The Beginner Skincare Routine Guide: The Products You Need

Here is everything you need to know when starting a beginner skincare routine. Skincare routines can be overwhelming, but we break it all down for you!

So this is it, you’ve decided you want to start taking better care of your skin. But with all these products constantly bombarding you in the face every day, where do you even begin? If you’ve never delved into the world of skincare before but want to try your hand at achieving clear, glowy skin, then read on. I’ve got you covered with this beginner skincare routine guide that will tell you all the products you need in order to start building your skincare routine!

1. Find your Skin Type

First things first, before you even start purchasing products it’s important to figure out your skin type. The basic skin types are dry, normal, combination, oily, and sensitive. A lot of these skin types overlap, so it’s best to do a lot of research online before you embark on the quest for the products in your skincare routine. A lot of makeup and skincare counters will also offer you advice on your skin type, so this might be a good place to start for a beginner skincare routine.

2. Start with a Good Cleanser

The first step in your skincare routine should be a good cleanser. In fact, I would actually recommend going for two kinds: one to remove your makeup, and a gentle, everyday face wash. A lot of beauty gurus swear by the “double cleanse”, which means starting with an oil cleanser then moving on to a foaming one. If this sounds too complicated for you, try to find a good all-rounder product that will be gentle yet rid your skin of all makeup and impurities.

Suggestions: Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser, Fresh Soy Face Cleanser, Cerave Foaming Cleanser

3. Toner is Key

The key to good skin is keeping the pH of your skin balanced. This keeps your skin strong enough to ward off bacteria that causes blemishes. One of the best ways to do this is to find a good toner. This should be the second step in your routine after cleansing, and will balance and prep your skin for the next step. Look for an alcohol-free toner so that it won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.

Suggestions: LUSH Eau Roma Water, Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Toner

4. Hydrate For Your Skin Type

No matter what your skin type is, you still need to moisturise! A lot of people with oily skin will decide to skip moisturiser, but this can actually make your skin oilier. The key is to keep your skin balanced, so depending on your skin type you might need to go for a gel, a lotion or a thicker cream. Moisturisers are also a great protective barrier against the elements or during colder seasons. A must in your beginner skincare routine!

Suggestions: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion, Jurlique Soothing Day Care Lotion

5. Find Extras to Target Specific Problems

This is an optional step to target any problems you might have with your skin. Maybe you’re prone to dark spots? Invest in a vitamin C serum or some rosehip oil. Maybe you’re prone to blemishes? There will be some great masks or spot treatments out there for you choose from. The key it to keep your routine as minimal as possible, so if you can find a multi-tasking product, that will be even better.

Suggestions: Pai Rosehip Oil, The Body Shop Tea Tree Anti-Imperfection Night Mask

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6. Find a Good Exfoliator

If your skin is looking dull and clogged, or you find yourself constantly breaking out, it could be because you’re in need of a good exfoliator. Exfoliators get rid of dead skin and help your skin cells turnover to quickly get rid of blemishes. There are two types of exfoliators: physical and chemical. Chemical exfoliators are better for sensitive skin, while physical exfoliators (your typical scrub) will offer a deeper clean. Whichever kind you go for, exfoliators should only be used a maximum of three times a week. Another crucial component in your beginner skincare routine.

Suggestions: Pixi Glow Tonic, LUSH Angels on Bare Skin

7. Always Wear Sunscreen

This often overlooked skincare routine is one that you should never ever skip, even if it’s cloudy outside! Protect your skin against harmful UV rays and prevent dark spots, wrinkles and sensitivity by wearing sun screen every single day. This is especially important if you use any products containing vitamin C or A, as these vitamins can make you more sensitive to the sun.

Suggestions: Jurlique UV Defense Lotion, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Spray