Open any social media app you have right now, and you’ll probably be bombarded with twenty different skincare products and routines that each contain a hundred different steps.
While we all want to look like TikTok influencers and achieve that youthful glow, an overly complicated skincare routine isn’t necessarily going to get you there. In fact, using too many different products can be harsh on our skin and do more harm than good.
For a change of pace, consider stripping down to a simple skincare routine with only a handful of quality products. Here’s a list of the essentials:
Cleanser
The one skincare product we all undoubtedly need is a good cleanser. Washing your face every morning and evening is essential for getting makeup, dirt, sweat, oil, and other grime off your face and out of your pores.
Using high-quality face cleansing products is important – but it’s also important that you pick the right cleanser for your skin type. Consider whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin before buying any products.
Toner
The next step in a solid but simple routine is to follow up with a toner. This product will help remove any excess product left on your face from cleansing, as well as ensure that any leftover dirt is completely gone.
A good toner can also help balance the pH of your skin, help with hydration, and prepare your skin to be able to absorb your moisturizer and any other products you might be applying.
Moisturizer
Even for oilier skin types, moisturizing is important. Keeping your skin hydrated helps prevent visible signs of aging, prevents you from dying out, and helps maintain and repair your skin barrier. Plus, it just feels great to apply after a hot shower!
Having a lightweight moisturizer for the daytime and a thicker, more rich one for the evenings is a good idea but not essential. If you wear makeup, try to look for a moisturizer that sits well under your foundation.
Sunscreen
Some moisturizers have SPF in them already, but it’s always advisable to apply sunscreen on top of these anyway. An SPF of 50 is the recommendation that most dermatologists make for daily use, and this should be reapplied regularly on days spent outdoors.
Sun protection is crucial, and we all know why. We need to protect our skin from the sun’s harsh UV rays for both health reasons and aesthetics. This step is non-negotiable!
Exfoliator
The final step in your simple skincare routine is to exfoliate, but only once or twice per week. You could pick a chemical exfoliant (like glycolic acid) or a mechanical one (such as a scrub) depending on your needs, preferences, skin type, and how sensitive your skin is.
When you’re limiting the amount of products you use, you can splash a little more cash on ensuring you purchase items of a higher quality. A cheap exfoliant can be damaging to your skin, so watch out and make sure to monitor your skin for adverse reactions.
