How to Layer Body Serums with Other Skincare Products
If you’ve found yourself asking whether the serum goes before or after your lotion, or how to pair multiple actives without overwhelming your skin—you’re in the right place. Body skincare has come a long way from basic lotion, and now your routine can do more: firming, brightening, smoothing, and deeply hydrating, all with smart, targeted steps.
This guide breaks down exactly how to layer your body care—from cleansing and exfoliating to sealing everything in—so your products don’t just sit on your skin, they actually work. With a little know-how (and the right JLO Beauty essentials), you’ll get the kind of results you can see and feel.
Step 1: Cleanse & Exfoliate
Why it matters:
Skincare can’t do its job on top of buildup. Cleansing removes impurities like sweat, oil, and pollution so your skin is a clean slate. Exfoliation then clears away dead skin cells, which improves texture, boosts glow, and—most importantly—allows your serums to absorb properly.
Even the most advanced formula can’t penetrate layers of debris. Without this step, you're simply wasting product. Use a gentle body cleanser daily, and exfoliate 1–3 times a week. That could be a physical scrub, a dry brush pre-shower, or a chemical exfoliant like an AHA body serum. Chemical exfoliants are ideal for smoothing rough patches or treating concerns like body acne or KP (keratosis pilaris).
Pro Tip:
If you use a chemical exfoliant in serum form, it may go on right after cleansing—before other serums—depending on texture and formulation. Always follow product instructions and listen to your skin.
Step 2: Layer Your Body Serums (Thinnest to Thickest)
Why it matters:
Serums are your treatment layer. They’re concentrated, fast-absorbing, and designed to target specific skin goals—whether that’s hydration, firmness, tone, or texture. But to get the most out of them, you need to layer them intentionally.
Always start with your thinnest formula first. Lighter, water-based serums absorb faster and should go on before thicker, oil-based or creamier products. Applying them out of order can block ingredients from working effectively or cause pilling on the skin.
Apply your serums to slightly damp skin post-shower. This helps lock in moisture and allows actives like hyaluronic acid or peptides to penetrate more deeply.
Targeted serum examples:
- Hydration: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides
- Firming + Sculpting: Tighten + Tease® Ultimate AHA Body Serum
- Even tone + Radiance: Vitamin C, niacinamide
- Texture/KP: AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid, BHAs like salicylic acid
- Targeted firming areas: Our booty firming cream is ideal for sculpting and smoothing the appearance of the booty, thighs, and backs of arms.
Let each serum absorb for 60–90 seconds before applying the next.
Step 3: Lock It In with Moisturizer
Why it matters:
Moisturizer doesn’t just add hydration—it locks in all the active ingredients from your serums and supports your skin’s barrier. This is the step that seals your treatment, preventing moisture loss and helping your skin maintain softness and strength throughout the day.
Use a moisturizer that suits your skin type:
- Lighter lotion if you’re prone to oiliness
- Richer cream if you’re dry, sensitive, or mature
The Smooth + Seduce® Hydrating Body Cream is packed with firming peptides and the JLO Beauty Terralume Complex™ to visibly smooth and hydrate without feeling greasy. It’s a powerhouse hydrator with a luxurious, skin-loving finish.
Step 4: (Optional) Body Oil
Why it matters:
Oils don’t hydrate the skin—they seal in moisture. That’s why this step always comes last, after moisturizers and serums. Skipping the oil and relying on it alone will not provide the hydration your skin craves. But layering it on top? That’s how you amplify glow, softness, and protection.
If you're dealing with dry climates, colder months, or you simply want that high-shine, red-carpet finish, body oil can be a game-changer in your routine. Just remember: use sparingly and only after your cream or lotion has absorbed.
Step 5: Sunscreen for Daytime Protection
Why it matters:
No skincare routine is complete without sun protection. Many active ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids can make skin more sensitive to UV damage. Without SPF, you risk undoing all the work your products are doing.
Sunscreen should be the final step in your morning routine for any exposed skin, especially areas you’ve treated with actives. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher to guard against both UVA and UVB rays.
The Right Routine Order, Simplified:
- Cleanse
- Exfoliate (as needed)
- Serums (from thinnest to thickest)
- Moisturizer
- Body oil (optional)
- SPF (morning only)
Make It Easy: Shop the Full Routine
Looking for a one-and-done ritual? We’ve got you covered.
A full-spectrum glow-up in one kit.
Includes:
- All three body essentials, plus:
- That Hit Single® Cleanser
- That JLO Glow™ Serum
- That Blockbuster® Hydrating Cream
- Bonus: Beso Balm® Lip Mask + 2 That Limitless Glow® Sheet Masks
Get the Most Out of Your Skincare Products
Every step in your skincare routine has a purpose—and when done right, your body care ritual becomes more than just self-care. It becomes an act of empowerment.
These formulas were made to work hard for you, delivering proven results through clinically tested, high-performance ingredients. Because your body deserves the same level of care, intention, and luxury as your face.
And with JLO Beauty, your glow truly has no expiration date. Shop our full body skincare collection today and give your skin the love, care, and results it’s been craving.