There isn’t one “perfect” skin care routine—the right routine for you can vary based on your skin type and even the climate you live in. While the kind of products and number that you use will be different for everyone, this is the correct sequence for the most common daily skin care products.
Establishing Your Daily Skin Care Routine
A daytime skin care regime helps keep your skin healthy and strong while protecting it from the sun and outside elements like pollution and free radicals. As you get ready for your day, apply your products in this order:
1. Cleanser
Start with a gentle cleanser to ensure any built-up oil or lingering makeup from the day before is removed. Clean, fresh skin will more easily absorb your other products.
2. Toner
If a toner is part of your daily routine, apply it next. Toner should either contain beta hydroxy acid (BHA) or alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). These ingredients can help clear blackheads, unclog pores, and limit acne breakouts. Use a toner with AHA if you have dry skin and BHA for oily skin.
3. Serum
Since skin serum is very concentrated, a little goes a long way. Vitamin C serum can help protect your skin from inflammation and free radicals. It also helps lighten dark spots and brighten your skin.
4. Eye Cream
It’s never too early to think about wrinkles, and the first place wrinkles typically form is around the eyes. Eye cream hydrates this delicate skin while helping to prevent collagen breakdown that causes fine lines over time.
5. Spot Treatment
If you have acne-prone skin, then you’ll benefit from using spot treatment. Apply only on areas with acne since spot treatment can dry out your skin.
6. Moisturizer
Even if you have oily skin, you should invest in a good moisturizer. Moisturizer can maintain a healthy skin barrier and helps trap your other daily skin products beneath the surface to make their ingredients more beneficial.
7. Sunscreen
Daily sunscreen can help protect your skin from harmful UV rays. If you have sensitive skin, it’s better to use a physical sunscreen with zinc oxide since it’s less irritating than chemical sunscreen. Physical sunscreen sits on top of your skin and reflects sunlight; your skin absorbs chemical sunscreen and can cause irritation.
Not sure where to start with your own daily skin care routine? Overwhelmed by all of the products out there? Our board-certified dermatologists at The Dermatology Clinic can help you find the best products and treatments catered to your skin type. Schedule an appointment at our Baton Rouge or Walker clinic to get started today.
