How to Layer Serums: Order, Timing and What to Pair
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Serums are concentrated treatments that sit between cleansing and moisturising. Once you have more than one, the question is how to use them together. Layering is simple when you follow a few basic rules.
Do you need more than one serum?
Not always. One serum used consistently is often enough. Many people add a second serum when they want to care for two things, such as dullness and dryness, or use one in the morning and another at night.
The basic order
- Cleanse and pat dry, or leave skin slightly damp if the directions say so.
- Thinnest serum first. Watery serums go on before thicker ones.
- Thicker serums or gels next.
- Moisturiser to finish.
- Sunscreen last, in the morning.
Theraglam serums and how they are used
- The Theraglow Glutathione Serum is a 30ml serum with glutathione, guava, papaya, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and saxifraga. It is applied to damp skin.
- The Brightfix C-Serum contains orange and lemon extracts with essential oils. A few drops are massaged into the skin, daily.
- The Time Rewind Gel is a lightweight gel with Swiss apple cell extract, pro retinol and hyaluronic acid, applied to face and neck with upward massage.
Splitting serums between morning and night
The simplest way to use two or three serums is not to layer them all at once. Spread them across the day:
| Time | Idea |
|---|---|
| Morning | A brightening serum, then moisturiser and sunscreen |
| Night | A hydrating serum, or a pro retinol gel, then moisturiser if needed |
Retinol-type products are usually used at night, with sunscreen every morning.
How long to wait between layers
Give each layer about a minute to settle before the next. You do not need to wait long. The aim is that the first layer is not dripping or sliding when you apply the next.
How much to use
- A few drops of each serum is usually enough for the face.
- Use less of each when you layer two.
- Follow the product directions for amounts and frequency.
Adding a new serum safely
- Patch-test it first.
- Add one new product at a time, and wait a couple of weeks before adding another.
- Stop if you notice stinging, redness or irritation.
Common mistakes
- Using five serums at once. More is not better.
- Applying thick products first, which makes thinner serums harder to spread.
- Skipping sunscreen in the morning.
- Changing serums every week. Give each one time.
Read more: how to apply face serum, how to choose a face serum and glutathione vs vitamin C serum.
Quick questions
Does serum go before or after moisturiser? Before. Serums are thinner and go on first.
Can I mix two serums in my palm? Many people prefer to apply them one at a time so each spreads evenly.
Not sure which products suit your skin? The Theraglam Glow Scan builds a personal skincare routine from 3 photos and a short quiz. Rs 599, one time.
Patch-test any new product on your inner arm for 24 hours first. Stop using it if you notice irritation. This article is general skincare guidance, not medical advice.