How to Layer Your Skincare Products Like a Pro
12th of January, 2026
? BLOG POST: How to Layer Your Skincare Products Like a Pro
When it comes to skincare, the products you use matter — but so does the order you use them in.
Applying your skincare in the correct sequence can make all the difference between results and wasted product.
At Distinction Beauty, Glasgow Southside, our expert therapists use and recommend Medik8 for science-led, high-performance skincare. Here’s our guide to layering your products like a professional — morning and night.
? Your Morning Routine: Protect and Prepare
Your morning skincare routine should focus on hydration, protection, and prevention — setting your skin up for the day ahead.
Step 1: Cleanse
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove oils and impurities from overnight.
✨ Try: Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse for brightening, or Calmwise Soothing Cleanser for sensitive skin.
Step 2: Tone / Exfoliate (optional)
Use a mild daily exfoliant to prep your skin for better absorption.
✨ Try: Press & Glow — a gentle PHA-based toner that smooths without irritation.
Step 3: Serum (Vitamin C)
This is where your antioxidant power comes in. Vitamin C helps protect against free radicals, pollution, and UV damage.
✨ Try: C-Tetra or C-Tetra Luxe — brightens, smooths, and defends.
Step 4: Moisturise
Lock in hydration and strengthen your skin barrier.
✨ Try: Balance Moisturiser or Advanced Day Ultimate Protect for anti-pollution defence.
Step 5: SPF (Always, Always SPF!)
The most important step in your routine — SPF protects your skin from premature ageing, pigmentation, and UV damage.
✨ Try: Advanced Day Ultimate Protect (SPF 50+) — lightweight, hydrating, and non-greasy.
? Your Evening Routine: Repair and Rejuvenate
Nighttime is when your skin repairs and regenerates — making it the perfect time to use active ingredients.
Step 1: Double Cleanse
Remove makeup and SPF with a nourishing oil cleanser, then follow with a targeted second cleanse.
✨ Try: Lipid Balance Cleansing Oil → Surface Radiance Cleanse or Calmwise Soothing Cleanser.
Step 2: Tone / Prep
A gentle exfoliating toner like Press & Glow can help enhance absorption of your nighttime serums.
Step 3: Serum (Targeted Treatment)
Evening is the best time to use active ingredients like Vitamin A (retinol/retinal) to boost cell turnover and stimulate collagen.
✨ Try: Crystal Retinal — choose your level (1–20) based on your skin’s needs.
Step 4: Moisturise & Restore
Seal in all your hard work with a nourishing night cream.
✨ Try: Advanced Night Restore — packed with ceramides, peptides, and antioxidants.
⚖️ General Layering Tips
✅ Apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency.
✅ Allow serums and treatments to absorb for 30–60 seconds before the next layer.
✅ Don’t mix strong actives (like Vitamin C and A) in the same routine. Use C in the morning, A at night.
✅ Always finish with SPF in the day.
?♀️ Professional Help for Your Perfect Routine
If you’re unsure which products or actives are right for your skin, book a consultation at Distinction Beauty, Glasgow Southside.
Our expert therapists will analyse your skin and design a tailored Medik8 routine to suit your concerns — from dryness and sensitivity to acne and ageing.
Because beautiful, healthy skin isn’t about more products — it’s about the right products, in the right order.
? Recommended Add-Ons
? HydrO₂ Facial – Deep cleans and preps your skin to absorb actives better.
? LED Light Therapy – Calms and accelerates results from active ingredients.
? Medik8 Peels – Boost renewal for smoother, brighter skin.