By Elena 
Identify Your Skin Type
Before jumping into the latest trending products, you need to know your skin type. Is it oily, dry, combination, or sensitive? That’s the foundation of everything.
If you’re guessing, stop right there. Take a clean tissue, press it on your face in the morning, and check shine means oily, tightness means dry, a mix means combination.
Sensitive skin? You probably already know it reacts to almost everything. This step is non-negotiable, so don’t skip it.
Morning Skincare Routine
Your AM skincare is all about protection and prep. The goal? Hydrated, fresh skin that can face the world (and the sun).
It’s not about how many products you use but how consistently you use them. A simple, layered routine works better than an expensive one-time spa day.
Let’s break it down, step by step.
Step 1: Cleanser
Start with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser that removes sweat, oil, and overnight grime. You don’t need a harsh face wash unless your skin is super oily.
Foaming or gel cleansers work well for oily and combo types. Creamy ones suit dry and sensitive skin.
Wash with lukewarm water hot water might feel good but it can mess up your barrier.
Step 2: Toner
Forget those alcohol-based toners from the 90s they’re outdated. Today’s toners are more like hydration boosters.
Look for toners with rose water, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. They soothe and prep your skin for everything that follows.
Just pour a little on your hands or a cotton pad, then gently pat it in.
Step 3: Spot Treatments or Acne Treatments
If you’ve got an active breakout or those annoying under-the-skin bumps, this is the moment to zap them.
Salicylic acid is gold for clogged pores, while benzoyl peroxide fights active acne. Niacinamide helps calm red spots.
Apply directly to the affected area, not all over your face.
Step 4: Antioxidant Serum
Vitamin C serum in the morning? Yes, please! It brightens, evens skin tone, and protects against pollution.
Don’t skip it if you live in a city antioxidants are like armor for your skin. Bonus: They also boost your SPF’s power.
Just a few drops go a long way.
Step 5: Eye Cream
The skin around your eyes is paper-thin and ages first. An eye cream helps keep it firm and hydrated.
Use your ring finger it’s the weakest and least likely to tug. Gently dab, never rub.
Even if you don’t have dark circles now, prevention is key.
Step 6: Moisturizer
Even if you’re oily, your skin needs hydration. Don’t fall for the “moisturizer is optional” myth.
Gel moisturizers are great for oily skin, while rich creams are heaven for dry types. Combo skin? Try a balancing formula.
Seal in everything you’ve just applied.
Step 7: Sunscreen
If you skip sunscreen, the rest of your routine is basically useless. Harsh but true.
Choose SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every 2–3 hours if you’re outdoors, especially in summer.
Mineral sunscreens work well for sensitive skin, while chemical ones feel lighter.
Evening Skincare Routine
Nighttime is for repair. Your skin regenerates while you sleep give it the tools it needs.
This is where you can add your powerhouse treatments and richer products. Think of it as your skin’s reset button.
Here’s your PM glow-up guide.
Step 1: Cleanser
Always cleanse, even if you didn’t wear makeup. Pollution, oil, and bacteria build up during the day.
Double cleansing works wonders — use an oil-based cleanser first, then a water-based one. Bye-bye, clogged pores.
Massage gently for at least 60 seconds.
Step 2: Toner
Yes, again. Your skin still needs balance after cleansing. A nighttime toner can have more active ingredients.
Look for ones with exfoliating acids like glycolic or lactic acid 2–3 times a week. Otherwise, go hydrating.
It preps your skin perfectly for the treatment steps ahead.
Step 3: Spot Treatment
Night is the best time to target pimples — you’re not sweating or touching your face.
Let acne treatments do their magic while you dream. Again, only apply to problem areas.
Avoid layering too many actives, though. You don’t want irritation.
Step 4: Serums or Acne Treatments
This is where the heavy-lifters come in. Think peptides, AHAs, BHAs, or hyaluronic acid depending on your needs.
Got acne? Go with a treatment serum. Dry skin? Opt for hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
Layer thin to thick and always wait a few seconds between products.
Step 5: Retinol
The MVP of anti-aging. Retinol helps with fine lines, acne, texture basically, everything.
Start slow. Twice a week is plenty at first. Use a pea-sized amount and never mix with strong acids.
Always moisturize after to buffer any dryness or peeling.
Step 6: Eye Cream
At night, your eye cream can be richer and more targeted. Look for ones with caffeine, peptides, or retinol (if your skin tolerates it).
Still, use a light hand. That area is super delicate.
Consistency is what brings results here not thick layers.
Step 7: Moisturizer or Night Cream
Night creams are often heavier, with ingredients like ceramides, peptides, or squalane. They’re designed to work over hours.
Dry or mature skin types especially benefit from this extra hydration. Oily skin? Go for a non-comedogenic gel-based night moisturizer.
This step locks in everything you’ve applied so far.
Step 8: Face Oil
Optional but luxurious. Face oils like rosehip, marula, or jojoba are great sealants and nourish overnight.
They’re not for everyone, especially acne-prone skin. But if your skin loves them go for it.
Apply last to lock in moisture and wake up glowing.
Additional Tips and Considerations
Drink water. Yes, it actually matters. Your skin reflects what’s happening inside.
Change your pillowcases twice a week. Bacteria and oils collect fast, especially if you sleep with your hair down.
Don’t overdo actives. If your skin is red or flaky, scale back. You’re not racing anyone.
Patch test new products. Even if it’s trending all over TikTok, your skin might not love it.
Give a new routine at least 4–6 weeks to show results unless you’re reacting badly. In that case, stop ASAP.
Quick Review
AM routine = cleanse, tone, treat, protect. Your goal is hydration and defense.
PM routine = cleanse, treat, repair, nourish. Your goal is glow and regeneration.
Know your skin type, go slow with new products, and don’t expect overnight miracles.
Consistency is sexy. Your skin will thank you with that natural, no-filter-needed glow.