Build Your Skincare Routine

Skincare Routine 101

All doctors agree: the skin is the largest and most important organ. Let’s take care of it and figure out your skincare routine! Start with three basic steps: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Once you have these basics, we can add products to address skin concerns like acne, dryness, wrinkles, and more!

Skincare Routine Basics

To keep your skin healthy, start with three basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. A cleanser removes dirt and oil, helping to prevent breakouts and making other products work better; choose one that suits your skin type, like gel for oily skin or cream for dry skin. Moisturizers add hydration and protect your skin from damage; opt for a lightweight gel if your skin is oily or a richer cream if it's dry. Sunscreen is crucial for protecting against harmful UV rays, preventing sunburn and aging. Use it daily, even on cloudy days, and pick between physical (mineral) or chemical types based on your preference. Apply cleanser twice daily, moisturizer right after cleansing, and sunscreen every morning, reapplying if you’re outside.

Cleanser

  • Purpose: Removes dirt, oil, and impurities; prevents clogged pores and breakouts.

  • Benefits: Preps skin for better absorption of other products.

  • Types: Gel, foam, cream, and oil-based. Choose based on your skin type.

  • Usage: Use a gentle cleanser 1 - 2x daily.

Moisturizer

  • Purpose: Adds hydration, keeping skin soft and smooth; protects the skin barrier from damage and irritation.

  • Types: Choose based on skin type—lightweight gels for oily skin, richer creams for dry skin.

  • Usage: Apply immediately after cleansing; adjust type and amount based on skin needs and season.

Sunscreen

  • Purpose: Protects against UV damage, preventing sunburn, premature aging, and reducing skin cancer risk; helps prevent dark spots and pigmentation.

  • Types: Physical (mineral) or chemical.

  • Usage: Apply every morning, even on cloudy days or indoors; use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours if outdoors.

Okay, I Have My Basics. What Else Should I Add?

Once you have established the foundational skincare routine with a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen, it's time to tackle specific skin concerns. Each person's skin is unique, and addressing particular issues can help you achieve your best complexion. Whether you struggle with acne, dryness, sensitivity, or signs of aging, incorporating the right ingredients can make a huge difference. We suggest tackling one issue at a time. Combing too many active ingredients can result in damage to the skin barrier. Here, we'll introduce common skin concerns and the ingredients you can add to your basic routine to target them effectively. Click on a concern to learn more!

Acne

Dryness

Dark Spots

Sensitive

Wrinkles

Repair

Skincare Routine FAQs

What is the Best Skincare Routine Order?

A simple skincare routine includes the following steps:

  1. Cleanse: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.

  2. Treat: Apply treatments like serums or spot treatments for specific concerns.

  3. Moisturize: Hydrate your skin with a moisturizer.

  4. Protect (AM): Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.

What is the Best Skincare Routine?

The best skincare routine is one that is tailored to your skin type and concerns. Generally, it includes:

  1. Morning: Cleanser, antioxidant serum (like Vitamin C), moisturizer, sunscreen.

  2. Evening: Cleanser, treatment serum (like retinoids or AHAs/BHAs), moisturizer.

Can You Do Your Skincare Routine After Shaving?

Yes, you can do your skincare routine after shaving. It's recommended to wait a few minutes after shaving to allow your skin to calm down. Start with a gentle, alcohol-free toner to soothe your skin, followed by a hydrating serum or moisturizer to restore moisture and calm any irritation.

How to Tell Skincare Routine Isn’t Working

Signs that your skincare routine isn’t working include persistent dryness, irritation, breakouts, or lack of improvement in your skin concerns. If your skin feels overly tight, stings, or develops redness after applying products, it might be a sign that your routine needs adjusting.

Do You Use Eye Cream or Serum First?

Apply serum first, followed by eye cream. Serums are designed to penetrate deeper into the skin, so they should be applied before thicker products like eye creams.

Serum or Moisturizer First?

Always apply serum before moisturizer. Serums contain concentrated ingredients that need to penetrate the skin, while moisturizers create a barrier to lock in hydration and protect the skin.