If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I applying my skincare in the right order?” — you’re not alone.
Using the right products in the wrong order can make even the best skincare ineffective.
This skincare routine guide breaks down exactly what to use, when to use it, and why it matters, so your skin stays balanced, healthy, and glowing year-round.
Why a Proper Skincare Routine Matters
A consistent skincare routine helps:
- Protect the skin barrier
- Improve hydration and moisture balance
- Reduce breakouts and congestion
- Support anti-aging and skin renewal
- Enhance results from professional facials and peel treatments
Your routine doesn’t need to be complicated — it needs to be correct.
Morning Skincare Routine (AM)
Your morning routine focuses on protection and hydration.
1️⃣ Cleanser
Use a gentle cleanser to remove oil and sweat without stripping the skin.
✔ Avoid harsh foaming cleansers in winter or dry climates like Edmonton.
2️⃣ Hydrating Serum
Apply a lightweight hydrating serum to replenish water in the skin.
Look for:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Panthenol
3️⃣ Moisturizer
Moisturizer seals hydration into the skin and supports the barrier.
Choose based on your skin type:
- Lightweight for oily skin
- Richer for dry or winter-stressed skin
4️⃣ Sunscreen (SPF)
SPF is non-negotiable — even in winter.
Daily sunscreen protects against:
- Premature aging
- Pigmentation
- Barrier damage
Evening Skincare Routine (PM)
Your evening routine focuses on repair and recovery.
1️⃣ Cleanser
Double cleanse if you wear makeup or sunscreen to fully remove buildup.
2️⃣ Treatment Products (Optional)
This is where actives like exfoliants or corrective serums may go.
✔ Use exfoliants only as recommended.
✔ Overuse can damage your skin barrier.
3️⃣ Hydrating Serum
Hydration is just as important at night as it is in the morning.
4️⃣ Moisturizer or Barrier Cream
A richer night moisturizer helps repair the skin while you sleep.
Look for:
- Ceramides
- Fatty acids
- Squalane
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells — but too much causes irritation.
General guideline:
- Gentle exfoliation: 1–2 times per week
- Professional peel treatments: every 4–6 weeks
✨ Enzyme exfoliation and gentle peel treatments are safer and more effective than harsh scrubs.
How Professional Treatments Fit Into Your Routine
At-home skincare works best when paired with professional care.
Facials and peel treatments:
- Reset the skin regularly
- Improve product absorption
- Address concerns like texture, acne, and dullness
- Prevent long-term damage
✨ Monthly facials and seasonal peel treatments help maintain healthy skin all year.
Common Skincare Routine Mistakes
- Applying products in the wrong order
- Using too many actives at once
- Skipping SPF
- Over-exfoliating
- Not adjusting skincare seasonally
A professional facial helps correct these issues before they cause damage.
Best Facials to Support Your Skincare Routine at Ma-Arteh
Recommended treatments include:
- Moment of Purity Facial for balance and clarity
- Mystical Glow Boosting Facial for exfoliation and glow
- Majestic Radiance Aqua Facial for hydration
- Peel Treatments for texture and brightness
Each facial is customized to complement your home routine.
The Bottom Line
A good skincare routine doesn’t need 12 steps — it needs the right steps, in the right order, done consistently.
When your routine and professional treatments work together, your skin stays clear, strong, and radiant.
📅 Book a Skincare Routine Reset in Edmonton
Not sure if your routine is working for your skin?
🔗 Book a facial at Ma-Arteh Beauty Studio and Medispa
and let a professional guide your skincare routine for real results.