Ask Karen 001: "What Order Should I Apply My Skincare Routine?"

Welcome to our first Ask Karen Q&A! This new monthly series is an opportunity for us to connect with you (our community!), answer your questions and share a little insider insight on the k’pure products you’re loving the most.

This week, we’re clearing up an age-old question: “What is the correct order to apply my skincare routine?” No matter your skin type or goals, there’s a simple structure that makes every step in your routine work harder for you—and it all comes down to four easy steps. Let’s break it down!

Why The Order of Your Skincare Products Matters

Think of your skincare routine like getting dressed: you wouldn’t put on your coat before your shirt, right? The order you apply your products will determine how well they absorb into your skin and how effective their benefits really are. Using products in the right sequence helps you get the most benefits from each step.

The Correct Order for Your Skincare Routine:

Here’s our Founder Karen’s no-nonsense, step-by-step guide:

STEP 1: CLEANSER

Always start with a clean slate—literally, if our oil-based cleanser is your go-to. Cleansing removes dirt, excess oil, SPF, and impurities that can block your other products from working their best. If you wear makeup or sunscreen daily, we recommend starting with Clean Slate for a thorough but gentle cleanse. For a simple, hydrating option that leaves skin soft and refreshed, try our No Filter Creamy Cleanser.

No Filter vs. Clean Slate: Which Cleanser Is Right for You? →

STEP 2: TONER

Next up: toner. This often-skipped step helps rebalance your skin’s pH after cleansing, sweeps away any leftover residue, and preps your skin to drink in hydration. Think of it as the bridge between cleansing and treating—helping your serums and moisturizers absorb more effectively.

STEP 3: SERUM

Serums are your treatment step—packed with concentrated active ingredients. Apply from thinnest to thickest consistency if you’re using more than one. For example, our Eyes Up Caffeinated Eye Serum would go on before a thicker hydrating serum like our No Filter Hyaluronic Serum. Always give each one a few seconds to absorb before moving to the next step.

STEP 4: MOISTURIZER

The final step — seal everything in with your favourite moisturizer. This locks in hydration and keeps your skin barrier happy. If you’re targeting different skin needs, we often suggest having a day and night option — No Filter Weightless Hydrating Moisturizer for a lightweight morning boost, and Drenched Whipped Face & Body Butter before bed for deeper overnight nourishment.

Drenched vs. Go Getter: Which Moisturizer Is Right For You? →

Masks, Exfoliators & SPF

Not all skincare is for everyday use. Here’s where your special treatments belong:

• Exfoliators: Use 2–3 times per week after cleansing and before toner. Rinse thoroughly after exfoliating and pat skin dry, allowing the nourishing oils to soak in.
• Sheet Masks: Use when your skin needs an added drink of hydration. When you’re done with the mask, gently massage any remaining serum into your skin (this replaces the usual step 2). Follow with your chosen moisturizer.
• Clay Masques: Use after cleansing and follow with your favourite k’pure toner, serum, and moisturizer for that full post-mask glow.
• SPF: Use this as the fifth and final step in your morning skincare routine, following your moisturizer.

Ask Karen Your Skincare Questions

Got a burning skincare question? Wondering which k’pure product is right for you, or confused about how to layer your favourites? Ask Karen your skincare question for a chance to be featured on our blog and weekly newsletter.