One thing has stayed constant in many of our lives during these unpredictably epidemic times—times during which the word “uncertainty” will trigger for years. It’s a skin-care routine. Perhaps you follow an influencer’s 11-step routine, or perhaps you prefer to wash, rinse, and repeat It’s possible that your skin-care regimen has remained unchanged from before the epidemic, or you’ve added new steps, like a weekly mask or nighttime serum for extra self-care. You’re in luck if you’re looking for the definitive list of the best skincare products to use in what order. The truth is that every skin-care regimen must be as distinct and individual as the person who uses it (or attempting to, anyway).

In response, we are here. With the aid of research and professionals rather than marketing hype, we hope to address as many of your questions as we can in these skin-care 101 guides as you start (or continue) your skin-care journey. Continue reading to learn all there is to know about various skin-care regimen components and processes, including what to keep in mind based on your skin type and any existing medical concerns.

Here is how to apply this advice: Starting at the beginning can be helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the concept of a skin-care routine. Here, we address your most fundamental questions about skincare, including any that you might be embarrassed to ask all your knowledgeable skin-care friends.

When you say “skin care,” what do you truly mean?

We’re talking about your skin, which is the largest organ in your body. It is crucial in defending you against external germs and, as you may know, keeps all of your internal organs in their proper positions (phew). And just like you should clean your teeth every day, you need also give your skin some care to maintain its health.

Protection is also necessary, especially against skin cancer. When we talk about skincare at SELF, we’re talking about evidence-based strategies to enhance your skin’s appearance and functionality to treat and manage both cosmetic and medical concerns.

Why should I give skin care any thought?

Giving your skin some love has both cosmetic and medical benefits. Yes, caring about skincare may be rather hot these days, especially with beauty influencers demonstrating anything from facial steaming to jade rolling on social media. For instance, even if you can’t stop time from passing, you can lessen the look of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and sun damage with a carefully crafted skin-care routine. With the help of face care products, you may also handle some more minor skin issues like dryness or oiliness pretty well.

Skincare isn’t always optional for those with specific skin diseases, such as psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, and acne, and requires a little more consideration of the components.

Cleansing

According to Dr. Carlos Charles, a dermatologist in New York City, washing your face is the first and most fundamental step in any practice. Every day, environmental toxins, grime, and other substances come into touch with our skin and should be properly removed. To prevent clogged pores, dullness, and acne, wash your face twice daily, morning and night.

Choose a Facial Cleanser

The ideal cleanser cleans your skin without removing its vital oils. Use exfoliating scrubs sparingly (once a week) and stay away from products that contain crushed walnut shells or other abrasives.

Toning

Utilizing Toner

Many people associate the word “toner” with astringents that sting from the 1980s. According to Dr. Nazarian, the original was an alcohol-based solution that was used to dry out oily skin and get rid of any impurities that lingered after cleansing. But the formulas used today have changed. Consider them vitamins that balance your complexion while providing an extra burst of nutrients to assist the other items in your regimen to absorb better.

Utilizing Serums to Cure

Serums are effective skin buddies, to put it simply. These elixirs, which contain concentrated dosages of active substances, can reduce wrinkles and dark spots as well as other problems. Everyone requires a general antioxidant serum in the morning to guard against daily aggressors, according to Mattioli, even if they don’t have any particular problems. Nazarian singles out her dependable favorites despite the “limitless alternatives” for ingredients. Look for the following goods to address particular problems:

• Hyaluronic acid helps to lock in moisture and strengthens the skin’s top layer’s barrier function, preventing moisture loss.
• With continued use, vitamin C can help brighten dull skin and lessen dark spots.