How to Create a Skincare Routine You’ll Actually Stick To

Looking for a face care routine that works for your skin? From the best way to wash your face to how to apply moisturizer, we’re sharing how to create a personalized skin care routine you’ll actually want to follow.

Benefits of Sticking to a Skin Care Routine

When it comes to choosing the best skincare routine for you, consistency is key. Taking time every morning and night to thoroughly use your skincare products will boost your routine’s efficacy and overall results. Even the simplest skincare routine can have a huge impact on your skin when you commit to doing it well.

How to Build a Skincare Routine That Works for You

Personalize it to YOUR needs.

Before you start buying skincare products, take a moment to assess your specific needs and concerns. Do you want to moisturize dry skin but need gentle products that also soothe irritation? Are you worried about fine lines, blemishes or uneven skin tone? Establishing your skincare goals will help narrow down your options and make choosing the best skincare products less overwhelming.

Take off all your makeup.

Washing your face at night is a skincare must, but how well you wash your face makes all the difference. Consider using rinseless micellar water to help dissolve stubborn makeup and impurities. Thoroughly cleansing your skin boosts its ability to absorb the moisturizers, serums and treatments to follow.

Take time washing your face.

When you wash your face, you want to accomplish two main things: removing makeup and impurities while addressing your skin’s needs. Doing both can require a little extra time (and possibly an extra product). Double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser or pure jojoba oil followed by a water-based formula is a great way to ensure your skin is cleansed and pampered. The first wash removes excess oil, dirt and makeup — allowing the second wash to concentrate on skincare goals like boosting hydration, restoring balance and smoothing fine lines.   

Pro Tip: Be sure to avoid using hot water on your skin, which can be overly drying. Instead, use lukewarm water for a gentler rinse.

Apply toner.

Particularly helpful for oily or acne-prone skin, toner can help reduce the appearance of pores while helping to restore your skin's natural pH balance. Plus, it can help seal in moisture and add an extra layer of protection against environmental impurities.

Layer moisturizers in the right order.

After cleansing and toning the skin, you’ll want to apply your favorite skincare creams — but applying them in the right order is a big part of the puzzle. As for how to apply moisturizer, oils and skincare treatments, the simplest technique is to start with the lightest, thinnest products and build up to the heaviest ones. Generally speaking, treatments should be applied first, followed by moisturizers and eye creams. Oils should be applied as your final step, as they work to seal in your products.

Don’t forget your nighttime routine.

While it’s important to wash your face in the morning, your nighttime routine is ultimately more important. Your skin restores itself while you sleep, which means the products you use before bed can help the process. Be sure to remove all traces of makeup and layer on a moisturizer to help restore hydration throughout the night. Seal your products in with an oil to help prevent overnight moisture loss, as well. 

Choosing products that work for your skin — and sticking to a daily skin care routine — will help you get your best complexion yet.