How to Build a Simple Yet Effective Skincare Routine
With thousands of products, trends, and ingredients out there, building a skincare routine can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: your routine doesn’t need to be complicated to be effective. In fact, keeping it simple is often the best thing you can do for your skin.
As an esthetician, I help clients every day cut through the noise and create skincare routines that actually work—without 12 steps or guesswork. Here’s how to build a basic but powerful skincare routine that supports healthy, glowing skin.
🧼 Step 1: Cleanser (AM + PM)
Your cleanser is the foundation of your routine. It removes dirt, oil, makeup, and environmental buildup so your other products can do their job.
✔️ Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser
✔️ Avoid foaming cleansers if you have dry or sensitive skin
✔️ Double cleanse at night if you wear makeup or SPF
Esthetician tip: Skin should feel clean—not tight—after cleansing.
💧 Step 2: Hydrating Toner or Serum
After cleansing, your skin is more receptive to hydration and treatment. A toner or serum replenishes moisture and preps your skin for the next steps.
✔️ Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe
✔️ If using a toner, choose one that’s alcohol-free
✔️ Pat, don’t rub—it helps the product absorb better
🎯 Step 3: Treatment (Optional)
This step targets specific skin concerns like acne, dark spots, or fine lines. Treatments can include:
Vitamin C (for brightening and antioxidant protection)
Retinol or bakuchiol (for anti-aging or texture)
Niacinamide (for redness, oil regulation, or pore care)
Hydroxytyrosol (for inflammation and barrier repair)
Start slow—introduce one active at a time and use it a few times per week until your skin adjusts.
🧴 Step 4: Moisturizer
Everyone—yes, even oily skin types—needs a moisturizer. It locks in hydration, supports your skin barrier, and keeps everything balanced.
✔️ Choose gel-based for oily/combo skin or cream-based for dry skin
✔️ Look for ingredients like ceramides, squalane, and fatty acids
✔️ Use a lighter formula in the morning and a richer one at night (if needed)
☀️ Step 5: SPF (AM Only)
If you do nothing else, wear SPF daily. UV damage leads to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and increased sensitivity.
✔️ Choose SPF 30 or higher
✔️ Mineral-based (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) is best for sensitive skin
✔️ Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outside or exposed to sunlight indoors
🔄 Keep It Consistent
The best skincare routine is one you’ll actually stick with. You don’t need every trending product—you just need a solid foundation and consistency.
🧖♀️ Bonus Tips from Your Esthetician
Don’t skip your nighttime routine—your skin regenerates while you sleep.
Introduce one new product at a time to avoid irritation.
Listen to your skin. Tightness, burning, or flaking means it’s time to simplify.
Less is more—quality and consistency always beat quantity.
💬 Final Thoughts
Skincare doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few high-quality products used consistently can completely change your skin. If you're not sure where to start, begin with the basics: cleanse, hydrate, moisturize, and protect. Then, build from there based on your personal skin goals.
Need help customizing your routine? Book a consultation and I’ll help you create a skincare plan that fits your skin, your lifestyle, and your budget.