Product guidance

Building an
effective routine.

Formulation efficacy depends not only on which actives you choose, but the sequence, frequency, and combination in which you use them. This page outlines application order, AM/PM differentiation, and how to introduce new actives without compromising barrier function.

Application sequence

Ascending order of
viscosity and molecular weight.

Lowest viscosity first. This allows each formulation to be absorbed before the next is applied — an occlusive or high-viscosity product applied prematurely will impede penetration of subsequent formulas.

What does an AM protocol look like?

The morning routine is oriented toward antioxidant defence and photoprotection. Cleanse with a pH-appropriate, non-stripping formula, follow with an antioxidant serum, then lock in barrier support with a lightweight facial oil before SPF.

For daytime barrier protection, we formulate Lumus Superactive Face Oil to sit under SPF — a feather-light, fast-absorbing oil that reinforces the lipid barrier without disrupting sunscreen application, while its 3% stable Vitamin C adds antioxidant defence against daytime oxidative stress.

What does a PM protocol look like?

The evening routine addresses repair and correction, aligned with the skin’s nocturnal regenerative cycle. Double cleanse if SPF or makeup was worn, apply your active treatment, then finish with an occlusive or emollient step to support barrier repair overnight.

Where Lumus sits as the facial oil step in the AM sequence, Revive Rescue Elixir Face Oil is its night-time counterpart — applied after your active treatment to support barrier repair during the period of peak overnight regeneration. Where retinoid-strength renewal is the goal without the irritation profile of prescription retinoids, our Cell Renewal Bakuchiol Balm can replace Revive as the final PM step, warmed between the fingertips and pressed into cleansed skin.

Where does a weekly treatment fit?

Weekly treatments sit outside the daily AM/PM sequence and shouldn’t be layered under active treatments on the same night, to avoid over-exfoliation or barrier disruption.

Our Dual Resurfacing Clay Mask is used 1–2 times per week as a deep resurfacing, detoxifying, and brightening treatment. Apply to cleansed skin in place of your evening active treatment rather than in addition to it, leave for the recommended time, then follow with Revive or Cell Renewal Bakuchiol Balm as the final step.

How do I introduce a new active safely?

Introduce one product per 5–7 day interval before adding another variable. Patch test on the inner forearm or post-auricular area for 24 hours if skin is reactive, compromised, or previously sensitised. Exfoliating acids and other actives with a defined irritation profile should start at 2–3 applications per week, increasing incrementally as tolerance is established. Mild dryness or minor congestion in the first 1–2 weeks can be a normal adjustment period — reactions that escalate rather than resolve warrant discontinuation and a message to our team.

Which actives shouldn’t be combined?

Exfoliating acids and retinoid analogues (including Cell Renewal Bakuchiol Balm) are best alternated by day or by AM/PM rather than layered together, to avoid cumulative barrier disruption. Vitamin C is best used in the AM alongside SPF for daytime oxidative protection; retinoid analogues belong at night due to associated photosensitivity. Where compatibility is uncertain, simplifying the routine is the more conservative approach.

Every skin presents
differently.

Find your formulation by skin concern, explore the science behind every active, or shop the full range.