By applying skincare products in the correct sequence, each ingredient stands a greater opportunity of penetrating into the skin and performing their functions, making the skin healthier and more radiant. The easiest formula is to start with the lightest textures and continue with the heaviest ones to make sure that the light formulas are absorbed and richer creams cover everything.

Step 1: Begin with a Gentle Cleanser

Having a clean skin is a beginning of every routine. Apply a light, sulphate-free cleanser which gets rid of sweat, oil, and dirt, but does not leave the skin without its natural defence. To make a herbal routine, seek calming ingredients such as aloe vera, neem, green tea or chamomile, to stressfully relieve the skin and refresh it during cleansing.

When using makeup or heavy sun protection, then you can triple clean in the evening using a light oil cleanser, and then use your usual face cleanser to get an even greater level of clarity.

Step 2: Tone and Prep the Skin

Once cleansed, apply a hydrating toner or mist to restore the pH and prepare the skin to the following steps. Rose water, cucumber, witch hazel or tulsi herbal toners refine the pores, add a layer of moisture and serums penetrate evenly.

Instead of rubbing, press the toner on the skin using the palm or a cotton pad. This maintains the skin cool and increases absorption.

Step 3: Apply Targeted Serums

Serums are the “treatment” step of your routine and usually have the lightest, most concentrated textures. Apply water-based serums first, such as hydrating or brightening formulas rich in hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, licorice, or botanical extracts.

When applying multiple serums, begin with the lightest consistency serum and with the formula that addresses your primary issue, such as dark spots or fine lines. Give a minute break between each layer to ensure all the products are absorbed better and do not form piles on the skin.

Step 4: Eye Cream and Spot Treatments

The delicate area under-eye zone has products that are specific to it. After serums, apply a little eye cream, which should be tapped with your ring finger and not pulled by your index finger as this is a delicate skin. Find natural sources of water, lightening agents like aloe, vitamin E or caffeine.

When you use spot treatments on blemishes or pigmentation, you should apply these only to specific areas and then put on the sunscreen or moisturizer which is active so that the ingredients can be applied where they are needed most.

Step 5: Seal with Moisturizer (and SPF in the Day)

Lock them after the treatments are made with an appropriate moisturizer. The texture of creams and lotions is thicker and assists in preserving moisture and sustaining the skin barrier. In a herbal routine, select formulas containing plant oils such as jojoba, almond or olive, mixed with shea butter, aloe, or calendula in the end.

Never forget a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the last step in the daytime to protect the skin against UV damage and dark spots and premature ageing. During the night, you can apply a bit more cream or facial oil on top (the last step) to nourish and repair when you are asleep.