert Harvest’s Aloe Renew, $27, www.desertharvest.com

Moisturisers are essential for keeping the skin hydrated and protecting it from environmental damage. Choose your fave moisturiser and gently apply. Packed to the brim with proven regenerative and repairing properties, we love Desert Harvest’s Aloe Renew!

5. Sunscreen

Finally, always finish off your skincare routine with sunscreen. Sun damage is one of the main instigators of premature aging, so you must use an SPF. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or more. And apply it liberally, everywhere!

Nightly Routine

One priceless piece of advice is NEVER to skip your nighttime skincare routine. Applying key products before your slumber enables optimal regenerative assistance for your skin. With minimal effort and continued use, the benefits will skyrocket. Good morning dawn chorus, and hello, beautifully radiant skin!
Your nightly skincare routine should follow the same ritual minus the SPF.

By following this order, you can ensure that each product can penetrate the skin effectively and that you achieve incredible results. Always choose products appropriate for your skin type, stick to the routine like clockwork and very soon you’ll have a complexion fit for a goddess!

For more reading inspo, “All-Natural Skin Regeneration Doesn’t Come Better Than This.”