How To Build a Skincare Routine

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Building a skincare routine can be simple and effective if you tailor it to your skin type and specific needs. Here's a step-by-step guide that I use when helping others create a routine:

1. Identify Your Skin Type

Understanding your skin type is key to selecting the right products. The common skin types are:

• Normal: Balanced, not too oily or dry.

• Oily: Prone to excess oil, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin).

• Dry: Lacks moisture, may feel tight or flaky.

• Combination: A mix of dry and oily areas, often with an oily T-zone.

• Sensitive: Prone to redness, irritation, and reactions to products.

2. Determine Your Skin Goals

Identify any specific skin concerns you want to address, such as:

• Acne or blemishes

• Aging and fine lines

• Hyperpigmentation or dark spots

• Dehydration

• Redness or sensitivity

3. Build Your Basic Skincare Routine

A good skincare routine typically involves 4 main steps, but you can adjust this based on your skin type and goals:

Morning Routine:

1. Cleanser:

   Cleansers help remove dirt, sweat and oils that build up overnight.

   • Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser like this Hydrating Cleanser if you have dry skin, or a gel-based cleanser like this Gel Cleanser if you have oily skin.

2. Toner (optional):

   • If you want extra hydration, you can use a hydrating toner similar to this one.

   • If you’re dealing with acne or oiliness, use a toner with ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide. I highly recommend this one.

3. Serum (optional):

   Serums target more specific needs, so use them after toner.

   • For brightening concerns, use a serum packed with ingredients such as Vitamin C like this Vitamin C Serum.

   • For anti-aging concerns or acne, use a serum packed with ingredients such as retinol like this Retinol Serum.

   • For dry skin concerns, use a serum packed with active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid like this Hyaluronic Acid Serum.

4. Moisturizer:

   Even oily skin needs moisture to maintain a healthy balance.

   • Choose a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer if you have oily skin, or a richer, thicker one if your skin is dry.

     As an oily skin girl, this moisturizer is my go to.

5. Sunscreen:

   Use sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days.

   • Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from UV damage and prevent premature aging and skin cancer. I love and always recommend this sunscreen because it is lightweight and leaves no white- cast.

Evening Routine:

1. Cleanser:

   • Cleanse your face to remove makeup, dirt, and pollution from the day.

   • Consider a double cleanse if you wear makeup (first with an oil-based cleanser, then with a regular cleanser).

2. Toner (optional):

   • Again, choose one suited to your skin’s needs (hydrating, balancing, or soothing).

3. Treatment (optional):

   • Evening is the best time for stronger treatments, like a retinol serum (for anti-aging) or a targeted acne treatment.

   • Be cautious with active ingredients—retinol can be irritating, so start with a lower concentration and gradually increase.

4. Moisturizer:

   • Use a richer moisturizer at night if your skin is dry or if you want added hydration while you sleep.

   • For oily skin, a lighter moisturizer or gel can work well.

5. Eye Cream (optional):

   • If you're concerned about dark circles or puffiness, consider an eye cream with caffeine, hyaluronic acid, or peptides.

   • This step is optional, depending on your needs.

4. Consider Adding Exfoliation

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving your skin smoother and brighter. You can incorporate exfoliation into your routine 1-2 times a week, but don't overdo it as it can irritate the skin.

• Physical exfoliants (scrubs) can be harsh, so use them sparingly.

• Chemical exfoliants (like AHAs or BHAs) are gentler and more effective at sloughing off dead skin cells.

5. Adjust for Your Skin's Needs

• If you have acne: Look for products with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or niacinamide to fight breakouts.

• If you have dryness: Focus on hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides.

• If you’re aging: Introduce anti-aging ingredients like retinoids, peptides and antioxidants (like vitamin C).

• For sensitive skin: Stick to fragrance-free and gentle products. Ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile and oatmeal can soothe irritation.

6. Consistency Is Key

Stick to your routine consistently to see results. It may take weeks to see noticeable improvements, especially for concerns like acne, aging, or pigmentation.

Remember, less is often more. Don’t overwhelm your skin with too many products, and always patch-test new products to ensure they work well for your skin.