Morning vs. Evening Skincare Routines

A routine does not have to be different morning and night — but the two halves of the day ask different things of your skin. The morning is about defence; the evening is about repair. Splitting your products accordingly makes each one more effective.

The morning routine: protect

In the morning, the priority is protection from UV and environmental exposure. A splash of water (or a gentle cleanse if you are oily), a moisturiser, and sunscreen is a complete morning routine. Vitamin C, if you use it, sits here because it is most stable in daylight.

• Cleanse (or rinse with water)
• Antioxidant serum, optional (e.g. vitamin C)
• Moisturiser
• Sunscreen — always last, always every morning

The evening routine: repair

In the evening, the priority is removing the day and supporting overnight turnover. Cleanse thoroughly, apply any treatment actives, and seal with moisturiser. This is where acids and retinoids belong — they can increase sun sensitivity and are best used while you sleep.

• Cleanse (double cleanse if wearing sunscreen or makeup)
• Treatment active, on nights it is used
• Moisturiser