Written By Finnegan Pierson / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

Normal, visibly glowing skin is rarely possible without an exceptional skincare routine. Whether you have an existing regimen that may need some work or you’re just getting started with a skincare routine, these tips will help you to discover the right approach for you and your skin. 

Consider the Basics

Contrary to popular belief, some of the best skincare routines simply incorporate just a few basic steps for cleanliness, moisture and protection. In fact, it’s more about using the best science-backed basics than it is about using a bunch of products that perform various functions. 

Cleanser

The first step in your skincare routine is also one of the most important. Many harsh cleansers that promise to strip away dirt and oils actually disturb your skin’s protective barrier and can irritate your skin or leave it vulnerable to damage.

A gentle cleanser is ideal for the vast majority of people, as it washes away impurities and leaves your skin’s barrier intact. 

Moisturizer

To both add additional skin moisture and strengthen your skin’s barrier, a moisturizer is a necessary step in any skincare routine. The sooner you can apply a moisturizer after washing your face, the more moisture you will lock into your skin.

Look for lightweight products during the day and make the switch to richer creams or formulas at night as well as in the wintertime when the air tends to be drier. 

SPF

Sun protection is crucial for any skincare routine regardless of season, anticipated sun exposure or outdoor temperature. Sun damage contributes to premature aging, wrinkles, discoloration and abnormal skin cells that can affect your health. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF and be certain to apply it as the last step in your routine for maximum protection. 

Serums 

Though they’re not necessary, skincare serums can help to improve the appearance of skin damage, support skin cell health, exfoliate, fight acne, even your skin tone and improve appearance of wrinkles and signs of aging.

When using serums, check the ingredients to make sure the formulas are compatible with the rest of your routine to avoid unpleasant or irritating reactions on your skin. 

Know Your Skin Type

A moisturizer that works well for someone with oily skin may not be the best option for someone with dry skin no matter how high the ratings and reviews are.

Determine your skin type by observing the areas on your nose, chin and forehead for signs of oiliness, looking to your cheeks to see if the skin seems dry and tight or noting any symptoms you experience when using harsher skincare products. Look for products that are best suited for your skin type, whether sensitive, oily, dry, normal or combination. 

Learn More About the Ingredients

Many who are new to skincare products aren’t entirely familiar with the names and known functions of common skincare ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, ceramides or hyaluronic acid.

Take some time to become acquainted with what each of the ingredients in your products is capable of, and make sure you have all your bases covered when it comes to pH balance, moisture retention, brightening and support. 

Create the Right Sequence

Even the best products used in the wrong order can cause irritation or render some ingredients more or less effective. Many skincare brands have guides on their websites that will help to determine the best order of use in an at-home routine, and these tips are especially important when using ingredients that may react harmfully with others.

Always begin your routine with a cleanser and finish with a moisturizer and SPF but take caution with the steps in between to make sure you’re nourishing your skin adequately and making the most of your products. 

Maintain Consistency

The best skincare outcomes are a result of great products, mindful habits and consistency. No matter how tired you are in the morning or how ready for bed you may be at night, don’t skip your skincare routine. The majority of skincare ingredients don’t work overnight, and it takes time for your skin to respond to the ingredients to produce a healthy, youthful glow. 

Looking for 100% chemical-free, all-natural nourishing face and body oils? Check out Earth & Elm Nourishing Face Oil and Earth & Elm Nourishing Body Oil. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral care, skincare, body care and foot care. If you are looking for more health resources check out the Trusted Health Resources list. 

Written By:

Finnegan Pierson loves business and has a passion for health and technology. Even more interesting is the combination of the two. As a freelance writer, Finn hopes to influence others so they can have positive life experiences.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.