An effective skin care routine by Dermatologist, A perfect 3 Step Formula.
Of the many uncertainties in our world, if there is one certainty, it is this: Taking time to care for yourself should no longer be seen as a reward, let alone a luxury. Rather, it’s needed more than ever, for so many reasons.
Taking care of your skin is just as important as taking care of your body through a healthy diet. Fresh and beautiful skin makes a healthy body look even more beautiful
While everyone’s skin is different, and so are their skin issues, concerns, and goals, there are certain skin routine rules that apply universally. These are also known as the basics, and we consulted a number of dermatologists to see exactly what they are and shared skincare tips that apply to both beginners and experts. If you don’t know how to structure your skincare routine (we won’t judge it here) or just want to brush up on the basics, check out our expert-supported beginner’s guide to skincare.
Put together a simple routine and stick to it.
“If it is your first skin care routine, keep it simple,” advises Michele Farber , a Certified Dermatologist in New York City.
Divya Shokeen, a Certified Dermatologist in Torrance, California, says “An important skincare advice is to keep it simple and also Start with the basics and expand as needed.”
Those basics should always include the following three steps, executed in the following order:
Step 1: To Clean.
As a rule of thumb, it is ideal to clean your skin twice a day (once in the morning and once in the evening). Cleansing in the morning is ideal for removing traces of sweat and oil left on your pillows and hair during beauty sleep, explains Divya Shokeen.
When choosing a cleanser, experts say beginners should choose a mild, hydrating cleanser. “Any skin type can tolerate a moisturizing cleanser,” says Michele Farber. Also she says, look for one that’s fragrance-free, has minimal ingredients (to avoid irritation), and contains ceramides and glycerin to restore and maintain the skins barrier.
Cleanser options that have proven to be ideal for skin-care beginners include CeraVe Moisturizing Cleanser (winner of the Best of Beauty 2019 award) and Cetaphil’s beloved Gentle Skin Cleanser (winner of several Best of Beauty awards).
2nd Step: To Moisturize.
Use a moisturizer or moisturizing product. “I generally recommend an oil-free, fragrance-free moisturizer, as it will be well tolerated by [all] skin types, from the most sensitive to acne-prone,” says Michele Farber.
Dermatologists’ favorite moisturizers include La Roche Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, Vichy Aquaria Thermal UV Defense Moisturizer, and Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, don’t think you can (or should) go without your daily moisturizer. “Over-washing without the use of appropriate Moisturizer causes the skin to produce excess sebum,” says Divya Shokeen.
However, those with oily skin should look for non-comedogenic moisturizers. “The term non-comedogenic on the product label means that the ingredients won’t clog pores or cause further breakouts” explains Divya Shokeen.
Her favorite non-comedogenic moisturizer for oily skin are Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer and EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer.
Step 3: To Protect.
“Sunscreen is your first line of defense and protection against skin cancer.” Says Michele Farber. “If you’re doing nothing else for your skin, sunscreen is the most important thing.”
Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and always apply it daily (even if it’s cloudy) as the last step in your skin care routine. Some quality options:
EltaMD UV Active Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen 50+, Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 and Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion for Face SPF 50 are specially formulated for sensitive skin.
Add in steps as needed (or as wanted).
Once you have the basic routine, you can add steps here and there as needed. A good start is with Exfoliation, using Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), added as an extra step once or twice a week, in a variety of ways to remove excess buildup on the skin’s surface.
Additional add-on steps that can be turned on and off to your routine as needed include Serums and Masks. Face Serums are powerful, lightweight topical cosmetics targeted at more specific skin concerns with high concentrations of active ingredients such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. There is a general rule of thumb is to apply products of thinner consistency under thicker products like moisturizers and oils.
Have patience and stay consistent.
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