With the seemingly never ending craze of excessive, 12-step skincare making our former 'cleanse, tone and moisturise' routine far more complicated, it can be overwhelming trying to decipher what your skin actually needs and what order you should apply your skincare in to yield the best results for your dermis.

But contrary to popular belief, less really is more – and hoarding too many active ingredients in a cupboard stashed with lotions and potions or layering the wrong formulas is only going to spell dermatological disaster for your skin in the long run.

The solution? Understanding what works for your skin is the first hurdle, but it’s also about the order in which you apply your skincare, too. Because, it’s not just where you apply your products that's important, but how you apply them. After all, you don’t want to splurge on an eye cream only to find out you’ve been using it completely the wrong way, or you've not been waiting long enough for your precious serum to sink in before applying your moisturiser.

'Good skincare is essential,' says Tanya Zahoor, co-founder of Aesthetics Lab. 'But no less crucial is the way you apply your products. You may have all the right creams and serums, but if you are applying them in the wrong order, you might not be reaping all of the benefits.'

how to apply skincare
Courtesy of Press Office

Which order should you apply your skincare routine in?

'When it comes to skincare, the idea is that you're protecting your skin from damage in the future and trying to preserve and repair the skin. I have a mantra: protect, repair and preserve,' shares consultant dermatologist Dr Emma Craythorne.

Using this mantra, you can create an effective yet considered skincare routine with the correct order or products. 'A very gentle cleanser that does the simple job of cleaning should be the first step of your routine, followed by a moisturiser that supports the skin barrier and an SPF,' she says. 'At night is when you want to "treat" the skin,' she notes. 'At night, simply wash your face, or double cleanse if wearing make-up, and then apply your treatment depending on your specific skincare concern.'

'I always think exfoliating agents are best applied overnight, as they can be washed off the next morning. That's why I would usually suggest using a topical chemical exfoliant in the evening.'

how to get glowing skin
LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT

    The Order You Should Be Applying Your Skincare In

    Below, we asked the experts about the definitive order we should be applying our skincare products in so you can get the most out of your skin.

    1. Make-Up Remover

        This should only be part of your night-time routine. Dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto explains: ‘The first part of your nighttime skincare routine should be to remove make-up and sunscreen and I find the easiest way to do this is with a micellar water although other options such as cleansing balms exist.'

        This will hopefully get rid of the majority of foundation or SPF that’s still clinging to your face by the end of the day but just to be totally sure, it’s best to follow up with a cleanser afterwards. The second cleanse will remove any dirt, sweat, bacteria or grime the skin has come into contact with during the day as well as residual skincare products.

        2. Cleanser

        This is what has been termed as a double cleanse but is only necessary as part of your nighttime routine. ‘I don't recommend double cleansing twice a day. I think it's painfully unnecessary and it can actually irritate the skin long term,' believes medical doctor Dr Ewoma Ukeleghe.

        'Of course, if you wear make-up or water-resistant SPF, I can appreciate the reasoning behind double cleansing. If you've properly double cleansed in the evening, why would you need double cleanse again in the morning? I find that all these overcomplicated steps could be avoided if people cleanse their face properly the first time around.'

        the order to apply your skincare products
        Getty Images

        For a double cleanse at night, it’s best to use either a balm or lotion cleanser to melt away any lingering make-up. When it comes to choosing the best cleanser for your skin type, Dr Mahto explains that pily skins may prefer a foaming cleanser where dry skin types may want to opt for a cream cleanser instead. 'For oily skin, I would recommend owning two cleansers - one with an active ingredient (2% salicylic) and a gentle cleanser and rotate them throughout the week,' shares Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme, a doctor at the Adonia Medical Clinic.

        10 Of The Best Cleansers For Oily Skin
        Blemish Control Face Cleanser
        CeraVe Blemish Control Face Cleanser
        £13 at Cult Beauty£13 at Amazon£10 at LookFantastic

        Is your oily skin casually accompanied by unprovoked breakouts and pesky congestion? If so, it's good to keep some salicylic acid on side. This targeted cleanser also harnesses the power of hectorite clay, three essential ceramides and niacinamide too, banishing shine and keeping your skin calm and clarified without that stripped, squeaky feeling.

        Blemish and Age Defense Corrective Gel
        SkinCeuticals Blemish and Age Defense Corrective Gel

        The idea that you grow out of oily or blemish-prone skin when you exceed your teens just isn't always true. You can wake up to a slick and congested complexion no matter your age, so having an oily skin cleanser that's formulated for adult skin is essential. This refreshing gel does just that, sloughing away excess sebum, dirt and impurities without ever leaving your skin feeling stripped.

        Whipped Greens Oil-Free Foaming Cleanser
        Farmacy Beauty Whipped Greens Oil-Free Foaming Cleanser

        If you're looking to upgrade your everyday cleanser to a modern oil-free formula, let us introduce you to this gentle and pH-balanced lather. With a lightweight foaming texture, this nourishing blend of moringa and papaya replenishes hydration without ever stripping your complexion.

        Skincare Phaze Rebalancing PHA Cleanser
        Pai Skincare Phaze Rebalancing PHA Cleanser

        You're guaranteed to find at least one of Pai's cult classic products in the ELLE beauty team's bathroom cupboard and this new skin-smoothing cleanse is the latest to make the cut. Gently exfoliating, this gel face wash combines sugar complex and plant-derived PHAs to buff away surface blackheads and texture.

        Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel
        La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel

        If your oily skin is reactive and irritation prone, this clarifying cleanser should be top of your shopping list. Infused with La Roche-Posay’s signature thermal spring water, it comforts and refreshes agitated skin without compromising on a deep and thorough clean.

        With a hat trick of clarifying, purifying and calming promises, this blemish fighting cleanser is ideal for congested oily skin. Think prickly pear, salicylic acid, pro-vitamin B5, violet willow extract, colloidal silver and prebiotics, all in one deep cleansing formula.

        Find Your Balance™ Oil Control Cleanser
        Ole Henriksen Find Your Balance™ Oil Control Cleanser
        Now 20% Off
        Credit: .

        Blending neem seed oil and exfoliating alpha hydroxy acids, this cleanser works to gently lift any dead skin cells and eradicate excess oil. It leaves skin feeling refreshed and smoother, and helps control excess sebum so well, it stops T-zones getting slick by lunch time. This in turn results in less blemishes — a win-win.

        Normaderm Deep Cleansing Purifying Gel
        Vichy Normaderm Deep Cleansing Purifying Gel
        Credit: .

        This sloughs away everything from dirt to dust and pollutant particles, leaving you blemish-free. It helps to rebalance oiliness without leaving behind tightness and doesn't irritate sensitive skin. It also helps smooth out any irregular texture, banishing pesky bumps and reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

        ExfoliKate Cleanser Daily Foaming Wash
        Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser Daily Foaming Wash

        If blackheads are the bane of your life, this lightweight cleanser foams to unclog pores, mattify oiliness and prevent future spots from forming. On top of seeing less spots, you might also notice a reduction in redness, leaving skin looking smoother and brighter.

        With that being said, it's a potent formula, so build up frequency to ensure you don’t strip away your skin’s much-needed natural oils.

        Vinopure Purifying Gel Cleanser
        Caudalie Vinopure Purifying Gel Cleanser
        Credit: .

        Sensitive skin means avoiding anything abrasive, which is why this cleanser — infused with organic grape water and salicylic acid — tops our list. The texture is on the thicker side, and creates a rich lather when mixed with water to provide a deep clean.

        3. Toner (optional)

        In the theme of keeping things simple, a toner is an optional step in a skincare routine. This can either be a clarifying, hydrating or chemical exfoliating toner, depending on which works best for your skin.

        Using a chemical exfoliator, such as an AHA-based product, can gently remove any dead skin cells without the abrasive damaging qualities of a scrub. It may be a more effective option but it’s also best to make sure you’re not overdoing it.

        ‘Everyone has a different tolerance level for products which contain chemical or physical exfoliators,' advises Dr Mahto. 'The key thing is firstly not to use too many products and keep it simple. Most people are unlikely to need an exfoliating face wash and a toner and a face-mask in their routine,' she says.

        what order you should be applying skincare products in
        Filippo Fortis//LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT

        'Secondly, a bit of common sense is required. If your skin feels dry, tight, scaly or flaky after a product then ease off using it for a few days; on the other hand if your skin tolerates it without any issues, then you are probably fine to continue using it.'

        ELLE Edit: Salicylic Acid Toners For Oily Skin
        Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
        Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
        Credit: .
        AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
        COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
        Credit: ,
        Beta Hydroxy Acid
        The Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid
        Credit: .

        4. Eye Cream

        We’ll admit that this is probably the skincare step we all tend to skip, which isn’t a huge problem if you don’t have any under-eye concerns, but if you struggle with dryness or dark circles an eye cream really does work some magic.

        'Always apply eye cream to perfectly cleansed and toned skin before your moisturiser. To boost the efficiency of the cream, I sometimes tap a lightweight serum or concentrate around my eyes before applying the cream to my eye contour and lids,' shares Kirsti Shuba, co-founder of Katherine Daniels Cosmetics.

        ELLE Edit: Best Eye Creams
        Double Serum Eye - £56
        Clarins Double Serum Eye - £56
        Credit: .
        Illumineye C - £95
        Omorovicza Illumineye C - £95
        Credit: .
        Radiance Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream - £42
        Ren Clean Skincare Radiance Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream - £42
        Credit: .
        Advanced Génifique Eye Cream - £45
        LANCOME Advanced Génifique Eye Cream - £45
        Credit: .
        Immortelle Divine Eye Balm - £59
        L'Occitane Immortelle Divine Eye Balm - £59
        Credit: .
        Super Anti-Aging Eye Cream - £160
        Dr. Barbara Sturm Super Anti-Aging Eye Cream - £160
        Credit: .
        Advanced Night Repair Eye Concentrate Matrix - £49
        Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Concentrate Matrix - £49
        Credit: .
        Wrinkle Blur™ Bakuchiol Eye Gel Crème - £42
        Ole Henriksen Wrinkle Blur™ Bakuchiol Eye Gel Crème - £42
        Credit: .

        5. Serums

        This is arguably the most important step in your skincare routine as serums usually contain the active ingredients that make the biggest difference to skin.

        If you have dry or sensitive skin, Dr Ejikeme advises looking out for serums containing ‘humectants such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid and ceramides to repair the barrier function first. Once the barrier function of the skin improves and sensitivity goes down, we can start treating different elements in the skin with more active ingredients.'

        the order to apply your skincare products
        LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT

        If you have oily skin and are worried about making skin even slicker, Dr Ewoma advises using a serum and skipping the moisturiser step: ‘I recommend people with oily skin to use a hyaluronic acid serum (instead of a moisturiser), particularly in warmer months’.

        ELLE Edit: 13 Of The Best Face Serums For Super Glowy Skin
        Evercalm Redness Relief Serum
        REN Clean Skincare Evercalm Redness Relief Serum
        Now 20% Off
        Credit: .

        Best for... sensitive skin

        If your skin is temperamental, you’ll need a reliable serum to soothe quickly, before resuming normal service. Milk proteins calm, while arnica repairs in this rosacea-friendly formula.

        Silymarin CF Antioxidant Vitamin-C Serum for Oily/Blemish Prone Skin
        SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF Antioxidant Vitamin-C Serum for Oily/Blemish Prone Skin

        Best for … tackling blemishes and signs of ageing, at once

        The latest product to join the range from our beloved SkinCeuticals, Silymarin CF is a powerful vitamin C triple antioxidant serum formulated specifically for oily and blemish-prone skin. The result of six years of research and development, this lightweight formula helps reduce oil oxidation, control excess sebum and improve the appearance of blemishes while targeting signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.

        Double Serum - £78
        Clarins Double Serum - £78
        Credit: .

        Best for... exact dosage

        If, like us, you're never sure how much of your serum is actually a 'pea size' then Clarins' genius Double Serum is here to ease your mind. The swanky pump design delivers an exact made to measure dosage, and the serum inside is pretty great too. With 21 active plant extracts including hero ingredient turmeric, this targets traditional signs of ageing to leave your skin looking firmer and more radiant.

        best serums
        Lancôme Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum - £60 for 30ml

        SHOP NOW

        Best... all-rounder

        This serum works to strengthen your natural microbiome, (the protective good bacteria which sits on skin), supporting its defence and recovery. The result is overall happier (firmer, smoother, more radiant) skin.

        Lucky If Sharp
        best serums
        Dr Barbara Sturm Clarifying Serum - £175 for 30ml

        SHOP NOW

        Best for... purifying

        Blemish-ridden, oily skin needs purifying and rebalancing, and this does just that, tackling spots and sebum without any drying side effects.

        Lucky If Sharp
        best serums
        Herbivore Bakuchiol Serum - £49

        SHOP NOW

        Best for... smoothing

        If retinol’s aggressive nature puts the fear into you, but you’re still lusting after its regenerating powers, try this natural alternative. It’s gentle, but testers still remark on its line-smoothing effects.

        Lucky If Sharp
        C E Ferulic Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum for Normal/Dry Skin
        SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum for Normal/Dry Skin
        Credit: .

        Best... high potency antioxidant

        This potent day time Vitamin C serum has a cult following amongst beauty editors for its high-strength formula and visible results. This powerful triple antioxidant provides 8x environmental protection, helps prevent free radical damage and improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness, while brightening the skin.

        best serums
        Decree Treat Tincture - £130

        SHOP NOW

        Best for... overnight

        This juicy serum – formulated by famed skin doctor Dr AJ Sturnham – blends stem cells, retinoids and hyaluronic acid. Together, they've been proven to speed up cell regeneration.

        Lucky If Sharp
        best serums
        Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus - £47 for 30ml

        SHOP NOW

        Best for... resurfacing

        Laser facials do wonders to iron out bumpy or scarred skin, but cost a pretty penny. Unlike this laser-mimicking serum, an excellent second-best approach, formulated with glucosamine to speed up skin healing.

        Lucky If Sharp
        Phloretin CF Serum
        SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Serum
        Credit: .

        Best for… free radical protection

        This topical triple antioxidant serum provides advanced protection against environmental damage, neutralises free radicals and helps to prevent collagen breakdown. Featuring a patented combination of 2% Phloretin, 10% pure vitamin C, and 0.5% Ferulic Acid, it helps to diminish the appearance of hyperpigmentation and improves skin tone, for protected skin and a brighter, more even complexion.

        Vinoperfect Complexion Correcting Radiance Serum 30ml
        Caudalie Vinoperfect Complexion Correcting Radiance Serum 30ml

        Best for... brightening

        Pigmentation can sneak up on us, particularly if we’re guilty of sun-worshipping. This is a winning formulation for erasing dark spots and brightening the canvas in just a few weeks.

        best serums
        Chantecaille Bio Lifting Serum+ - £242

        SHOP NOW

        Best for... lifting

        Science meets nature in this face-firming serum, which combats the effects of gravity (sagging skin and lost volume) by using peptides and botanicals to perk and tighten.

        Lucky If Sharp
        best serums
        Vichy Mineral 89 - £25

        SHOP NOW

        Best for... hydrating

        A comfortable-on-skin blend of hyaluronic acid (a naturally occurring molecule that holds onto water) that noticeably transforms parched faces fast. Your skin will feel as plumped as a posh hotel pillow.

        Lucky If Sharp

        6. Moisturiser

        The best rule of thumb when it comes to skincare order is: lightest first. After you've applied your lightweight serum, it's time to add a thicker moisturiser. There are the thick textures that instantly quench dry skin, or the gels that cool and hydrate, either way slathering on a bit of moisturiser is a must when it comes to hydration.

        They are a god-send for dry skin sufferers but may not be necessary if you’re on the oilier side, so don’t panic if you want to skip this step. If you’re using active ingredients such as a retinoid product, they’re a great way to seal all the goodness in, too.

        ‘Fifteen to twenty minutes after applying the vitamin A product, using a simple fragrance-free moisturiser to the skin can be of benefit. Vitamin A can irritate the skin leading to dryness, sensitivity and flaking so using a moisturiser afterwards can help reduce these symptoms and improve tolerability,' explains Dr Mahto.

        Searching for an affordable alternative for your oily complexion? Look no further than this brightly packaged but hardworking gel-cream by Byoma. A tonic for thirsty skin, it combines niacinamide and barrier-boosting ceramides and has a super lightweight consistency making it a salve for anyone prone to oiliness and breakouts.

        Clarifying Oil-Free Water Gel
        Murad Clarifying Oil-Free Water Gel

        If you don't want to compromise on skin-quenching qualities when it comes to your daily moisturiser, try switching it up for this water gel. Incredibly light weight, it sinks into skin so quickly, with no stickiness, and no clogged pores. Especially good on the forehead and t-zone.

        Protini Polypeptide Cream
        Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream

        Waking up to uncomfortable, congested skin? An extra blanket of thick, greasy shine is the last thing you need. That's why we favour lightweight, water-gel textures that hydrate without ever feeling heavy. Cue Drunk Elephant's Protini Polypeptide Cream. This cloud-like moisturiser absorbs into your skin without leaving a trace and is packed with peptides to help strengthen and nourish your face when it's at it's most compromised.

        ClearCalm Replenishing Gel Cream
        Ren Clean Skincare ClearCalm Replenishing Gel Cream

        The name of this cream speaks for itself: clear and calm. Taking a three-pronged approach to acne, this multitasking moisturiser targets excess dead skin cells, over-production of sebum and bacteria. Made up of Japanese liquorice extract, lingonberry seed oil and a soothing complex of chamomile, lavender and sage, this high-performance gel cream lightens acne scars, controls oil and most importantly keeps acne-causing congestion at bay.

        Effaclar Duo+M
        La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M

        When it comes to blemishes, La Roche-Posay is famous for being able to tackle any spot that you throw at it. Containing salicylic acid, this daily moisturiser works to unblock pores and control sebum levels. Use it regularly and you’re not only less likely to get future breakouts but, with the addition of zinc, it helps to get rid of any current spots, too.

        In fact, if you're really only hoping to treat a few single, sporadic breakouts, the brand's latest spot treatment is just the thing you need.

        Cicapair Tiger Grass Calming Gel Cream
        Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Calming Gel Cream

        It's no secret that Dr. Jart+ is a powerhouse when it comes to redness. In fact, you might already be familiar with its viral colour-correcting treatment which has been crowned a modern skincare hero by TikTok. This ultra-light cream is another favourite of ours. It uses a clever complex of tiger grass and cicabond (a skin renewing blend of proteins and minerals) to calm and restore irritated, red, stressed skin when spots and rosacea make an unwanted return.

        Clarifying Face Cream
        Dr. Barbara Sturm Clarifying Face Cream

        If you find you get the odd spot now and again but still want your skin to appear glowy, this luxe hero from Dr. Sturm provides the best of both worlds. Enriched with zinc, it manages to soothe any irritation and counteract redness whilst still leaving skin with a plumped and dewy finish – no oiliness in sight.

        The Water Cream
        Tatcha The Water Cream

        When it comes to luxury skincare, Tatcha is hard to beat. This chic pot comes complete with a gold spatula to pick up the perfect amount of product with every application. The formula is pretty impressive too; a rich blend of rice, algae, green tea and Japanese rose. It smoothes texture, tightens pores and balances excess oil production, leaving you with a demi-matte finish. Add it to your skincare routine ASAP.

        Cleanance Comedomed Moisturiser
        Avène Cleanance Comedomed Moisturiser

        Acne-prone, oily and sensitive? If you've hit the trifecta, you can't go far wrong with a bit of Avène in your daily routine. Not only does it mattify, reduce excess sebum and hydrate all at once, but it's also formulated with the brand's iconic Thermal Spring Water which soothes areas of irritation. We'll take two.

        The Light Cream
        Augustinus Bader The Light Cream

        We guarantee you'll find Augustinus Bader's line-up of luxury, hardworking products on almost every beauty editor's bathroom shelf. Designed for oily skin types and humid climates, this lighter version of the cult original cream has a matte finish specifically designed to control unwanted shine. A brilliant bookend to any skincare routine, it's a worthwhile investment if you ask us.

        Normaderm Double-Correction Daily Care
        Vichy Normaderm Double-Correction Daily Care

        Salicylic acid is the gold standard when it comes to blemish-busting ingredients, and one to look out for when you're shopping for skincare. This creamy moisturiser also contains hyaluronic acid to ensure your skin feels supple, plump and hydrated throughout the day too. Consider it a one-stop shop to a blemish-free complexion.

        Oil Control Weightless Gel Moisturiser
        Curél Oil Control Weightless Gel Moisturiser

        If your skin is ultra-sensitive and prone to a shiny T-zone then this weightless moisturiser from Curél ticks every box. It's fragrance-free, won't clog your pores and is ideal for sensitive skin types. A couple of pumps is enough for your whole face, so this bottle will last for a while. It'll balancing oil production and because it's also rich in skin-barrier-soothing ceramides, it'll soften, smooth and hydrate without leaving any greasiness behind.

        Night Cream
        SOS Night Cream

        While this might not look like the most appealing of moisturisers, it's proof that what's on the inside really counts. If you have oily skin and have looked on with envy as dry skin types around you get to slather on rich, luxurious creams without breaking out, we hear you. This hydrating option is less than £20 but believe us when we say it outperforms many pricier brands, and has everything you need if you're prone to redness and oversized pores.

        B Triple C Facial Balancing Gel
        Aesop B Triple C Facial Balancing Gel
        Now 10% Off

        Acne-prone skin commonly goes hand-in-hand with excess oil production, which is exactly what this gel hydrator aims to quell. While it may feel sticky at first, it sinks into skin in seconds to leave you with a grease-free face.

        Oil Free Moisturiser
        Kate Somerville Oil Free Moisturiser

        Skincare expert Kate Somerville has been treating and perfecting faces for 30 years, so it's safe to say that she knows her stuff. That's why this cult moisturiser contains oil-absorbing microspheres that work to ensure skin stays matte all day long.

        8. SPF (day only)

        We know by now that SPF is the only way to end your morning skincare routine and possibly the most important step for us all. Sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from UV damage, especially when you’re using chemical exfoliators in your skincare routine as these make you more susceptible to burn.

        12 Face Moisturisers With SPF To Use Every Day
        All Day Long Daily Defence SPF 50+ Moisturiser
        Dr Jack All Day Long Daily Defence SPF 50+ Moisturiser

        This is a silky smooth day cream that's anything but chalky, and includes both broad-spectrum SPF50 and blue light protection. Apply it after cleansing each morning, and you'll be completely shielded from the sun and the laptop screen. What's more, it's fragrance free and vegan, and produces a lovely glow that avoids that oily, sweaty look many other SPF moisturisers result in.

        Best SPF Moisturiser
        Editor’s Choice
        Advanced Day Total Protect™ SPF 30
        Medik8 Advanced Day Total Protect™ SPF 30

        This is really a do-it-all winner that any skin type will get along with. It feels like a rich, nourishing cream, and sinks into skin seamlessly to leave no white cast or chalky residue. We've tried it under a host of liquid foundations and can confirm it plays well (no pilling in store here), and even the most sensitive will be able to wear it all day long without fear or redness or clogged pores.

        Best SPF Moisturiser For Dry Skin
        Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50
        CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50

        Like all of CeraVe's affordable range, this SPF lotion is packed with ceramides to strengthen your skin barrier, prevent water loss and soothe irritation. It's an especially good choice for dry skin, and will leave you looking dewy – never greasy.

        BEST SPF MOISTURISER FOR OILY SKIN
        Hyalu B5 Aquagel SPF30
        La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Aquagel SPF30

        For those that typically avoid sunscreen for fear of its comedogenic properties, you've no longer got an excuse. This lightweight gel SPF moisturiser is a stand-out option for those who dislike the feel of rich products and want their skincare to feel, well, like it's not there.

        Best spf moisturiser for pigmentation
        On Sale
        Bright Reveal Dark Spot Hydrating Cream SPF 50
        L'Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Dark Spot Hydrating Cream SPF 50
        Now 33% Off

        This dark-spot focused day cream goes the extra mile by protecting your skin from patches of pigmentation. A dose of niacinamide delivers tone-unifying benefits, while the brand's signature moisture complex goes big on the hydration, yet feels pleasingly light.

        Best SPF Moisturiser For A gel texture
        SPF 30 Moisturising Gel Sunscreen
        Byoma SPF 30 Moisturising Gel Sunscreen

        If you're looking for a moisturiser to soothe skin barrier damage, this reparative formula is a good one to opt for. It's a gel formula, but doesn't feel sticky or mattifying, and has impressed multiple members of the team, each with a different skin type.

        Best spf moisturiser for a glow
        Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF50+
        Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF50+

        This coveted moisturiser-meets-sunscreen is another favourite of the ELLE UK beauty team (and, if the rate at which it sells out is any indication, half the country too).

        Lightweight, ultra-absorbent and bursting with hyaluronic acid, it sinks into your skin effortlessly without that typically heavy sunscreen feel. Hydrating and luminous with a completely traceless feel? Sign us up.

        Best SPF Moisturiser For Dehydrated Skin
        On Sale
        Hydrance Rich-UV Hydrating Cream SPF30 Moisturiser
        Avène Hydrance Rich-UV Hydrating Cream SPF30 Moisturiser

        Dry, dehydrated and sensitive skin is a trifecta nobody wants, especially with hot summer days just around the corner (or so we've been promised).

        If you can relate, this creamy moisturiser with added SPF30 is the one for you. Rich and hydrating, it will soothe inflammation, protect against environmental aggressors and leave you looking luminous.

        Best SPF Moisturiser For Mega Moisture
        Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF30
        Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF30

        Elemis' legendary Marine Cream is loved worldwide for good reason: the complex of algae inside works to grab moisture and hold it within the skin, keeping dehydration at bay while plumping out fine, feathery lines. Now, it comes boosted with SPF30: a one-and-done hero for every single morning.

        Best SPF Moisturiser For A Dewy Finish
        Suntouchable! WHOA Glow Moisturiser SPF30
        e.l.f. Suntouchable! WHOA Glow Moisturiser SPF30

        For those who like the glass skin effect, e.l.f's super-affordable SPF moisturiser is a must-try. It lights skin up to beautiful effect, imparting a dewy finish that lasts all day, and layers seamlessly under make-up. If your skin is lacking radiance, this needs to be in your shopping basket ASAP.

        Best SPF Moisturiser For Redness and Rosacea
        On Sale
        Sensibio Anti-Redness Tinted Moisturiser With SPF30
        Bioderma Sensibio Anti-Redness Tinted Moisturiser With SPF30

        If you struggle to keep rosacea flare-ups under control, or are prone to redness, Bioderma's SPF moisturiser has been made specifically with you in mind. It's lightly tinted, so will even out ruddy cheeks, allowing you to lighten up on the foundation.

        Best SPF Moisturiser For Mature Skin
        Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Day Cream SPF 30
        Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Day Cream SPF 30

        Shiseido's SPF moisturiser is the opposite of mundane and practical: in fact, it's luxury skincare in a swirling gold pot. Formulated to help lift and tighten your skin whilst protecting from UV rays and sun damage, this day cream just made applying your SPF a truly indulgent experience.

        Best SPF Moisturiser For Added Actives
        Dynamic Skin Recovery

        This emollient-rich moisturiser is a great choice for skin that tends to feel dehydrated as the day goes on. It's richly hydrating, but doesn't sit on top of your skin, leaving behind an annoying greasy film. Fragrance free and loaded with antioxidants and peptides, it's a smart choice for those who want to brighten and unify their complexion.

        They’ve also come a long way in recent years, ditching the chalky-finish and have evolved to becoming undetectable under make-up, so there’s really no excuse to skip this vital step.

        The Biggest Skincare Mistakes To Avoid

        Using The Wrong Skincare For Your Skin Type

            ‘Ordering the wrong skincare for their skin type is one of the biggest mistakes I see in clinic,' shares Dr Ejikeme. 'For example, people with oily skin using oily products or people with young skin using products for mature skin. Younger skin tends to be oilier and mature skin tends to be drier so the formulations of products are designed to suit those types.'

            Using A Facial Oil On Oily Skin

            To use a facial oil, or to not use a facial oil? This skincare product is constantly under debate from an array of skincare experts but if it works for you, go full steam ahead. ‘Oil is a bit of a contentious issue within the skincare space. Every expert has their own "skin thesis" on things,' explains Dr Ewoma, Cosmetic Doctor and Founder of SKNDOCTOR.

            'Personally, I only advocate oil use for those with normal to dry skin. Oily skin doesn't lack oil if anything it has an excess of it. Adding more oil to such a skin type can cause/exacerbate acne.'

              Using Too Many Acids And Active Ingredients

              Being too eager with the acids can also cause a few issues. ‘The first is having too many steps in their routine and a large number of actives being layered in both the morning and evening', explains Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist at Skin55 and author of The Skincare Bible .

              'Not only can this increase the risk of sensitivity and rashes such as irritant contact dermatitis or eczema, but often it is also not a good use of money. Not everyone needs every single active ingredient available yet there is a temptation to buy many products and use them all.'


              ELLE Collective is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE.

              Lettermark
              Amelia Bell
              Senior Site Beauty Editor

              Amelia Bell is the Senior Site Beauty Editor at ELLE UK, developing beauty strategy, writing, editing, and commissioning, and overseeing all beauty content for the site. Amelia has a particular interest in sustainable beauty practices, exploring the skin-mind connection, and decoding the latest treatments, tweakments and runway trends. She also has bylines for Women's Health, Refinery29, British Vogue, Harrods Magazine, and more.