In the morning: cleanser, serum, moisturiser, sunscreen. At night: cleanser, serum or treatment, moisturiser. Keep sunscreen as the last skincare step of the morning, and only add one new product at a time.
Morning routine
- Cleanse to start with fresh skin.
- Serum: choose one that matches your main concern.
- Moisturiser: yes, even if your skin is oily.
- Sunscreen: broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, as the final skincare step.
Evening routine
- Cleanse to remove sunscreen, sweat and the day's build-up.
- Serum or treatment: this is the usual time for brightening creams.
- Moisturiser to finish.
Choosing your serum
| Main concern | Good place to start | When | Apply to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dehydration | Hyaluronic Acid Serum | Morning and evening | Slightly damp skin |
| Shine, visible pores | Niacinamide with Zinc PCA | Morning and evening | Clean skin |
| Dullness, dark spots | Vitamin C Exosomes Serum | Morning and evening | Clean, dry skin |
| Uneven-looking tone | Glowing Skin Lightening Cream | Ideally at night | Clean, dry skin |
How to use hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid works mainly at the surface of the skin, holding on to water. Apply it to slightly damp skin after cleansing, press it in gently, then seal it with moisturiser.
Using more than one serum
You do not need several serums to have a good routine. If you use two, apply the thinner one first and let it absorb. Some people prefer one in the morning and one at night. See our guide to using vitamin C and niacinamide together.
Adding something new
- Patch test before first use.
- Introduce one product at a time, so you know what is working or irritating.
- Stop using anything that causes ongoing burning, redness or peeling.
- Give a product time before you decide. Skin does not change overnight.
Not sure where to begin? The Routine Finder builds a morning and evening plan from four quick questions.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. MHR products are cosmetic care and do not treat medical conditions. For persistent, changing or painful skin or scalp concerns, see a qualified doctor or dermatologist.
