Skincare Essentials for Beginners

1. Cleansers

What It Is: Think of cleansers as a clean canvas. The last thing you want is to apply products to a dirty face. Cleansers are your go-to product for removing dirt, excess oil, and makeup.

When to Use It: This is the ultimate first step in your skincare routine. Ideally, you want to use this at least every morning you wake up before applying anything else. If you plan on using products in the afternoon and night too, feel free to use them again.

How to Use It: I start by cleaning my hands with non-fragrant soap, rinsing them off with water, and gently rubbing the cleanser around my face. I continue rubbing for one minute, letting it sit for 30 seconds, and then rinsing it off and patting it dry with a clean towel.

2. Serums

What It Is: Now, what comes after cleansers is completely up to you. However, I recommend serums next. Serums are like magic potions for addressing specific skin concerns. Whether you’re dealing with acne, dark spots, fine lines, or uneven texture, there’s likely a serum designed to help.

When to Use It: Serums often come right after a cleanser but always before a moisturizer.

How to Use It: Depending on the serum you have, the amount to use differs. Some favorites that I recommend are hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and niacinamide. Most of these require applying one drop of the product to both cheeks, the forehead, and the chin and then spreading evenly throughout the face.

3. Moisturizer

What It Is: Moisturizers are lotions, particularly for your face. It keeps your skin hydrated and helps maintain its natural moisture barrier.

When to Use It: Moisturizers come after all the excess products you apply, like toners, serums, and retinoids. However, it always comes before SPF.

How to Use It: Unlike other products, moisturizers don’t have a specific limit for use or a way to apply them. As long as you spread a decent amount about your face, you should be good.

4. Sunscreen

What It Is: Sunscreen, or SPF, is arguably the most important ingredient in your skincare sandwich. By applying this, you’re protecting yourself from UV rays that cause sunspots, premature aging, and even skin cancer.

When to Use It: This is applied as the very last step in your routine. You want to use it every morning before you leave the house.

How to Use It: Apply two fingers worth across your face.

Here are a couple more tips for a successful routine.

Consistency is Key: Stick to your routine consistently. It may take time to see results, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see instant changes.

Patch Test: When trying new products, patch test on a small area of your skin to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for healthy skin. Hydrate from the inside out.

Be Gentle: Don’t scrub your skin aggressively or use harsh products. Treat your skin with kindness to avoid irritation.

Know Your Skin Type: Understand your skin type (dry, oily, combination, or sensitive) to choose products that suit your specific needs.

Remove Makeup Before Bed: Always, always, always remove your makeup before bed. Your skin needs to breathe while you sleep.

Consult a Professional: If you have specific skin concerns, consider consulting a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized advice.