Skincare can feel overwhelming, with endless products and advice. The truth is that a simple skincare routine for beginners only needs a few steps done consistently. Here's exactly what to use, morning and night.
The 4 basics everyone needs
- Cleanser: removes dirt, oil and sunscreen.
- Treatment serum (optional): targets your main goal.
- Moisturizer: keeps skin hydrated and comfortable.
- Sunscreen: the most important step every morning.
Morning routine
- Cleanse with a gentle, non-stripping face wash.
- Serum: vitamin C for a brighter-looking complexion, or niacinamide for a smoother, more even look.
- Moisturize with a lightweight cream.
- Sunscreen, generously, every day, even when it's cloudy.
Night routine
- Cleanse to remove the day (double cleanse if you wear makeup or heavy sunscreen).
- Treatment: retinol a few nights a week once your skin is used to your routine, or a hydrating serum.
- Moisturize with a soothing cream.
Choosing a serum for your skin goal
- Dull skin: Vitamin C Serum in the morning.
- Uneven-looking texture: Niacinamide Serum.
- Dehydrated skin: Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
- Fine lines: Retinol Serum or Retinol Night Cream at night, starting 2–3 times a week.
5 beginner rules
- Introduce one new product at a time, about 1–2 weeks apart.
- Patch test new products for 24 hours.
- Don't mix strong actives (retinol, acids) on the same night when starting out.
- Give a routine at least 4–6 weeks before judging it.
- Sunscreen every morning, especially when using retinol or acids.
FAQ
Do I really need a serum?
No. Cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen are enough to start. Add a serum when you want to target something specific.
Can I use vitamin C and retinol in one routine?
Yes: vitamin C in the morning, retinol at night.
How do I know my skin type?
Cleanse, wait an hour without products and notice how your skin feels: tight (dry), shiny all over (oily), shiny in the T-zone only (combination) or comfortable (normal).
Not sure where to start? Take our skin quiz or shop best sellers.
For general information only. Consult a dermatologist for skin concerns.
— Written by the Pure Skin Lab team