Serums are the powerhouses of any routine, packed with concentrated actives that tackle dullness, fine lines, and dehydration. Apply them in the wrong order, and you can dilute their impact or even trigger sensitivity. Follow this straightforward guide to learn the thinnest-to-thickest principle, see a full AM and PM lineup using Radiant Bloom products, and pick up timing tips that leave skin balanced and glowing.
Penetration – Water-light serums need direct contact with skin so larger molecules are not blocking the path.
pH compatibility – Vitamin C and exfoliating acids work best at lower pH, while peptides prefer neutral conditions.
Irritation control – Separating strong actives prevents barrier overload.
Stick to the rule-of-thumb: go from the lightest water base to the richest oil or cream.
| Step | Product | Reason | Wait Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hydrating Serum (hyaluronic acid + cloudberry) | Replenishes moisture reservoir so later actives spread evenly | 20 sec |
| 2 | Vitamin C Serum | Brightens and shields skin from free radicals through the day | 30 sec |
| 3 | Anti-Age Day Cream (peptides + ceramides) | Seals hydration and supports firmness | 30 sec |
| 4 | Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 | Physical barrier against UV and pollution | – |
Pro tip: Pat each layer lightly instead of rubbing. Patting reduces micro-friction and keeps pilling away.
| Step | Product | Reason | Wait Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hydrating Serum | Rehydrates after cleansing, primes skin | 20 sec |
| 2 | Botox-Like Peptide Serum | Relaxes expression lines and boosts elasticity | 30 sec |
| 3 | Organic Bakuchiol Serum | Stimulates collagen without irritation | 30 sec |
| 4 | Collagen Anti-Age Night Cream | Locks in actives and delivers overnight repair | – |
| 5 | All-In-One Facial Oil (optional) | Extra nourishment for dry climates | – |
Apply to damp skin – Hydrating Serum works best when skin is slightly moist.
Thirty-second rule – Giving each serum a short settling period prevents formula mixing on the surface and helps absorption.
No tugging – Use fingertips to press, especially around the eye contour where skin is thinner.
Patch smart – Introduce one new serum at a time every three to four nights so you can track results.
Sticky residue often means too much product or insufficient wait time. Reduce the amount to a pea-size and allow thirty seconds. Finish with a lightweight cream to create a smooth surface.
Cocktailing is possible with hydrating formulas but separate strong actives like vitamin C and bakuchiol to preserve stability and potency.
Oils are occlusive – apply them last to seal in moisture but avoid heavy oils if you plan to reapply sunscreen during the day.
Need to streamline? Try a three-step strategy:
Hydrating Serum
Vitamin C Serum (AM) or Bakuchiol Serum (PM)
Mineral SPF 30 (AM) or Collagen Night Cream (PM)
Even pared back, this covers hydration, active treatment, and barrier protection.
Layering serums does not need to be complicated. Follow the light-to-rich sequence, give each product breathing room, and your skin will reward you with clarity, bounce, and a healthy glow. Build your personalised stack with Radiant Bloom serums today – and remember to protect all that progress with daily SPF.
Explore the full Serum Collection and create your perfect morning-to-night ritual.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023 serum penetration study
International Society of Dermatology, 2024 peptide efficacy report
Author: Radiant Bloom Organic Team
Updated: July 2025
