Millies Guide to Mastering Your Skincare Routine Steps

A solid skincare routine is more than just a self-care ritual — it’s the foundation for healthy, glowing skin. Whether you're just starting out or fine-tuning your regime, understanding the correct skincare routine steps (and using the right products!) is key to achieving your best skin. From energising your skin in the morning to nourishing it at night, we’ve got you covered with this easy-to-follow guide.

Your Easy Morning Skin Care Routine: 

Your morning skincare routine preps your skin to face the day, shielding it from pollution, UV rays, and other stressors. Follow these simple steps to wake up your skin and start your day fresh and radiant.

Step 1. Cleanse

Starting your morning routine with a gentle cleanser will help remove any oils, sweat and residual product from your skin. It also helps your skin to absorb any other product that you’re planning to apply. Wet your face with lukewarm water, then apply a small amount of cleanser to your fingertips. Gently massage it into your skin using circular, upward motions for about 30–60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel.

Step 2. Toner 

Applying a toner as part of your morning skincare routine will help balance your skin’s pH and clear any lingering residue. Once you’ve applied your toner, your skin will be refreshed and prepped for serums and moisturisers to be applied. To apply, either soak a cotton pad and sweep it gently across your face, or pour a few drops into your hands and pat it directly into your skin for a more hydrating touch.

Step 3. Serum

Serums are potent products packed with active ingredients such as Vitamin C, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, so they help protect your skin from free radical damage. Apply a few drops of serum to your face and neck, then gently press it into your skin with your fingertips. Avoid rubbing—patting allows better absorption and is gentler on your skin.

Step 4. Moisturise 

Moisturisers help lock in hydration and create a smooth base for makeup. For comfort throughout the day, we recommend a lightweight formula. Use a pea-sized amount, warm it up between your fingers, and gently smooth it over your face and neck using upward motions. This helps stimulate circulation and prevents tugging on the skin.

Step 5. Sunscreen 

A step that’s often overlooked but an absolutely essential part of any skincare routine, sunscreen should be applied every morning. Use it to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging. Choose SPF 30 or higher and apply it last in your morning routine. Use about a quarter teaspoon for your face, and make sure to cover your ears and neck as well. Reapply throughout the day if you're exposed to sunlight.

Your Simple Night-time Skincare Routine

Your night-time skincare routine is all about repair and renewal. These skincare steps help your skin regenerate while you sleep.

Step 1. Double Cleanse

First, clean your face with an oil-based cleanser to help remove makeup, sunscreen and excess oil. Massage the oil cleanser into dry skin for about a minute to break down impurities, then rinse or wipe off with a soft cloth. Follow this with a water-based cleanser to deeply clean your pores—massage it in for another 30–60 seconds before rinsing off with lukewarm water and gently patting dry.

Step 2. Toner

Use toner again at night to balance and prep your skin for serums. Hydrating toners help retain moisture overnight. Apply just like in the morning—either swipe it on with a cotton pad or press it in using your palms for a more soothing experience.

Step 3. Serums

Nighttime is the perfect time to target skin concerns by using treatment serums with ingredients like retinol, peptides or hyaluronic acid. After cleansing and toning, apply a few drops of your chosen serum to your face and neck. Gently pat it into the skin, giving it time to absorb before moving on to the next step.

Step 4. Moisturise 

Seal in all the goodness with a rich night cream. Night moisturisers often contain restorative ingredients like ceramides or niacinamide to support your skin barrier. Scoop out a small amount, warm it up between your fingers, and smooth it onto your face and neck in upward strokes to lock in hydration and active ingredients overnight.

Should I Use a Cleanser Both Morning and Night?

Yes! Using a cleanser twice a day will have lots of benefits. In the morning, it refreshes your skin and preps it for the day. At night, it removes dirt, oil and makeup. Consistent cleansing helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

How to Use Cleanser? 

Wet your face with lukewarm water, apply a dime-sized amount of cleanser to your hands, massage into your skin in circular motions for 30–60 seconds, and rinse. Pat dry gently with a towel—never rub, as it can irritate your skin.

What Goes First Serum or Moisturiser?

Always apply serum before moisturiser. Serums deliver active ingredients deep into the skin. Moisturiser follows to lock everything in. This is the correct skincare order for maximum benefit and results.

Does Retinol Go Before or After Moisturiser 

Apply retinol before moisturiser unless your skin is sensitive, in which case you can use the “retinol sandwich” method: moisturiser, then retinol, then another layer of moisturiser. This helps buffer the retinol’s intensity while still delivering its benefits.

Hyaluronic Acid Before or After Retinol? 

Use hyaluronic acid before retinol. HA draws moisture into the skin and helps minimise dryness and irritation caused by retinol. Yes, you can use hyaluronic acid with retinol—just layer them correctly, letting HA absorb before applying retinol.

What is the Correct Order to do Skin Care? 

The best skin care routine order is:

1. Cleanser

2. Toner

3. Serum

4. Eye Cream (optional)

5. Spot Treatment (if needed)

6. Moisturiser

7. Sunscreen (morning only)

What is the 4 2 4 Rule in Skincare?

The 4 2 4 rule in skincare is a Korean beauty cleansing technique:

• 4 minutes: massage face with an oil cleanser

• 2 minutes: cleanse with a foam cleanser

• 4 minutes: rinse thoroughly with water

This method boosts circulation and ensures a deep, effective cleanse. It’s great for when your skin needs a detox or extra glow.

Where to Get the Best Skincare Products? 

To build the best skincare routine, you need good skincare products. At Millies, we’re proud to sell only the very best skincare products, from top brands such as Clarins, Environ, Bioderma and more. Whether you're figuring out the order of the 10-step skincare routine or just sticking to the 4 basic skincare steps (cleanse, tone, moisturise, SPF), consistency is key. With the right skincare routine steps and high-quality products, glowing skin is totally within reach.