If you’ve ever stood in front of your bathroom mirror wondering what goes first in your skincare routine, you’re definitely not alone.
The order you apply your skincare matters more than most people realise. Even the best products may not work as effectively if they’re layered incorrectly. Applying products in the right sequence helps your skin properly absorb hydration, nourishment and protection - while also supporting your skin barrier and maintaining balance over time.
At September Skincare, we believe skincare should feel simple, structured and consistent. The Metrin® Skincare System for Her is designed as a complete five-step routine that works in harmony with the skin through double cleansing and skin layering.
Here’s the correct order to apply your skincare for healthy, balanced and glowing skin.
Why Skincare Order Matters
Each skincare step has a different role. Cleansing removes buildup, while hydrating and moisturising steps help maintain moisture levels and support the skin barrier. Applying products in the wrong order can:
- Prevent ingredients from absorbing properly
- Overload the skin
- Leave skin feeling greasy or dehydrated
- Disrupt balance over time
As a general rule, skincare should be applied from the lightest textures to the richest.
Step 1 - Oil Cleanser
The first step in an effective routine is an oil-based cleanser. Oil cleansers work by attracting and lifting away makeup, sunscreen, excess oil and impurities from the skin without harsh scrubbing. This method helps thoroughly cleanse the skin while supporting moisture balance.
The Metrin® #1 Deep Cleanser for Her uses colloidal action to surround and remove buildup gently from the skin’s surface. Why it comes first:
-Removes oil-based impurities
-Prepares the skin for a deeper cleanse
-Helps avoid stripping the skin barrier
Step 2: Second Cleanser
After removing surface buildup, a second cleanser helps remove remaining debris and refresh the skin. This is known as double cleansing, one of the core principles behind the Metrin Skincare System.
The Metrin® #2 Lathering Cleanser for Her gently foams to cleanse the skin while helping loosen dead skin cells and support natural exfoliation. Why it comes second:
- Removes remaining residue
- Supports clearer-looking skin
- Leaves skin balanced and prepared for hydration
Step 3 - Lightweight Hydration
Once the skin is clean, lightweight hydration should be applied first. This step helps replenish moisture and condition the skin before richer products are layered on top.
The Metrin® #3 Vita Conditioner for Her delivers essential vitamins and fatty acids while preparing the skin to receive further hydration. Why it comes before heavier products:
- Lighter formulas absorb more easily first
- Helps maintain hydration levels
- Supports smoother layering
Step 4 - Hydrating Lotion
After lightweight hydration, apply a hydrating lotion or toner-style product.
The Metrin® #4 Protective Lotion for Her helps maintain moisture while supporting a calm and balanced skin surface. Why this step matters:
- Helps maintain skin comfort
- Supports hydration throughout the day
- Layers additional moisture without heaviness
Step 5 - Richer Moisturiser
The final step is a richer moisturiser to help seal in hydration and maintain softness.
The Metrin® #5 Enriched Vita Conditioner for Her provides deeper nourishment and long-lasting hydration. Why it comes last:
- Helps lock in previous layers
- Supports the skin barrier
- Provides lasting comfort and nourishment
Morning vs Night Skincare Order
The order of your skincare routine should generally stay consistent morning and night. The Metrin Skincare System is designed to be used twice daily using the same five structured steps. This consistency helps the skin maintain balance instead of constantly adjusting to different products.
Common Skincare Layering Mistakes
Applying heavy creams too early: Rich moisturisers can block lighter products from absorbing properly.
Overloading the skin: Too many active ingredients can overwhelm the skin barrier and lead to irritation.
Skipping cleansing: Proper cleansing is essential for allowing the rest of your routine to work effectively.
Constantly changing products: Consistency often delivers better long-term results than frequently switching routines.
A Simple Routine Often Works Best
Healthy-looking skin is usually the result of consistency, balance and supporting the skin barrier over time - not using dozens of products at once.
The Metrin® Skincare System for Her simplifies skincare into five structured steps designed to cleanse, hydrate, nourish and protect the skin while working in harmony with its natural function.
When skincare is applied in the correct order and used consistently, the skin is better able to maintain clarity, hydration and balance over time.