Knowledge
Skincare, clearly explained.
What goes on your skin in which order, what works together and what does the research say? Short explanations with sources.
The right order
Rule of thumb: from watery to rich. That way every step reaches the skin.
- No.01
Pre-cleanse
in the evening with make-up or sunscreen: oil, balm or micellar water
- No.02
Cleanse
gentle cleanser; water is often enough in the morning
- No.03
Active
one active per time of day: vitamin C in the morning, retinoid or acid in the evening
- No.04
Hydrate
hyaluronic serum on slightly damp skin
- No.05
Moisturise
cream to match your skin: light for shine, rich for tightness
- No.06
Protect
last in the morning: sunscreen SPF 50
What works together?
The key actives at a glance. The Skinpaired routine finder plans the same way.
| Niacinamide | Vitamin C | Retinoid | Acid | Hyaluronic | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide | – | fits | fits | fits | fits |
| Vitamin C | fits | – | split morning/evening | split morning/evening | fits |
| Retinoid | fits | split morning/evening | – | never same evening | fits |
| Acid | fits | split morning/evening | never same evening | – | fits |
| Hyaluronic | fits | fits | fits | fits | – |
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
In what order should you apply skincare?
From watery to rich: cleanse, active, hydrating serum, cream and, in the morning, sunscreen last. In the evening, with make-up or sunscreen, a pre-cleanse comes first.
Can you use niacinamide and vitamin C together?
Yes. The old warning comes from heated lab experiments and doesn't apply to today's products. Skinpaired still puts vitamin C in the morning and niacinamide in the evening so each active has its fixed place.
Can you combine retinol and acids?
Not on the same evening, or skin gets irritated easily. If you use both, alternate evenings and plan rest evenings. Skinpaired builds a weekly plan for that.
Do you need sunscreen in winter?
For your face, yes, especially with retinoids, acids or vitamin C. The long-term Nambour trial shows that daily sunscreen slows visible skin ageing.
How much retinol is allowed in the EU?
At most 0.3 % retinol equivalent in face products and 0.05 % in body lotion, as set out in Regulation (EU) 2024/996.
How many products does a good routine need?
Three are enough: cleanser, cream, sunscreen. If you enjoy more, add actives, serums and masks. What matters is that everything fits together and nothing doubles up.
What is purging?
In the first weeks with retinoids or acids, you may temporarily get more blemishes. If it lasts longer than about six weeks or your skin burns, go back a step.
Is Skinpaired medical advice?
No. Skinpaired gives cosmetic skincare tips. For persistent skin problems, a dermatologist is the right place to go.
Find a routine where everything works together
Cosmetic information, not medical advice. Studies are summarised in our own words; the original source is authoritative.