If you don’t currently have a skincare routine, it can be intimidating to get started. Some regimens have as many as 12, 15, or even 20 steps!
You don’t need a cabinet full of products and an hour of free time each night to take care of your skin. It is a good idea, however, to consistently keep it clean and hydrated. After all, your skin is a living organ just like the rest of your body.
1. Find a Cleanser That’s Right for You
Start with the most basic part of any routine: the cleanser. A dedicated facial cleanser will clean your skin more gently than a bar of hand soap or a body wash.
If your skin is naturally oily, opt for a stronger cleanser. If you have dry skin, it’s important not to dry it out even further with excessive washing or harsh cleansers. Cleansers advertised as “dry skin-friendly” won’t make your face feel raw and red.
2. Add Moisture With a Serum
Swipe on a small amount of serum after your cleanser but before your moisturizer. Think of this step as the “secret ingredient” to your skincare routine. It’s the perfect time to target the beauty results you’d like to see in your skin.
Whichever option you choose with your serum, you’ll lock it in with the next step of your routine. That way, all of the beneficial beautifying ingredients of a great face serum will soak into the skin for peak effectiveness.
3. Pick Separate Moisturizers for Night and Day
It’s best not to splurge on dozens of products when beginning a skincare routine, but moisturizer is one area where it helps to go the extra mile. Treating your day and night moisturizers as different products will help you get the best out of both.
A night moisturizer should be slightly heavier and thicker, so it soaks in while you sleep. A day moisturizer, on the other hand, needs to be lightweight so it can sit under sunscreen and/or makeup.
4. Choose a Sunscreen You’ll Wear Daily
Sunscreen is the cornerstone of any skin care regimen. According to the CDC, you should wear a sunscreen of at least 15 SPF every time you go outside. Choosing a tinted sunscreen that improves the look of your skin can motivate you to swipe it on every day.
Many sunscreens tend to be chalky or overly thick. Consider branching out to Japanese or Korean sunscreen brands that come in thinner formulations. Be aware, however, that many of these ultra-comfortable sunscreens aren’t sweatproof. Keep a smaller size in your purse to ensure you’re always protected from harmful rays.
5. Consider Your Makeup Remover
Don’t rely on your facial cleanser to remove makeup. Many modern makeup brands are designed to stand up to heavy wear, and that means they require some extra effort to remove.
Micellar water is a popular option that’s inexpensive and effective at removing even waterproof makeup. Make sure to thoroughly remove your makeup before using your facial cleanser and completing the next steps of your nightly skincare routine.
6. Reward Yourself for Sticking to Your Routine
Beginning any long-term health commitment is difficult. After the initial excitement fades, it can be tempting to skip steps or abandon your new routine entirely. To prevent this, incorporate a small reward every time you successfully start and finish your skincare regimen.
Here are a few small rewards that can help you achieve your skincare goals:
- Playing your favorite song while you complete your skincare routine
- Setting aside a small treat, such as a square of dark chocolate or a cup of tea, for after you’ve taken care of your skin
- Treating yourself with a small makeup purchase, such as lip gloss, for every week you follow your routine perfectly
Don’t let fear of getting started keep you from taking good care of your skin. With only a handful of products and some determination, you can establish a skincare routine you’ll stick to over time. Your skin will thank you!
