Best Ingredients for Brightening Mature Skin: What Actually Works for Menopausal Women

Brightening Mature Skin

Are you overwhelmed by the endless array of brightening ingredients flooding the skincare market? Vitamin C, niacinamide, kojic acid, alpha arbutin - the list goes on. When you’re navigating menopause and dealing with dull, uneven skin, how do you know which ingredients actually deliver results for mature skin versus which are just marketing hype?

The truth is, not all brightening ingredients are created equal, and what works beautifully on younger skin may be too harsh or ineffective for hormonally challenged mature skin. Let’s cut through the confusion and explore the scientifically-proven ingredients that genuinely brighten menopausal skin without causing irritation, sensitivity, or disappointment.

Why Mature Menopausal Skin Needs Different Ingredients

Before diving into specific ingredients, it’s crucial to understand why your skin’s needs have changed dramatically during menopause. Your skin isn’t simply “older” - it’s fundamentally different at the cellular level.

Hormonal Impact on Ingredient Tolerance

Declining oestrogen levels during menopause trigger a cascade of skin changes that affect how your skin responds to active ingredients:

• Increased sensitivity means ingredients that never bothered you before may now cause irritation
• Compromised barrier function makes skin more vulnerable to harsh or aggressive actives
• Reduced natural moisture requires gentler formulations that don’t further strip skin
• Slower healing means any irritation takes longer to resolve
• Thinner skin is more susceptible to damage from potent ingredients

This is why brightening ingredients that work wonders for 30-year-olds can wreak havoc on menopausal skin. You need ingredients that are both effective AND gentle enough for your sensitive, reactive complexion.

The Cellular Slowdown

Cell turnover rates decrease by approximately 50% between your 20s and 50s. This means:

• Dead skin cells accumulate on the surface, creating dullness
• Pigmented cells linger longer, making dark spots more persistent
• Active ingredients take longer to show visible results
• Skin requires more support to maintain brightness and clarity

Effective brightening ingredients for mature skin must work with these slower cellular processes rather than trying to force rapid change that can damage delicate skin.

The Science of Skin Brightening: What You Need to Know

Understanding how brightening ingredients work helps you make informed choices about what belongs in your routine.

Melanin Production and Regulation

Melanin - the pigment responsible for skin colour and dark spots - is produced by melanocytes in your skin’s basal layer. The enzyme tyrosinase triggers melanin production, and various factors (UV exposure, hormones, inflammation) can drive this process into overdrive, leading to hyperpigmentation.

Effective brightening ingredients work through several mechanisms:

• Tyrosinase inhibition – Blocking the enzyme that triggers melanin production
• Melanin transfer disruption – Preventing melanin from moving to surface skin cells
• Cellular turnover acceleration – Helping pigmented cells shed more quickly
• Antioxidant protection – Neutralising free radicals that trigger pigmentation
• Anti-inflammatory action – Reducing inflammation that can stimulate melanin production

The best brightening treatments for mature skin utilise multiple mechanisms simultaneously for comprehensive results.

Essential Brightening Ingredients for Menopausal Skin

Let’s explore the most effective, well-researched brightening ingredients suitable for mature, sensitive skin:

Vitamin C and Advanced Derivatives

Why It Works: Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is one of the most researched brightening ingredients in dermatology. It inhibits tyrosinase, neutralises free radicals, and supports collagen production - making it particularly valuable for mature skin that needs both brightening and anti-aging benefits.

The Menopausal Skin Challenge: Traditional L-ascorbic acid can be highly irritating, especially at the concentrations needed for brightening (15-20%). It’s also notoriously unstable, oxidising quickly when exposed to air and light, rendering it ineffective.

The Solution: Advanced vitamin C derivatives like Chromabright® offer superior stability and gentleness whilst delivering powerful results. These next-generation compounds deliver the brightening benefits of vitamin C without irritation, making them ideal for sensitive menopausal skin.

Chromabright® specifically refines skin tone by inhibiting melanin production at the cellular level. It also provides ongoing protection against UV radiation damage - crucial for preventing new pigmentation whilst fading existing spots. For Australian women who’ve spent decades under intense sun, this dual protective and corrective action is invaluable.

Evidence: Clinical studies demonstrate that advanced vitamin C derivatives effectively reduce hyperpigmentation, improve skin luminosity, and even out skin tone without causing the irritation associated with traditional formulations.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Why It Works: Niacinamide is a multitasking powerhouse particularly well-suited to mature skin. It reduces melanin transfer from melanocytes to surface skin cells, effectively preventing dark spots from becoming visible. Additionally, niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, reduces inflammation, regulates oil production, and improves skin texture.

The Menopausal Skin Advantage: Unlike many brightening ingredients, niacinamide is inherently gentle and suitable for even the most sensitive skin. It actually supports barrier repair - a crucial benefit when menopause has compromised your protective skin barrier.

Optimal Concentration: Research shows that 2-5% niacinamide delivers excellent brightening results without irritation. Higher concentrations don’t necessarily improve efficacy and may cause sensitivity in some individuals.

Evidence: Multiple studies confirm that niacinamide significantly reduces hyperpigmentation, improves skin tone evenness, and enhances overall radiance. A 2011 study found that 5% niacinamide reduced hyperpigmentation by 35-68% after 8 weeks of use.

Marine-Derived Brightening Compounds

Why They Work: Marine biotechnology has revolutionised skincare, yielding remarkably effective brightening ingredients derived from ocean organisms. These compounds work through sophisticated mechanisms that regulate melanin production whilst providing antioxidant protection.

The Natural Advantage: Marine-derived ingredients like Brighlette™ offer decisive brightening action with exceptional gentleness - perfect for reactive menopausal skin. Because they’re derived from natural marine sources, they tend to be better tolerated than synthetic alternatives.

Clinical Evidence: Brighlette™ has demonstrated impressive results in scientific studies:

• Reduces dark spot contrast by 12.7%
• Contracts hyperpigmented areas by 6.9%
• Decreases melanin pigment by up to 61.1%

These documented results provide genuine hope for women over 50 dealing with stubborn pigmentation that hasn’t responded to other treatments.

Additional Benefits: Beyond brightening, marine ingredients often provide antioxidant protection, hydration, and anti-inflammatory benefits - comprehensive support that mature skin desperately needs.

Alpha Arbutin

Why It Works: Alpha arbutin is a naturally-derived compound (extracted from bearberry plants) that inhibits tyrosinase activity, reducing melanin production. It’s considered one of the safest and most effective brightening ingredients available.

The Menopausal Skin Advantage: Alpha arbutin is remarkably gentle, making it suitable for sensitive, reactive skin. Unlike its synthetic cousin, hydroquinone (which carries significant risks and is banned in many countries), alpha arbutin provides effective brightening without harsh side effects.

Optimal Concentration: Studies show that 1-2% alpha arbutin delivers excellent results. It works synergistically with other brightening ingredients, enhancing overall efficacy.

Evidence: Research demonstrates that alpha arbutin significantly reduces hyperpigmentation, particularly when combined with other brightening actives. It’s especially effective for melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Kojic Acid

Why It Works: Kojic acid, derived from fungi used in Japanese sake production, inhibits tyrosinase and provides antioxidant protection. It’s particularly effective for stubborn pigmentation that hasn’t responded to other treatments.

The Menopausal Skin Challenge: Pure kojic acid can be irritating, particularly for sensitive mature skin. However, when formulated adequately at appropriate concentrations and combined with soothing ingredients, it can be remarkably effective without irritation.

Optimal Concentration: 1-2% kojic acid in well-formulated products provides brightening benefits with minimal risk of irritation.

Evidence: Studies confirm kojic acid’s effectiveness in reducing various types of hyperpigmentation, including melasma and age spots.

Liquorice Root Extract (Glabridin)

Why It Works: Glabridin, the active compound in liquorice root extract, inhibits tyrosinase and provides anti-inflammatory benefits. The anti-inflammatory action is particularly valuable because inflammation can trigger melanin production.

The Menopausal Skin Advantage: Liquorice root extract is exceptionally gentle and soothing - perfect for reactive menopausal skin. It calms irritation whilst brightening, making it ideal for women dealing with both sensitivity and pigmentation.

Evidence: Research shows that glabridin effectively reduces hyperpigmentation, particularly UV-induced pigmentation and melasma. It’s especially effective when combined with other brightening ingredients.

Tranexamic Acid

Why It Works: Originally used as an oral medication to reduce bleeding, tranexamic acid has emerged as a potent topical brightening ingredient. It works through multiple mechanisms: inhibiting melanin production, reducing inflammation, and preventing UV-induced pigmentation.

The Menopausal Skin Advantage: Tranexamic acid is particularly effective for melasma  - the stubborn pigmentation that often worsens during hormonal changes. It’s also well-tolerated by sensitive skin when properly formulated.

Evidence: Studies demonstrate that 2-5% tranexamic acid significantly reduces melasma and hyperpigmentation, with results often visible within 4-8 weeks.

Natural Enzymes (Papain)

Why They Work: Natural enzymes like papain (from papaya) provide gentle exfoliation, accelerating the shedding of pigmented surface cells. Unlike harsh physical or chemical exfoliants, enzymatic exfoliation works with your skin’s natural processes.

The Menopausal Skin Advantage: Enzymatic exfoliation is remarkably gentle - perfect for thin, sensitive mature skin that can’t tolerate aggressive exfoliation methods. It enhances the efficacy of other brightening ingredients by removing dead cell buildup that blocks their penetration.

Additional Benefits: Advanced formulations like Peelmoist™ combine enzymatic exfoliation with deep hydration - a dual benefit that’s particularly valuable for mature skin. This ingredient uses papain to remove dead skin cells whilst simultaneously locking in moisture, addressing both dullness and dryness.

Evidence: Research confirms that regular gentle enzymatic exfoliation improves skin radiance, enhances product penetration, and accelerates the fading of hyperpigmentation.

The Power of Synergistic Formulations

Here’s a critical truth many women don’t realise: single ingredients working alone rarely deliver the dramatic results you’re seeking. The most effective brightening treatments combine multiple complementary ingredients that work through different mechanisms.

Why Synergy Matters:

When properly formulated together, brightening ingredients enhance each other’s efficacy whilst minimising the individual concentrations needed, reducing irritation risk whilst maximising results. This synergistic approach is particularly important for sensitive menopausal skin.

For example, combining:

• A tyrosinase inhibitor (like Chromabright®)
• A melanin transfer disruptor (like a marine compound)
• A gentle exfoliant (like enzymatic Peelmoist™)
• A barrier-supporting ingredient (like niacinamide)

...delivers comprehensive brightening that addresses multiple causes of dullness and pigmentation simultaneously.

Genova Skin Brightening Serum: Synergy in Action

The Genova Skin Brightening Serum exemplifies this synergistic approach, combining three powerful yet gentle brightening actives specifically chosen to work harmoniously for mature, menopausal skin.

The Triple-Action Formula

Chromabright®: Advanced Vitamin C Technology

This revolutionary compound forms the foundation of the Genova formula. Unlike traditional vitamin C, which can irritate sensitive menopausal skin, Chromabright® delivers powerful brightening benefits with exceptional gentleness. It inhibits melanin production at the cellular level whilst providing ongoing UV protection, preventing new pigmentation whilst fading existing spots.

For women who’ve tried vitamin C serums in the past and experienced stinging, redness, or irritation, Chromabright® offers a welcome alternative that actually works without discomfort.

Brighlette™: Marine Biotechnology Excellence

This naturally-derived marine ingredient brings the power of ocean science to your skincare routine. Brighlette™ visibly reduces dark spots through sophisticated melanin regulation whilst providing antioxidant protection.

The clinical evidence speaks for itself:

• 12.7% reduction in dark spot contrast
• 6.9% contraction of hyperpigmented areas
• Up to 61.1% decrease in melanin pigment

These aren’t vague promises - they’re documented results from rigorous scientific testing.

Peelmoist™: Dual-Action Enzymatic Support

This innovative ingredient addresses two critical needs of mature skin simultaneously: gentle exfoliation and deep hydration. Using papain enzyme, Peelmoist™ removes dead, pigmented surface cells whilst locking in essential moisture.

This dual action is particularly valuable because menopausal skin needs both exfoliation to remove dullness and hydration to maintain barrier function and plumpness. Peelmoist™ triggers visible hydration within 24 hours that lasts throughout the day, keeping skin luminous and receptive to the serum’s brightening actives.

Formulated for Menopausal Skin’s Unique Needs

The Genova Skin Brightening Serum is specifically designed for the sensitive, reactive nature of hormonally-challenged skin. It’s dermatologically tested and proven gentle enough for daily use on all skin types - including those with rosacea, sensitivity, or reactive tendencies.

The lightweight texture absorbs effortlessly, without heaviness or greasiness, and sits beautifully under moisturiser and makeup. There’s no tingling, burning, or irritation - just progressive brightening that respects your skin’s delicate state.

Australian-Made Quality and Innovation

Crafted in a state-of-the-art Queensland facility, the Genova Skin Brightening Serum combines cutting-edge biotechnology with pharmaceutical-grade quality standards. The innovative airless packaging preserves ingredient potency for up to 24 months after first use, ensuring maximum efficacy from first pump to last - no oxidation, no degradation, no wasted product.

Ingredients to Avoid for Mature Menopausal Skin

Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to use:

Hydroquinone

Once considered the gold standard for brightening, hydroquinone is now banned in many countries due to safety concerns. It can cause ochronosis (paradoxical darkening), irritation, and potentially serious health issues. Avoid products containing this controversial ingredient entirely - safer, more effective alternatives exist.

High-Concentration AHAs/BHAs

Whilst gentle chemical exfoliation benefits mature skin, high concentrations (>10%) of alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids can severely irritate sensitive menopausal skin, potentially worsening pigmentation through inflammation. If using chemical exfoliants, choose low concentrations (5% or less) and use sparingly.

Retinoids (When Misused)

Retinoids offer multiple benefits for mature skin, including brightening. However, they’re notoriously irritating and must be introduced slowly at low concentrations. Many women abandon retinoids due to irritation, even though they could benefit from gentler formulations or reduced frequency. If incorporating retinoids, do so carefully and separately from other active brightening treatments.

Fragrance and Essential Oils

These common additives offer no skincare benefits and often trigger sensitivity in hormonally challenged skin. Choose fragrance-free formulations whenever possible to minimise the risk of irritation.

Alcohol-Based Products

Alcohol denat and isopropyl alcohol strip your already-compromised skin barrier, exacerbating dryness and sensitivity. Avoid toners, cleansers, and treatments containing these drying alcohols.

How to Build Your Brightening Routine

Creating an effective routine around brightening ingredients requires strategic layering and patience:

Morning Routine

1. Gentle cleanser – Remove overnight oil and prepare skin
2. Genova Skin Brightening Serum – Apply to face, neck, and chest
3. Moisturiser – Lock in serum and provide additional hydration
4. SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen – Non-negotiable for preventing pigmentation

Evening Routine

1. Oil-based cleanser – Remove makeup, sunscreen, and daily grime
2. Water-based cleanser – Ensure thorough cleansing
3. Genova Skin Brightening Serum – Allow skin to benefit overnight
4. Night moisturiser – Support barrier repair during sleep

Weekly Additions

• Gentle enzymatic mask or exfoliant 1-2 times weekly
• Hydrating sheet mask for extra moisture boost
• Professional treatments as desired, and the budget allows

Maximising Ingredient Efficacy: Essential Tips

Getting the most from your brightening ingredients requires more than just application:

Storage Matters

Keep brightening products away from heat, light, and humidity. These environmental factors degrade active ingredients, reducing efficacy. Store in a cool, dark place - not your bathroom.

Consistency Is Key

Brightening ingredients work progressively over weeks and months. Sporadic application delivers sporadic results. Commit to twice-daily application for at least 6-8 weeks before evaluating results.

Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable

UV exposure is the primary trigger for pigmentation. Without diligent daily SPF 50+ application and sun-protective behaviours, even the best brightening ingredients cannot deliver lasting results. Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors.

Patience Produces Results

Unlike injectable treatments or aggressive peels that deliver rapid results, topical brightening works gradually. This gentler approach is actually preferable for mature skin - dramatic overnight changes often come at the cost of irritation, inflammation, or damage that worsens long-term skin health.

Expect initial improvements in overall radiance within 2-3 weeks, with progressive lightening of pigmentation becoming visible around 6-8 weeks of consistent use.

Consider Professional Guidance

If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn pigmentation or multiple skin concerns, consulting a dermatologist or experienced aesthetician who specialises in mature skin can help optimise your routine and potentially incorporate professional treatments that complement your home care.

Lifestyle Factors That Support Ingredient Efficacy

Even the best ingredients work better when supported by healthy lifestyle habits:

Antioxidant-Rich Diet

Your skin reflects what you eat. Load your plate with colourful fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C, E, and A. These dietary antioxidants work synergistically with topical treatments to brighten skin from within.

Adequate Hydration

Drink at least two litres of water daily. Well-hydrated skin appears plumper and more radiant, making pigmentation less noticeable whilst your treatments work.

Quality Sleep

Your skin repairs and regenerates during deep sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours nightly in a calm, dark environment. Consider silk pillowcases to reduce friction and prevent additional damage.

Stress Management

Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which triggers inflammatory responses that can worsen pigmentation - practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or simply activities you find relaxing.

Hormone Balance

Work with your healthcare provider to optimise hormonal balance during menopause. Whether through hormone replacement therapy, bioidentical hormones, or natural approaches, balanced hormones support healthier skin function.

Understanding Realistic Timelines and Expectations

Managing expectations is crucial for staying motivated during your brightening journey:

Weeks 1-2: Enhanced radiance and improved texture as hydration increases and gentle exfoliation begins working. Existing pigmentation unchanged.

Weeks 3-4: Subtle lightening of newer or lighter pigmentation may begin. Overall skin tone appears more even.

Weeks 5-8: Visible reduction in pigmentation intensity. Friends may comment that you look refreshed or rested without being able to pinpoint why.

Weeks 9-12: Continued progressive improvement. Some spots may have faded significantly, whilst others are noticeably lighter.

Beyond 3 Months: With ongoing use, pigmentation continues fading. Focus shifts to maintenance and prevention.

Remember, complete removal of all pigmentation may not be realistic, but a significant improvement absolutely is. The goal is healthier, clearer, more even-toned, radiant skin - and with the right ingredients used consistently, that’s entirely achievable.

Your Roadmap to Radiant Mature Skin

Navigating the overwhelming world of brightening ingredients doesn’t have to be confusing or frustrating. By understanding which ingredients genuinely work for mature menopausal skin and why, you can make informed decisions that deliver real results without irritation or disappointment.

The key is choosing formulations specifically designed for your skin’s unique needs - gentle yet effective ingredients that work synergistically to brighten whilst supporting your compromised barrier and sensitive nature.

The Genova Skin Brightening Serum brings together three of the most effective, well-researched brightening ingredients - Chromabright®, Brighlette™, and Peelmoist™ - in a formula specifically created for Australian women navigating menopause. It’s not about chasing impossible youth or denying your age - it’s about feeling confident and comfortable in your skin at every life stage.

Ready to discover ingredients that actually work for your mature skin? Experience the transformative power of evidence-based brightening with Genova Skin Brightening Serum. Visit the Genova Skincare website to learn more about this scientifically-formulated solution and take the first step towards the radiant, even-toned complexion you deserve.

Your skin deserves ingredients that respect its sensitivity whilst delivering genuine results. The journey to brighter skin starts with making informed choices - and now you have the knowledge to choose wisely.

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5 Essential Questions About Brightening Ingredients for Mature Skin

1. How do I know if a brightening ingredient is too strong for my menopausal skin?

Your skin will tell you clearly if an ingredient is too harsh. Warning signs include persistent redness, burning or stinging sensations, increased sensitivity to products that generally don’t bother you, excessive dryness or flaking, new breakouts, or paradoxical darkening of pigmentation (caused by inflammation). If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue the product immediately and allow your skin to recover before trying a gentler option. The key is understanding that effective brightening doesn’t require discomfort. If an ingredient causes persistent irritation, it’s not suitable for your skin, regardless of its reputation or how well it works for others. Mature menopausal skin requires gentle formulations that work progressively without compromising your already-vulnerable barrier. Products like Genova Skin Brightening Serum are specifically formulated to deliver results without irritation, proving that brightening can be both practical and comfortable. Always patch test new products on a small area before full-face application, and introduce new actives gradually rather than overhauling your entire routine at once.

2. Can I use multiple brightening ingredients together, or will that irritate?

This depends entirely on which ingredients you’re combining and how they’re formulated. Some brightening ingredients work beautifully together, enhancing each other’s efficacy through synergistic action - this is actually the most effective approach to brightening. However, layering multiple separate products containing potent actives can overwhelm sensitive menopausal skin and cause severe irritation. The solution is choosing pre-formulated serums like Genova Skin Brightening Serum, which combine multiple complementary brightening ingredients in optimal concentrations, designed to work together safely. When formulated by professionals who understand ingredient interactions and mature skin needs, multiple brightening actives deliver superior results compared to single ingredients, whilst maintaining gentleness. If you do want to use separate brightening products, introduce them one at a time with at least 2-4 weeks between additions so you can monitor how your skin responds. Generally, avoid combining high-concentration vitamin C with retinoids or strong acids in the same routine—alternate them or use one in the morning and another at night. Always prioritise barrier support and sun protection when using multiple actives.

3. Are “natural” brightening ingredients safer or more effective than synthetic ones?

Neither natural nor synthetic is inherently superior - both can be safe and effective, or potentially problematic, depending on the specific ingredient and formulation. Some naturally derived ingredients, such as liquorice root extract, alpha arbutin, and marine compounds, are remarkably gentle and effective for mature skin. However, natural doesn’t automatically mean safe - many plant-derived ingredients can be highly irritating or allergenic. Similarly, synthetic ingredients like Chromabright® offer superior stability, efficacy, and gentleness compared to their natural counterparts. The best approach for mature menopausal skin is choosing ingredients - whether natural or synthetic - that are backed by scientific research, appropriately formulated, and proven gentle for sensitive skin. The Genova Skin Brightening Serum combines the best of both worlds: naturally derived Brighlette™ from marine sources and scientifically advanced Chromabright®, formulated together at optimal concentrations. Focus on efficacy, safety, and suitability for your specific skin rather than whether an ingredient is labelled “natural” or “synthetic.” Evidence-based formulations always trump marketing buzzwords.

4. Why did my previous vitamin C serum irritate my skin when everyone raves about it?

Traditional L-ascorbic acid (the most common form of vitamin C) is notoriously unstable and irritating, particularly at the high concentrations (15-20%) needed for brightening efficacy. Menopausal skin is especially vulnerable to this irritation due to compromised barrier function, increased sensitivity, and thinner skin structure. Additionally, many vitamin C serums have low pH levels (around 3.5) to maintain stability, but this acidic pH can burn sensitive mature skin. Other factors contributing to irritation include: poor quality formulations that oxidise quickly (turning brown or orange), high concentrations inappropriate for sensitive skin, or combining vitamin C with other actives that amplify irritation. The solution isn’t avoiding vitamin C altogether - its brightening benefits are too valuable - but rather choosing advanced, stable derivatives like Chromabright® that deliver vitamin C’s benefits without the irritation. These next-generation formulations are specifically designed for sensitive skin, offering gentleness without sacrificing efficacy. If traditional vitamin C failed you, don’t give up on this powerful ingredient - just choose a gentler delivery system designed for mature, reactive skin.

5. How long should I wait between applying different active ingredients in my routine?

This depends on the specific ingredients and their pH levels. As a general rule, wait 1-2 minutes between layers to allow each product to absorb and begin working. However, if you’re combining ingredients with different pH requirements (like vitamin C at pH 3.5 and niacinamide at pH 5-7), waiting 10-15 minutes allows your skin’s pH to rebalance between applications, minimising potential irritation or reduced efficacy. That said, this concern is largely eliminated when you use professionally formulated serums like Genova Skin Brightening Serum, which combine multiple brightening actives in a single product. The chemists have already optimised the pH and formulation for maximum efficacy and compatibility. For mature menopausal skin, simplifying your routine with comprehensive multi-active products is often preferable to layering numerous separate treatments. This approach reduces irritation risk, saves time, and ensures ingredients are formulated to work together optimally. If you do use multiple separate active therapies, an exemplary sequence is: lowest pH to highest pH, thinnest to thickest consistency. Always finish with moisturiser to support barrier function, and never skip SPF in the morning, regardless of your active ingredient routine.