How to Build a Skincare Routine with Face Serums and Moisturizers

Quick answer

To build an effective skincare routine, apply your face serum before your moisturizer. Start with cleansing, then layer a serum suited to your skin needs, and finish with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. For dry skin, choose a richer formula with nourishing botanicals.

Building a skincare routine doesn't have to be complicated. The key is understanding the order of your products, especially when it comes to serums and moisturizers. A simple routine—cleanse, treat, moisturize—can make a noticeable difference in how your skin looks and feels.

Whether you're new to skincare or just want to refine your current steps, this guide will walk you through the process. You'll learn how to layer serum and moisturizer correctly, what to look for in a face moisturizer for dry skin, and how to adapt your routine for glowing skin.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Canvas

Cleansing is the first and most important step in any skincare routine. It removes dirt, oil, and impurities that can block the absorption of your serum and moisturizer. Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type—whether that's a foaming wash for oily skin or a creamy formula for dry skin.

A common mistake is skipping this step or using a cleanser that strips your skin. If your skin feels tight after washing, your cleanser might be too harsh. Switch to a mild, tear-free option that cleanses without overdrying, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Checkpoint: Your skin should feel clean but not stripped. If it feels tight or dry, your cleanser may be too harsh.

Step 2: Apply Your Face Serum

Serums are concentrated treatments that target specific concerns like hydration, brightening, or fine lines. They have smaller molecules than moisturizers, so they can penetrate deeper. That's why they should go on before your moisturizer—to deliver active ingredients where they're needed most.

When applying serum, use a few drops and press it gently into your skin rather than rubbing. This helps absorption and avoids unnecessary friction. Wait a minute or two for the serum to sink in before moving to the next step.

Common mistake: Applying serum on dry skin or over a thick moisturizer. Always apply serum to clean, slightly damp skin for better absorption.

Checkpoint: Your skin should feel hydrated and slightly tacky after serum application. If it feels dry, you may need a more hydrating formula.

Step 3: Lock It In with a Moisturizer

Moisturizers create a protective barrier that seals in the serum and prevents water loss. For dry skin, look for a richer formula with ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or naturally-derived botanicals. A good face moisturizer for dry skin will leave your skin smooth and soft, not greasy.

Apply your moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to help lock in hydration. Use gentle upward strokes, and don't forget your neck. If you're using a body lotion on your face, make sure it's formulated for facial skin—some body lotions can be too heavy or clog pores.

Common mistake: Using too much product. A pea-sized amount is usually enough for your face. Over-applying can lead to a greasy feel or breakouts.

Checkpoint: Your skin should feel comfortable and hydrated, not greasy. If it feels dry later, you may need a richer moisturizer.

Step 4: Add a Weekly Treatment (Optional)

Once your daily routine is solid, you can add a weekly treatment like a face mask or exfoliant. This can help boost your results, but it's not essential for everyone. If you have sensitive skin, start with once a week and see how your skin reacts.

A bubble bath or a gentle exfoliating mask can be a nice treat, but don't overdo it. Over-exfoliating can damage your skin barrier and make your routine less effective.

Checkpoint: Your skin should feel calm, not irritated, after any treatment. If you experience redness or stinging, cut back.

Step 5: Adjust for Your Skin's Needs

Your skin changes with the seasons, your age, and your lifestyle. In winter, you might need a richer moisturizer. In summer, a lighter lotion may suffice. Pay attention to how your skin feels and adjust your products accordingly.

For glowing skin, consistency matters more than the number of products. A simple routine done daily will yield better results than a complex one done occasionally.

Checkpoint: Review your routine every few months. If a product isn't working, don't be afraid to swap it out.

Your 5-Step Routine at a Glance

1. Cleanse: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and prep your skin. Your skin should feel clean, not tight.
2. Apply Serum: Press a few drops of serum into your skin, focusing on areas of concern. Wait a minute for absorption before the next step.
3. Moisturize: Apply a face moisturizer that suits your skin type, using gentle upward strokes. Your skin should feel hydrated, not greasy.
4. Weekly Treatment (Optional): Use a mask or exfoliant once a week to boost results. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency.
5. Adjust as Needed: Change your products based on season, age, and skin condition. Consistency beats complexity.

Products That Fit Your Routine

• Disney’s Mickey Mouse Face + Body Lotion, Comfort: Made with naturally-derived botanicals and fresh, delicate scent, Honest’s gentle-for-baby Face + Body Lotion delivers up to 24 hours of blissful moisture, and leaves skin smooth, soft and healthy-looking. Dermatologist tested, this nourishing formula is gentle for baby’s delicate skin, and perfect for the whole family. This lotion is a great final step for locking in hydration after your serum. Its gentle, dermatologist-tested formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin, and the 24-hour moisture means you won't need to reapply during the day.
• Disney and Pixar's Toy Story Face + Body Lotion, Sensitive: Made with naturally-derived botanicals, Honest’s Face + Body Lotion delivers up to 24 hours of blissful moisture, and leaves skin smooth, soft and healthy-looking. Dermatologist tested and hypoallergenic, this nourishing, gentle formula is perfect for the whole fam. If you have sensitive skin, this hypoallergenic lotion is a smart choice. It provides long-lasting hydration without added fragrances that could irritate, so it pairs well with a simple serum routine.
• Glow On Body Oil: Add a few drops of sunshine to your bump care routine with our plant based Honest Mama Glow On Body Oil, perfect for mom's growing belly. Formulated to help support the skin as it stretches, this omega infused blend moisturizes, nourishes, and nurtures skin as your body expands. It's perfect for application any time, especially post bath or shower. Great for massage and pregnant bellies and gentle enough for daily... While this is designed for pregnancy, it's a great example of a nourishing oil that can be used as an extra step for very dry areas. Applying it after your moisturizer can help seal in hydration and support skin elasticity.

Building a skincare routine with serums and moisturizers is all about the right order and consistency. Start with a clean face, apply your serum, lock it in with a moisturizer, and adjust as your skin changes. With a few simple steps, you can support healthy, glowing skin every day.