Hydrating Serum vs Body Wash: Which First?

Quick answer

Apply the Hydrating Body Wash first, then follow with the Hydrating Serum. The body wash cleanses without stripping moisture, and the serum delivers concentrated barrier support and lasting hydration. They work as a two-step system, not as alternatives.

Trade-offs to consider

• Body wash alone vs. serum alone: Using only the body wash leaves you clean and lightly soothed but without the barrier-repairing ceramides that last beyond the shower. Using only the serum skips the cleansing step, so dirt and sweat can block absorption. They are complementary, not substitutes. For best results, use both in the correct order.
• Time commitment: Adding a serum to your body routine takes about 30–60 extra seconds after your shower. If you are extremely short on time, the body wash still provides hydration during cleansing, but you lose the 24-hour barrier support. If you can spare one minute, the serum significantly upgrades the outcome.
• Cost per use: The body wash costs $8.44 (regularly $12.99) and lasts roughly 4–6 weeks with daily use. The serum costs $11.38 (regularly $16.99) and lasts about 3–4 weeks when used on the body. The set ($14.29) offers a small saving if you plan to use both. If budget is tight, start with the body wash and add the serum when you can.

Product facts at a glance

• Hydrating Body Wash: This nutrient dense body cleanser is designed to intensely hydrate skin in-shower. The creamy, comforting texture glides onto skin and transforms into a rich, foamy lather to effectively cleanse without stripping the skin of essential moisture. Our prebiotic complex helps support the skin microbiome while Beta Glucan and Squalane help to soothe and soften skin. Use this as your first step to clean and prep skin without disrupting the moisture barrier, so the serum can work effectively afterward.
• Hydrating Serum: This ultra-lightweight, moisture-boosting serum is formulated for clinically proven hydration and a strengthened skin barrier. The daily serum delivers a surge of instant hydration & dewy skin finish after just one use, with results clinically proven to last up to 24 hours. Featuring our Tri-Ceramide Complex (Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Fatty Acids) to support skin barrier function. Apply this after drying off. It stays on the skin to reinforce the barrier and lock in moisture for the rest of the day or night.

Which should you choose?

Best for layering

• Anyone who wants a complete body care routine that cleanses without stripping and then actively strengthens the barrier
• People with dry or sensitive body skin who need both gentle cleansing and targeted hydration

Not ideal for

• Someone who only wants a single product and prefers a leave-on treatment (choose the serum alone)
• Someone who only wants a single product and prioritizes cleansing (choose the body wash alone)