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Let’s talk… Face It — Skincare Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
By Jean Davenport-Niles
Face it — you can have beautiful skin regardless if your sixteen or sixty plus. But only if you work on it a little each day. Building a solid skincare routine isn’t about chasing every new trend. It’s about finding what works for your skin and sticking with it. Most dermatologists agree that a good morning regimen follows this simple order:
Step 1: Cleanser
A gentle facial cleanser helps remove the oil and debris that collect overnight — water alone won’t do it. Cleansing also preps your skin to absorb other products more effectively. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry explains, “By cleansing your skin, you’re also priming it so that it can absorb future products.”
What to choose? Most dermatology business carry these products, yet other brands may deliver the same results.
• Dry skin: Try creamy cleansers with moisturizing ingredients. Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, says, “Creamy cleansers tend to have more oils that help moisturize the skin.” Best pick: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
• Oily or acne-prone skin: Use a gel or foaming wash for deep cleaning.
Best pick: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
• Sensitive skin: Go with suds-free or cream cleansers that are gentle. “Foaming cleansers can be irritating since they have stronger surfactants,” notes Woolery-Lloyd.
Best pick: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Step 2: Serum
Vitamin C serums are a brightening powerhouse. They help even tone and fight sun damage. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist, recommends applying it in the morning for best protection. Best pick: CeraVe Vitamin C Serum
Step 3: Moisturizer
Every skin type needs moisture. Even oily skin benefits from hydration — the key is using the right formula. Dr. Mona Gohara, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale, reminds us, “Moisturizing helps maintain your skin barrier and prevents inflammation.” Best pick: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
Step 4: Sunscreen (Final step!)
Never skip it. Dermatologists say to use at least SPF 30 with broad-spectrum protection to guard against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply a nickel-sized amount before makeup.
Dr. Hadley King, a New York-based dermatologist, advises, “Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable — it’s your best defense against aging and skin cancer.” Best pick: Elta MD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
Optional: Add an eye cream or toner if you like, but they’re not essential.
At night, use the same routine — just swap your sunscreen for a nourishing night cream.
The truth is, healthy skin isn’t magic. It’s consistency. When you treat your skin with care and patience, it tends to show up for you in return.