How to Build the Best Daily Skincare Routine, According to Dermatologists

Shirin
4 min readApr 4, 2023

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Photo by Fleur Kaan on Unsplash. Note, that some links in this post are affiliate links. I might be compensated by third parties if you purchase recommended products or services.

One time, I was chatting with a friend who was admiring my seemingly perfect skin. She asked me what my secret was, and I gave her the usual spiel about drinking plenty of water and getting enough sleep. But she wasn’t buying it.

“No, seriously,” she said. “What products do you use?”

I listed off my favorite cleansers, toners, and moisturizers, but her eyes started to glaze over. “Wow, that sounds like a lot of work,” she said. “I don’t have the time or energy for all that.”

I couldn’t blame her. With so many products on the market, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to use and when. But the truth is, a good skin care routine doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. In fact, it can be downright enjoyable (yes, really!). So, let me share with you my favourite skin care routine steps that will have you glowing in no time.

  1. Cleansing: The First Step to Great Skin

Removing makeup, dirt, and excess oil is essential for keeping your skin clean and healthy. But, with so many different cleansers out there, how do you know which one is right for you? It all depends on your skin type. If you have oily skin, go for a gel or foam cleanser that will help control excess oil. If your skin is normal or dry, opt for a cream or lotion-based cleanser that will add moisture while cleansing. And, always make sure to double cleanse if you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen to ensure a deep clean.

Best Cleanser For Oily Skin

  1. Forest Essentials Delicate Facial Cleanser
Link to buy

2. The Face Shop Jeju Aloe Fresh Soothing Foam Cleanser

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3. Innisfree Green Tea Foam Cleanser

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Best Cleanser For Dry/Normal Skin

  1. Neutrogena Deep Clean Foaming Cleanser
Link to buy

2. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

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3. Simple Kind To Skin Moisturising Facial Wash

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2. Moisturizing: Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Moisturizing is the key to keeping your skin hydrated and supple. Look for a moisturizer that contains both humectant and occlusive ingredients. Humectants like hyaluronic acid and urea draw water into the skin, while occlusives like petrolatum and mineral oil create a barrier to prevent water loss. If you have oily skin, go for a lightweight gel or lotion. If your skin is dry, opt for a cream or ointment that will provide extra hydration. And, don’t forget to moisturize your neck and chest too!

Best Moisturizer For Dry Skin

  1. Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing — Moisturizer
Link to buy

2. Venusia Max Intensive Moisturizing Cream

Best Moisturizer For Oily Skin

  1. Dermafique Hydratonique Gel
Link to buy

2. Plum Green Tea Oil Free Moisturizer

Link to buy

3. Protection: Sunscreen is Your Best Friend

We all love a little sun-kissed glow, but the harsh truth is that prolonged sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature aging and skin damage. That’s why daily sunscreen application is crucial in any skincare routine. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and make sure it has at least SPF 30. Zinc oxide and avobenzone are both great active ingredients to look out for. Apply your sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine, and don’t forget to reapply every few hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.

Check out my post to find the best sunscreens suitable for Indian skin.

PS: Here is the reference for the research paper used for this article.

Shirin

follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiantroutine_/

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Shirin

Science-backed skincare and health content. 🧪💊