Why thin goes before thick
Think of it like getting dressed: thin layers first, coat last. Watery textures like toners and serums sink in fast, so they go on first, while your skin’s clean. Thicker creams and balms sit on top and help hold water in, so they come later. That’s where the rule of thumb comes from: thinnest to thickest.
Your morning, in order
- Cleanse or rinse
Lukewarm water and your fingertips, then pat dry.
- Serum
Watery layers first. Give it a moment to sink in.
- Moisturizer
A thin, even layer over your face and neck.
- Sunscreen, last
Two finger-lengths for your face, a little more for neck and ears, then makeup if you wear it.
Your evening, in order
- Cleanse
Fingertips and lukewarm water, no scrubbing. Pat dry.
- Treatment, if tonight has one
Retinol or an acid goes on dry skin. Nubia keeps strong ones on separate nights.
- Moisturizer
Straight after, over your face and neck.
- Balm, if you like
On dry nights, a thin layer on the driest spots and your lips.
Bonus round: eye cream and masks
Eye cream slots in after serums and treatments, right before moisturizer, with light taps. A sleeping mask or balm is the last thing on at night. Masks you rinse off go on after cleansing, and once they’re off, you carry on with your usual steps.
Common questions
Do I need all of these steps?
Not at all. Cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning cover the basics. Everything else is extra, and your routine only shows steps for the products you own.
How long should I wait between steps?
Not long. Give each layer a moment to sink in, and put sunscreen on about 15 minutes before you head out. Nubia shows how long each step takes, so you’re never guessing.
Can I use two treatments in one night?
While you’re starting out, keep it to one. Nubia gives strong actives like retinol and acids their own evenings, so if something doesn’t agree with you, it’s easy to tell which one.
Sources
- Face washing 101American Academy of Dermatology, accessed October 18, 2026
- How to apply sunscreenAmerican Academy of Dermatology, accessed October 18, 2026
- How to maximize results from anti-aging skin care productsAmerican Academy of Dermatology, accessed October 18, 2026
- The Role of Moisturizers in Addressing Various Kinds of Dermatitis: A ReviewClinical Medicine & Research (Purnamawati S et al.), accessed October 18, 2026
Reviewed for content and safety by Nubia editorial team. Next review: January 2027.
