Basic Skincare Routine for Beginners
If you’re new to skincare, welcome! Whether you’re just starting your skincare journey or you’re trying to get more consistent with your current routine, this guide is for you! As a student esthetician and skincare lover, I know how overwhelming skincare can feel, but I promise, keeping it simple can be the best place to start. 💖
✨Why You Need A Skincare Routine
Skincare isn’t about having a million products; it’s about consistency and knowing what your skin needs. A good routine will help you:
Keep Your Skin Healthy & Hydrated
Prevent & Reduce Breakouts
Improve Texture & Glow
Protect Against Sun Damage & Premature Aging
Let’s break down a routine into 5 easy steps that are beginner-friendly and effective for most skin types!
Cleanser (AM & PM)
Cleansing is the first step to fresh & healthy skin. A gentle cleanser removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin.
🧼 Pro Tip: If your face feels tight or dry after cleansing, switch to a gentler formula.
Beginner-Friendly Faves: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (great for dry skin); La Roche-Posay Foaming Cleanser (great for oily & combo skin)
Toner
This step is optional, but toners can help rebalance your skin’s pH, add hydration, and calm inflammation. They can be a nice boost to any routine. 💧 Opt for an alcohol-free option for less irritation and drying.
Beginner-Friendly Faves: Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner; Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner
Moisturizer (AM & PM)
Even oily and acne-prone skin needs moisturizer! It’s a common misconception that oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer since it’s not dry, but not moisturizing can increase oil production (which can lead to more acne). By not moisturizing, your skin will overcompensate for the lack of moisture. Moisturizing will also help support your skin barrier and lock in hydration.
💖 Pro Tip: Choose a lightweight gel or a richer cream based on your skin’s needs.
Beginner-Friendly Faves: Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream; Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream
SPF (AM & Reapply Throughout the Day!)
Sunscreen is non-negotiable for me. It protects your skin from sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging, even on cloudy days. ☀️ Apply every morning & reapply if you’re out and about. If you struggle with dark spots, acne scars, or hormonal hyperpigmentation (like melasma or post-inflammatory marks), SPF is a must.
*Why it’s essential for hyperpigmentation: Sun exposure can worsen dark spots and trigger pigment cells (especially if you’re dealing with hormonal changes or inflammation.) Even if you’re using brightening products like vitamin C or licorice root, they won’t work well, or could even make things worse, without daily sun protection.
🧴Apply SPF every morning, & reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors.
Beginner-Friendly Faves: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 (and just about all other Supergoop! products!); Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50+
Treatments (PM)
Once you’ve built a strong foundation, you can slowly begin to add treatments like serums and exfoliants. These types of products will help with acne, dark spots, dullness, and more skin concerns.
🌙 Always introduce new products slowly, and one at a time.
*I’m not including any beginner-friendly faves for this one since serums, exfoliants, and other treatments are entirely based on your skin concerns and skin type.
Beginner Skincare Tips:
Always patch test new products
Stick to a routine for at least 4-6 weeks to see results
Avoid overdoing it with too many active ingredients
Remember that skincare is personal; what works for someone else might not work for you
💖 Let’s Build Your Glow
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small and stay consistent. Treating skincare like self-care can help make sure it doesn’t feel like a chore. You deserve to feel amazing in your skin!
Have questions or need product recommendations? 💌DM me on Instagram @SkinByIsabela or leave a comment below!
