Serum or Moisturizer First? The Correct Skincare Order Explained

When building an effective skincare routine, understanding the correct skincare order can make all the difference between mediocre and remarkable results. One of the most common questions we receive at Dr. M. Bernstein is: "Should I apply serum or moisturizer first?" This seemingly simple question actually has significant implications for your skin's health and appearance. The answer is simple: serum comes first—and here, you'll find out why.

What Is a Serum?

A serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing skincare product with a high concentration of active ingredients designed to target specific skin concerns. According to research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, serums contain smaller molecules that can penetrate deeper into the skin, delivering potent ingredients directly to where they're needed most

Serums typically contain powerful active ingredients such as:

Hyaluronic acid for hydration
Vitamin C for brightening and antioxidant protection
Niacinamide for pore refinement and oil regulation
Peptides for collagen stimulation
Retinol for cell turnover and anti-aging benefits

These concentrated formulations make serums the workhorses of your skincare routine order, addressing concerns like fine lines, hyperpigmentation, dullness, and uneven texture at a cellular level.

Dr. M. Bernstein's Premium Serum Collection

At Dr. M. Bernstein, our 120-year legacy in medicinal herbs and pharmaceutical science has culminated in the development of two revolutionary serums that exemplify our commitment to blending traditional wisdom with modern scientific advancements:

Red Algae Seaweed Serum with Hyaluronic Acid: This breakthrough formulation harnesses the power of Gracilaria Conferta Extract—a rare red seaweed renowned for its exceptional hydrating properties. Enhanced with Borage Olive Oil and stabilized Vitamin C derivatives, this serum delivers multiple benefits:

Replenishes moisture at the cellular level
Protects against environmental free radicals
Brightens complexion and evens skin tone
Enhances skin's natural luminosity
Improves elasticity for a youthful bounce

The science behind this serum lies in seaweed's natural humectant properties, which lock in moisture while vitamins A and B12 protect against environmental damage. Additionally, seaweed's ability to support natural collagen and elastin production helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Royal MB – The Ultimate Pro-Aging Face Serum for Smooth Skin: Our most luxurious anti-aging treatment combines centuries-old botanical wisdom with cutting-edge skincare technology. This opulent serum features:

Evening primrose oil and olive oil—time-honored rejuvenators
Gamma-linolenic fatty acid (Vitamin F) for deep nourishment
Hemp oil for calming and balancing properties
A proprietary bioactive complex that targets multiple signs of aging

ROYAL-MB creates a silken veil of nourishment that softens wrinkles, bolsters elasticity, and bestows a youthful luminescence. Its carefully curated blend of jojoba, olive, coconut, sweet almond, grape seed, and moringa oils provides essential fatty acids and antioxidant protection, while therapeutic essential oils of lavender, lemon, rosemary, and tea tree deliver additional benefits.

Both serums demonstrate our commitment to purity and efficacy, formulated without artificial color additives for an authentic skincare experience.

Now let's dive deep into moisturizers.

What Is a Moisturizer?

A moisturizer is designed to hydrate the skin and prevent moisture loss by creating a protective barrier on the skin's surface. A study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science explains that while serums dive deep, moisturizers work primarily on the upper layers of the epidermis to

Lock in hydration
Strengthen the skin barrier
Protect against environmental aggressors
Provide comfort and suppleness to the skin

Moisturizers come in various textures—from lightweight gels to rich creams—formulated to suit different skin types and conditions. They typically contain ingredients like ceramides, natural oils, shea butter, and humectants that attract and retain moisture.

Find out how much moisturizer you should be using.

Dr. M. Bernstein's Anti-Aging Innovation - Cream Moisturizer with Red Algae

Dr. M. Bernstein's Cream represents the pinnacle of our moisturizer technology. This exceptional anti-aging moisturizer combines nature's healing properties with scientific precision to deliver comprehensive skin benefits.

The powerful formula features Gracilaria Red Seaweed harvested from the eastern Mediterranean shores. After specialized processing that preserves its natural benefits, this unique ingredient works to:

Combat visible wrinkles
Firm and tighten the skin
Provide deep hydration in all seasons
Impart a youthful, radiant glow

The formula is further enhanced with key ingredients including:

Rosemary for soothing irritated skin
Hyaluronic Acid for maximum moisture retention
Olive oil rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants

This concentrated blend of plant extracts, vitamins, minerals, and natural oils makes this moisturizer suitable for all skin types, delivering premium care that your skin deserves.

Serum vs. Moisturizer: Key Differences

Understanding the fundamental differences between these two product types helps clarify why their application order matters in the skincare routine:

What Goes First, Serum or Moisturizer?

Now comes the most important question: What goes first, serum or moisturizer?

The golden rule in skincare is to apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency. Following this principle, serums should be applied before moisturizers.

This application order maximizes the benefits of both products for several important reasons

Optimal Penetration: Applying serum first allows its concentrated active ingredients to reach deeper layers of the skin without having to penetrate through a moisturizer barrier.
Enhanced Efficacy: The active ingredients in serums work more effectively when they have direct contact with clean skin. Because oil repels water, applying an oil-based moisturizer before a water-based serum might keep the skin from absorbing the ingredients in the serum.
Sealed Benefits: Following with a moisturizer creates a protective barrier that locks in the serum's active ingredients, preventing them from evaporating and maximizing their effectiveness.
Barrier Protection: The moisturizer completes the routine by strengthening the skin barrier and preventing transepidermal water loss.

How Long Should You Wait to Put Moisturizer on After Serum?

For optimal absorption, dermatologists recommend waiting approximately 30-60 seconds after applying serum before following with moisturizer. This brief waiting period allows the serum to penetrate the skin properly without fully drying out the skin's surface. If you're using multiple serums, apply them from thinnest to thickest consistency, waiting 30-60 seconds between each application.

A good rule of thumb is to wait until the serum feels mostly absorbed but before your skin feels dry or tight.

Do I Need Both Serum and Moisturizer?

While a basic skincare routine order can function with just cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen, incorporating a targeted serum significantly enhances results for specific skin concerns.

Serums deliver concentrated active ingredients that address specific concerns
Moisturizers hydrate, comfort, and protect the skin barrier

However, certain skin types may benefit from different approaches:

Very Oily Skin: May do well with a hydrating, oil-free serum and a lightweight gel moisturizer
Very Dry Skin: Benefits greatly from using both products, with an emphasis on rich, emollient moisturizers
Sensitive Skin: Should introduce serums gradually, focusing on gentle, soothing formulations

The most effective approach is to tailor your routine to your skin's specific needs rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Creating Your Optimal Skincare Routine

A properly sequenced skincare routine order follows this general order:

Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser appropriate for your skin type
Nourish with Tone and Essences: (Optional) Balance skin pH and prepare for treatments
Targeted Treatments for Skin Concerns: Acne, Anti-aging solutions, hyperpigmentation and dark spots
Moisturizer: Seal in previous products and hydrating

By understanding the science behind what order to apply skincare and following these guidelines, you'll maximize the effectiveness of your skincare investments and achieve healthier, more radiant skin.

Always remember: Your skin is unique, just like you, and it communicates its needs in its special way. Pay attention to how it reacts to different products and treatments. If something doesn't feel right or causes irritation, it's time to make a change. Likewise, if you notice positive results from a particular product or routine, keep doing what works! Trust your skin's signals and let it guide you toward the best care possible.