It’s a common skin care slip-up: applying a facial serum or moisturizer first, then patting on your eye product. But here’s the truth: when it comes to the delicate eye area, order matters.

“The skin around your eyes is thinner and more fragile than anywhere else on your face,” says Beth Bialko, our Senior Director of Education. “It needs its own dedicated step so it can get the active ingredients first, and should ideally come before your other treatments.”

When should you apply eye cream?

Eye serums and creams are specially formulated for the delicate skin around your eyes. Applying them after toning and before your face treatments helps ensure they absorb properly and aren’t blocked or diluted by facial serums or moisturizers meant for thicker skin.

Applying eye formulas before other treatments also helps prevent product migration. Since most people don’t wash or wipe their hands between skin care steps, applying your eye product early reduces the risk of accidentally transferring things, like sunscreen or active formulas, to the sensitive eye area.

What’s the correct way to layer skin care?

1. Cleanser

Removes dirt, oil, makeup and debris. Always start with clean skin so your treatments can work properly. 
Pro pick: Flash Foam Cleanser works for all skin types.

2. Toner

Can help hydrate the skin and prep it for absorption of the next formula.
Pro pick: Soothing Reset Mist nourishes, hydrates and protects even the most sensitive skin types.

3. Eye product

Apply your eye product now (before heavier serums or moisturizers) so this fragile area gets the full benefit of targeted ingredients.
Pro pick: Multi-Task Eye Creme brightens, moisturizes and targets signs of aging around the eyes.

4. Face serum

These formulas contain potent ingredients like vitamin C, peptides or exfoliants. They should go on pre-hydrated skin for maximum penetration.
Pro pick: Vc10 Daily Glow helps brighten and even tone.

5. Moisturizer

Hydrates, strengthens your skin barrier and locks in all the layers underneath. It can also help smooth and prep for SPF or makeup.
Pro pick: Remineralist Daily Moisture is lightweight and works for all skin types.

6. Sunscreen (AM only)

This is your final (non-negotiable) step for the morning time. Applying SPF last creates a protective layer to guard against sun damage.
Pro pick: Raydefense is lightweight and hydrating.

The order of application is critical for both product performance and skin safety. Prioritizing your eye product placement ensures you get the most from your formulas and protects your most delicate skin in the process.