Top 5 Questions I Get as an Esthetician
If there’s one thing I’ve learned as an esthetician, it’s that everyone has questions about their skin. Whether you’re struggling with acne, curious about product layering, or just trying to build a simple routine that actually works, you’re not alone.
Today I’m answering the top 5 questions I get asked most often—and giving you expert, no-fluff answers that can help you make smarter choices for your skin.
❓ 1. “What’s the best skincare routine?”
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but every good skincare routine should follow this basic framework:
Cleanse (AM + PM)
Hydrate (serum or toner)
Moisturize
Protect (SPF in the morning)
The real magic happens when you customize this routine to your skin type and concerns. Not sure what to use? That’s where a consultation can make all the difference.
❓ 2. “Do I really need to wear sunscreen every day?”
YES—every single day.
Even on cloudy days. Even if you’re indoors near windows. SPF is your first line of defense against premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer.
Esthetician Tip: Look for a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors.
❓ 3. “What causes breakouts if I’m not a teenager anymore?”
Adult acne is real, and it’s often caused by a mix of:
Hormonal shifts (especially around your cycle)
Stress + cortisol spikes
Overuse of harsh products
Poor product layering
Gut or lifestyle imbalances
The key is addressing both external skincare and internal wellness—not just drying out the breakout.
❓ 4. “Can I use multiple actives in one routine?”
Yes, but proceed with caution. Overloading your skin with too many actives (like retinol, acids, and vitamin C) can lead to irritation, dryness, or a damaged barrier.
When layering, use this simple rule:
Thinnest to thickest. Actives → Hydration → Moisturizer → SPF.
And when in doubt, alternate actives (ex: vitamin C in the morning, retinol at night) instead of stacking them.
❓ 5. “How do I know if my skin barrier is damaged?”
Signs of a compromised barrier include:
Redness or irritation
Sudden sensitivity to products
Dry patches or peeling
Burning/stinging sensations
More breakouts than usual
If your skin feels “off,” pull back on exfoliants and actives, and focus on barrier-repairing products like ceramides, niacinamide, squalane, and hyaluronic acid.
💬 Final Thoughts From Your Esthetician
These questions come up all the time—and they prove how much we all just want to understand our skin better. If you’ve been wondering the same things, know that you’re not alone and that small changes in your routine can lead to big results.
Still unsure what your skin is trying to tell you? Book a consult with me and let’s create a customized routine that finally makes sense for you.