If you’re new to the world of Skincare and perhaps not exactly sure where to start, I’m here to help. The truth is, skincare routines are as individual and unique as those of us who are attempting to follow them. In a nutshell – skincare can mean very different things to different people!

While I am no dermatologist, I believe I can assist you in creating a very basic skincare routine – one which is suitable for most skin types. I’ve even thrown in a few sneaky additions for those who are ready for something a little extra. The following routine will give you the basic building blocks on which to form your own routine. You can then build upon this as you see fit – making adjustments depending on your particular skin goals.

MORNING ROUTINE:
Cleanser: Personally, this is the single most important step of a skincare routine – a successful clean will then allows everything else that follows to penetrate deeper. Cleansing in the morning will remove excess oil, sweat and dead skin cells that could have built up overnight, as well as ensuring you start with a “fresh canvas” so to speak. Afterwards, pat dry with a face towel ready for the next step.

Toner (optional): This step is completely optional. Whilst a routine used to be cleanse, tone and moisurise – these days most professionals will recommend a serum over a toner. If you do want to include this step, consider trying a hydrating toner as opposed to an astringent based one, otherwise you are just further stripping your skin barrier.

Serum: Again, this is optional but highly recommended. A serum is the next step and will follow immediately after your cleanser (or toner if applicable) and before your moisturiser. Choose a serum based on your needs, whether it be hydration or a treatment. Most skin types will benefit from a day-time serum containing Vitamin C or other antioxidants as they can help protect the skin from free-radicals in the environment.

Moisturiser: To begin with, you can of course use the same moisturiser morning and night, just ensure it’s formulated for your needs. For example, an oilier or acne-prone skin type may prefer a moisturiser that is less thick. Personally, I always go for a hydrating moisturiser, but there are so many to choose from, the world is your oyster!

SPF: Find the sunscreen that suits your skin best, in terms of consistency and texture, and apply religiously every day. Sunscreen has come a long way and there are some fantastic lightweight options – the higher the SPF rating, the better! If you are not a fan of too many steps, you can choose a daytime moisturiser that contains SPF and combine the two!

EVENING ROUTINE:
Cleanser: Cleansing at night is super important – to get rid of makeup, sunscreen and all the nasty dirt and pollutants that can accumulate during the day. If you wear heavy makeup or a thick sunscreen, you may need to use a more heavy-duty cleanser at night time, or even double cleanse to ensure you get everything removed effectively. Again, you want to ensure you have a nice clean slate before you apply your serums and moisturisers so they can do their job as intended.

Serum: A night time serum is where you can address a particular skin concern you may have. Whether it be anti-ageing, fine lines and wrinkles, discolouration or acne – do some research and look for serums and effective skincare that are designed to help combat your specific skin concern. Products containing ingredients such as Rentinol or chemical exfoliants (such as AHA’s and BHA’s) are considered “actives” and are best applied at night time ONLY as they can be skin sensitizing. This means they make the skin more sensitive to light and UV rays so it’s vital you always apply sunscreen the following morning also.

Moisturiser: Finally, a moisturiser is the final step, applied directly after your serum. A moisturiser will lock everything in for the night, sealing in all those wonderful ingredients.

Optional extras:
~ Treatments and masks make great additions to any routine, particularly to treat specific concerns. You can add these into your routine once or twice a week as needed, applied onto clean skin, following your cleansing step. Some treatments are designed to be used overnight, in which case they would be the last step in your routine.
~If you are on the oily side, you can’t go wrong with a good clay mask for tightening pores and helping reduce any excess oil. If you have dry or dehydrated skin, sheet masks are great for injecting the skin with much needed moisture and providing some lovely pampering at the same time!
~ Personally, I like to pay attention and listen to what my skin needs on that particular day then choose the skincare product (ie mask or treatment) accordingly. Masks can be used to exfoliate, hydrate, brighten, clear, calm and clarify.

I hope this has been a helpful guide! Of course you can make tweaks to your routine as you figure out what works the best for your skin. You can also make adjustments seasonally – especially in the coldest and hottest months of the year when skin needs can change. Happy skincare routine-ing!