Skincare Basics
Key Points
- Selecting a cleanser tailored to your skin type and avoiding harsh body washes.
- Choosing moisturizers that include barrier‑supporting ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
- Applying retinoids correctly at night, using a pea‑sized amount and a sandwich technique to manage irritation.
- Protecting the skin every morning with a mineral or chemical sunscreen, and understanding tinted options for visible‑light defense.
Cleanser
Cleanser – a facial wash formulated to remove surface impurities without disrupting the delicate barrier of facial skin.
- Purpose: Removes oil, sweat, makeup, and environmental debris; prepares skin for subsequent steps.
- Key rule: Never use shampoo or body wash on the face; facial skin is more sensitive and can be damaged by harsher cleansers.
- Determine your skin type (oily, dry, combination, normal, sensitive) before selecting a product.
Choosing a cleanser by skin type
| Skin Type | Recommended texture | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | Cream‑based (hydrating) | CeraVe |
| Oily | Gel or foaming (helps control sebum) | N/A (SOON) |
| Combination / Normal | Either above, based on personal preference | N/A (SOON) |
| Sensitive | Fragrance‑free, gentle formula | Burt’s Bees Sensitive Skin Cream Cleanser |
Moisturizer
Moisturizer – a product that reinforces the skin barrier, delivers hydration, and may contain active ingredients that support barrier health.
Universal rule: Everyone, regardless of skin type, needs a moisturizer.
Key ingredients to look for:
Ceramides – restore lipid barrier
Niacinamide – anti‑inflammatory, brightening
Hyaluronic acid – humectant for water retention
Recommended product
- La Roche‑Posay Toleriane Double‑Repair Face Moisturizer (non‑SPF version preferred for AM & PM).
- Light, “nothing‑on‑the‑skin” feel; absorbs quickly.
- Optionally, the SPF‑containing version can be used if you prefer an all‑in‑one step.
Selection tips
- Choose a texture you enjoy; adherence to the routine is the most critical factor.
- If you dislike the feel of SPF in moisturizers (often thicker), apply a separate sunscreen instead.
Retinoid (Night Treatment)
Retinoid – a vitamin A‑derived compound that accelerates epidermal turnover, improves texture, tone, collagen production, and treats acne.
How to apply
- After cleansing at night, pat skin dry.
- Pea‑sized amount of retinoid → dot across face (or dab in small sections).
- Gently spread to cover entire face.
- Use only at night; sunlight inactivates retinoids.
Managing irritation
- Common side effects: burning, redness, dryness, flaking.
- Start low, go slow: begin with a gentle formulation, increase frequency/strength gradually.
- Moisturizer sandwich technique:
- Light moisturizer layer → wait ~5 min
- Apply retinoid
- Second moisturizer layer
- If irritation persists, add an emollient (e.g., Aquaphor) on top of the sandwich.
Product hierarchy
| Category | Typical strength | Example brands | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retinol (gentler) | Low | – | Over‑the‑counter |
| Adapalene 0.1 % (OTC retinoid) | Moderate | Differin®, La Roche‑Posay Adapalene 0.1 % | Over‑the‑counter |
| Prescription retinoids (e.g., tretinoin) | Higher | – | Prescription (dermatologist) |
- Starter: Retinol → progress to Adapalene 0.1 % when tolerated.
- Advanced: Switch to prescription retinoid (e.g., tretinoin) under dermatologist guidance.
- Frequency can be adjusted (e.g., every third night → every other night) based on tolerance.
Sunscreen (Protection)
Sunscreen – a topical product that shields skin from UV radiation (UVA, UVB) and, for tinted formulas, also from visible light.
- Non‑negotiable: No matter how excellent the rest of the routine, lacking sunscreen nullifies skin‑health benefits.
- Best sunscreen = the one you will actually use daily.
Preference for mineral sunscreens
- Active ingredients: Zinc oxide or Titanium dioxide.
- Pros: Broad‑spectrum protection, less irritation for sensitive skin.
- Cons: May leave a white cast.
Recommended mineral sunscreen
- EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Facial Sunscreen (mineral, tinted, minimal white cast).
- Tinted formulas also block visible‑light spectrum damage.
Other options mentioned
- La Roche‑Posay Mineral Anti‑Helius Light Fluid Sunscreen
- CeraVe mineral sunscreens
Usage tip: Apply generously to all exposed skin; reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.