Best Skincare

Best Skincare Routine

Are you still looking for the best skincare in 2023? If you are you need not look any further. Despite manufacturers’ claims, many cosmetic products will takeout more cash from your wallet than dirt and oils from your skin. You don’t need the most expensive or most lengthy skin care routine — and for the most part, the most effective and reliable skincare regimen is also quick and inexpensive. If you want a healthy, glowing complexion , it’s important to define the best method for your skin type. But that can be easier said than done: between the hundreds of skin care products on the market and countless tips and tricks from Instagramers and Tiktokers, it can be difficult to find the best formula worth trying.  While there’s no right way to take care of your skin, we’ve researched what top dermatologists had to say in helping you decide where to start and what to keep in mind when it comes to creating the best skincare routine for yourself.

How To Start A Daily Skincare Routine

To get the most benefit from a daily skincare regimen, no matter what your skin type, you should start with three easy steps, according to a top dermatologist. For daily skin care, you can limit your routine to three simple steps: cleaning your skin, protecting it from the sun, and tending to any specific skin problems you may have, such as dry skin, acne, or fine lines and wrinkles. 

THE THREE SIMPLE STEPS FOR A SKINCARE ROUTINE

1. Clean and moisturize your skin. You probably already know that cleansing means washing your face and moisturizing means hydrating your skin, but what does “treating” involve? Well, in addition to keeping your skin in the best shape possible, the objective of any great skincare regimen is to focus on your problem areas.  Choose your skin cleanser based on whether your skin is dry or oily. If you have dry skin, choose a mild cleaning agent (such as Dove, Cetaphil, or Aveeno soaps or cleansers) and avoid products such as toners, which contain alcohol. For oily skin, choose a soap that removes the oil and cleanses your skin more frequently throughout the day.

2. Safeguard your skin from the sun. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and wear it every day. Higher SPFs are helpful if you plan to spend hours outdoors, but if you spend most of your time indoors, a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 should suffice. If you have sensitive skin, choose a sunscreen product designed for sensitive skin.

3. Treat your skin’s own specific needs. For dry skin, there are plenty of effective and inexpensive moisturizers. There are also plenty of affordable over-the-counter products that can reduce lines and wrinkles, fade brown spots, or combat acne. So, treating means incorporating serums packed full of beneficial skincare ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, alpha hydroxy acids and others, depending on your skin type and the results you want to see. “Adding a middle step in between the cleansing and moisturizing components is really important,” Dr. Magovern says. “It can make a huge difference over time in the health, appearance and aging of your skin.”

Always persevere! Good things come to those who stick it out! — and that includes good skincare regimens. Even the best skincare products take time to work, so don’t expect results overnight. If you stick to a consistent, daily routine, you can likely expect to see some benefits within six to 12 weeks — and it can often take at least three to four months to know if your new routine is really working. Here, the best dermatologist-approved daily skincare routines for morning and night, including the basic steps that should be in every at-home regimen for oily, dry, combination or acne-prone skin according to top Derms.

SKINCARE 101

CLEANSERS

How To Clean Your Face With A Cleanser

Face Cleansing

Face cleansing should be the first step in any skincare routine, as it clears away impurities and excess oil that can clog pores and dull skin. But be gentle: “Many people cleanse too often or use a cleanser that’s overly harsh, which will actually break down your skin’s protective barrier,” Dr. Magovern says. If you have dry or sensitive skin, try washing only at night and rinsing your face with water in the morning.

The best formulas will gently cleanse your skin without stripping it of healthy oils. “A [good] sulfate- and soap-free cleanser for the face will be pH-balanced and gentle to maintain the skin’s barrier without stripping,” says Whitney Bowe, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City and author of The Beauty of Dirty Skin. For everyday cleansing, here’s how to shop for the best facial cleanser based on your skin type:

Facial cleansing should be the first step in any skin care routine because it removes impurities and excess oil that can clog pores and skin. But be gentle: “Many people wash too often or use harsh cleansers, which destroys your skin’s protective barrier,” says Dr. Magovern says. If you have dry or sensitive skin, try to wash your face only in the evening and wash your face with water in the morning.

The best skincare products will gently cleanse your skin without stripping it of healthy oils. “The [ideal] sulfate and soap-free face cleanser will be pH balanced and gentle enough to maintain the skin’s barrier without overloading it,” says Top Derm Whitney Bowe, MD, a dermatologist at New York City. For daily cleansing, here’s how to buy the best facial cleanser for your skin type:

For more drier skin: Be on the lookout for a lotion, cream or balm formula with hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid and botanical oils.

For more sensitive skin: Try micellar water, an ultra-gentle cleanser that includes tiny particles called micelles that trap impurities and lift them away without drying your skin in the process.

For more oily skin: A foaming or gel cleanser will ensure adequate removal of excess dirt and oil from your skin; ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid can help regulate and remove excess oil.

For more acne-prone skin: A gentle foaming cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide or sulfur is your best shot.

FOR MORE ACNE-PRONE SKIN

FOR MORE OILY SKIN

FOR MORE SENSITIVE SKIN

FOR DRIER SKIN

TONERS

How To Use Toners For A Better Complexion

Toners are skincare liquids that are applied to dry skin after cleansing using your fingers, a cloth or cotton ball and before using other leave-on skincare treatments like serums and moisturizers. A good toner can help ensure your skin is completely clean and dirt-free, plus give it an extra dose of active ingredients.

You don’t need a toner, but swiping one on can be a great way to refresh skin, remove any residual debris and balance pH, says top derm Magovern. If you’re looking for additional complexion-purifying and brightening benefits, today’s toners are much more advanced than the drying alcohol- and harsh formulas of the past, packed with skin-boosting benefits that can leave your skin glowing. Here are the ingredients you’ll want to look for, based on your skin type:

If you have acne-prone skin, look for a toner with hydroxy acids, including salicylic acid and lactic acid, which increase cell turnover.

For dry or sensitive skin, seek out a hydrating toner (or its close relative, an essence) made without parching alcohol and with ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to soothe.

For combination skin, opt for gentle exfoliants, hydration boosters and antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E and green tea, which can combat free radicals and prevent skin damage.

For oily skin, look for astringents, such as alcohols or witch hazel, that tighten pores.

FOR OILY SKIN

FOR DRY/SENSITIVE SKIN

FOR COMBINATION SKIN

FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN

SERUMS

How to Use A Good Serum For More Radiant Skin

A serum tailored to your skin concerns can both treat and protect, delivering concentrated amounts of powerful ingredients that can address a number of complexion issues, from wrinkles to dark spots — and if you have multiple concerns, you can use several different serum formulas. Just be sure to read the labels carefully, because some serums are better if used in the morning, while others are better used at night.

What’s the go-to serum anyone can benefit from in the morning? 

An antioxidant serum, which will prevent the formation of free radicals and lessen signs of aging over time. Vitamin C is considered the gold standard antioxidant. “Everyone should use vitamin C, no matter what age,” says top derm Magovern. “It helps reverse a lot of the skin damage you can get from pollution and the sun.” For darker skin tones, hyperpigmentation can be a common issue, and using a vitamin C serum in the morning can also help mitigate dark spots, says top derm Jennifer David. In addition to antioxidant serums, you can try anti-aging serums featuring the following ingredients to address wrinkles, fine lines and more:

Hyaluronic acid serums: They draw moisture into the skin, combating dryness and dullness and also plumping skin.

Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3 that brightens and evens skin tone, boosts collagen production and calms inflammation.

Retinoids: Stimulate cell turnover to increase collagen production and reduce wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Retinol is best used at night.

Peptides: Made of amino acids, they are the building blocks of collagen and can boost its production to smooth lines and increase skin’s firmness.

ANTIOXIDANT

FOR BRIGHTENING

FOR DARK SPOTS

FOR WRINKLES

EYE CREAMS

How To Use Eye Creams Or Serums For A More Beautiful Complexion

Eye creams are different from face creams because they’re formulated specifically for the delicate eye area, which ages faster than the rest of your face — and therefore fall into the “treat” category, too. If you’re concerned about fine lines, wrinkles, a lack of firmness, dark circles or undereye bags, an eye skincare product is definitely a good option.

To target dark circles, seek out niacinamide or vitamin C; and for puffiness, use a formula with caffeine, advises Marnie Nussbaum, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. For wrinkles and sagging, look for formulas with peptides and retinol. In addition, “vitamin K can help brighten dark undereye circles and hyaluronic acid hydrates dry skin,” says Deanne Mraz Robinson, M.D., a top derm in Westport, CT. To treat multiple eye area issues, shop for a combo of these ingredients targeted to your needs. When applying in the morning and at night, lightly tap on a formula targeted to your eye-area concerns using your ring finger (your weakest) to avoid tugging on this delicate area and causing damage.

FOR DARK CIRCLES

FOR WRINKLES

FOR SAGGING

FOR PUFFINESS

MOISTURIZERS

How to Use a Moisturizer For A More Beautiful Complexion

Face moisturizers keep your skin soft and hydrated and help strengthen its barrier. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for a lighter moisturizer for daytime use, such as a lotion or gel that will absorb quickly and won’t pill under makeup. If your skin is dry, try a thicker formula, like a cream. Either way, dermatologists recommend moisturizers for all skin types year round, since hydrating is crucial for keeping skin youthful and healthy. “Look for ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid, since these ingredients are the building blocks of moisture retention in skin,” Dr. David explains.

Quick tip: Massage moisturizer in as you apply it, which will increase its absorption and effectiveness, plus improve circulation.

Here’s how to pick a moisturizer formula, based on your skin type:

Oily or acne-prone skin: Look for the lighter lotions or gel-based formulas labeled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free.”

Sensitive skin: Be on the lookout for formulas that are hypoallergenic and free of potential irritants, like fragrance and alcohol.

Dry skin: An elegant cream packed with emollients, humectants, ceramides and occlusives is key to quenching dryness.

FOR DRIER SKIN

FOR MORE OILY/ACNE-PRONE SKIN

FOR MORE SENSITIVE SKIN

SUNSCREENS

 How to Use Sunscreens In Your Skincare Routine

Dermatologists concur: Sunscreen is the most critical step in any skincare routine for every skin type and age. “If you don’t wear sunscreen, you might as well not do any of the other steps,” Dr. Magovern says. “The sun is the number one reason skin ages prematurely.” The damage isn’t only cosmetic, no matter what your skin color: “People of color can and do get skin cancer,” Dr. David says. “Plus, if you’re treating hyperpigmentation without daily SPF use, it’s like taking two steps forward and one step backward.”

Heads up: Protecting your skin from the sun is important even if you’re spending your days indoors, as UV rays can penetrate through the windows.

Smooth on a nickel-sized dollop of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher face sunscreen as the last step in your morning skincare routine, including on your neck and the backs of your hands, 30 minutes before you head outside. If you want to minimize the steps in your routine, you can use a daily moisturizer with SPF instead of applying a moisturizer and SPF separately.

There are two main types of sunscreen formulas:

Chemical sunscreens: These are made with chemical ingredients like avobenzone and homosalate, which absorb the UV light that comes in contact with skin.

Physical sunscreens (a.k.a. mineral sunscreens)  these contain mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which reflect UV light off of skin.

Some SPF formulas include both chemical and physical ingredients. If you have sensitive skin, dermatologists generally recommend mineral and pure zinc-oxide sunscreens (though many chemical sunscreens have not caused irritation in GH Beauty Lab tests). For those with oily skin, look for non-comedogenic, oil-free gel formulas. If you have dry skin, avoid spray or gel sunscreens with alcohol. People with darker skin tones may prefer chemical sunscreens to avoid the white cast of some physical formulas, though brands have begun to produce mineral formulations without a chalky appearance.

FOR MORE OILY SKIN TYPES

FOR DRIER SKIN TYPES

FOR DARKER SKIN TYPES

Dermstore

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body Face Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 100 (3 fl. oz.) A broad-spectrum, oxybenzone-free sunscreen for the face and body. Specifically formulated to help protect skin that burns easily, La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body Face Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 100 is a broad-spectrum, oxybenzone-free sunscreen for the face and body.

A pioneer in UV protection research for over 15 years, La Roche-Posay, with Anthelios, is trusted by dermatologists worldwide for its advanced formulations in UV protection. Formulated with exclusive Cell-Ox Shield® Technology, UVA/UVB filters, antioxidants and broad-spectrum SPF 100 protection, this lightweight, water-resistant and fast-absorbing lotion melts into the skin without leaving a white cast behind. More

Dermstore
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body Face Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 100 (3 fl. oz.) A broad-spectrum, oxybenzone-free sunscreen for the face and body.
$26.99
Shop Now

FOR MORE SENSITIVE SKIN

What About Skincare For Nighttime?

How To Take Care Of Your Skin During The Night

It’s critical to switch up your skincare routine at night — and not just because you don’t need SPF while you sleep. Your nighttime routine is the perfect time to make sure your skin is getting as many nutrients and active ingredients as possible, since your skin regenerates and repairs itself while you snooze, Dr. Magovern says. (Hence the term “beauty sleep.”). You’ll still follow the same basic three steps — cleanse, treat and moisturize — but at night, the regimen will look a little bit different.

1. Cleanser

First, remove the day’s dirt and makeup. Start by applying a separate makeup remover, if needed, to take off any cosmetics. “Cleansers are not necessarily designed to dissolve makeup, especially on eyes, and haven’t done so effectively in our testing,” says GH Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Sabina Wizemann. Follow with the same cleanser as in the morning, working from the inside of the face up, then out and down along the hairline and perimeter to just underneath the chin, she suggests.

2. Toner

If you’re opting for a toner, apply it the same way you would in the morning. Because they’re liquids, toners should go on before heavier formulas like serums and moisturizers so they can absorb into skin.

3. Serum or Treatment

Night is an ideal time to use products with ingredients that slough off dead skin cells or stimulate cell turnover while you sleep, such as alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid or retinol, says Dr. Magovern.  These smooth textures brighten skin and minimize pores. (Some serums can be used day or night; follow the packaging instructions.) If you’re treating hyperpigmentation, alternate between a retinoid and the spot-fading active ingredient hydroquinone, Dr. David recommends.

SOMETHING FOR ANTI-AGING

SOMETHING FOR WRINKLES

FOR FIRMING

SOMETHING FOR YOUR FACE AND NECK

4. Eye Cream

Gently dab an eye cream, or alternatively a bit of your face serum or treatment, around your eyes. “You don’t have to use a lot, but if you start training your skin to tolerate more active products around the eye, you’ll see more change,” Dr. Magovern explains.

5. Acne Treatment

If you currently have a blemish (or a few), apply an acne treatment at this time. For recurring breakouts, be proactive rather than treating pimples as they pop up, Dr. Magovern advises. “If you just treat the spot, you’ll get acne right next to it if your skin is clogged,” she says. “You’re getting breakouts because oil is building up, so stay on top of your regimen to keep pores all over your face clear.” (If using a retinoid, let skin adjust before trying acne formulas like salicylic acid.)

6. Night Cream

Moisturizing is especially critical at night, as it creates a protective barrier that seals in skin’s natural hydration and any active ingredients to counteract moisture loss that happens as you sleep. But while you can use the same non-SPF day moisturizer at night, using a night-specific formula will have targeted anti-aging benefits, repairing damage from the day. “Where regular moisturizers focus on improving the natural moisture barrier of the skin only, night creams contain active ingredients that will help your skin beyond just adding moisture to it” explains top derm Tonya McLeod, M.D.

FOR BRIGHTENING

FOR FIRMING

FOR HYDRATION

FOR WRINKLES

7. Face Oil

It’s not a necessary step in your skincare regimen, but if your skin is still feeling parched, applying a face oil can be a great way to help lock in moisture overnight. “A lot of people think that if they have acne or oily skin, they’ll break out with an oil, but it’s not true,” Dr. magovern explains. “It can actually really help soften skin.” For a wholesome boost, pat on a face oil as a last step once the rest of your leave-on skincare products dry — just be sure to apply by pressing it into your skin, not rubbing it in.

Some Common Questions People Ask

How About Facial Cleansing Brushes

If you want to add a little oomph to your cleansing routine, consider one of these portable accessories to help you get through it. In our tests, some reported clearer, smoother and more radiant skin after just one week of facial cleansing. But if you have sensitive skin, eczema, or rosacea, you should use these cautiously.

Should I Invest My Money In Any Special Tools Or Skincare Gadgets?

Beyond a basic washcloth, you don’t need any specific supplies for your skincare routine, but some at-home skin tools and gadgets can deliver added benefits. Here are some worth trying:

(1). Facial steamers

If you want to add a little spirit and life to your skincare regimen, consider one of these portable accessories to help you get through it. In our tests, some reported clearer, smoother and more radiant skin after just one week of facial cleansing. But if you have sensitive skin, eczema, or rosacea, you should use these brushes cautiously.

(2). Gua sha tools

Like jade massagers, the Gua Sha tool is a soft stone that can create a small effect from the lymphatic fluid of the face. Based on ancient Chinese medicine, Gua Sha is used as a massage technique and personal care tool, using gentle movements up and down the face and neck to reduce inflammation and stop swelling. 

(3). LED face masks

Just like professional LED light therapy, the LED facial mask uses visible light to improve skin health by reducing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and stimulating collagen production. Different lighting settings address different concerns. For example, blue light helps fight acne by reducing bacteria; red light is often used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the production of collagen; and green light can help fight hyperpigmentation.

Is It A Good Idea To Use A Mask Regularly?

A face mask can give your skin an instant boost. Apply one of your facial formulas at home once or twice a week by applying it to your clean face, avoiding the eyes and mouth (unless a mask is made for those areas) . Remove it from the packaging instructions, and follow other skin care products that are allowed to be directed or needed.

Whether you’re opting for a DIY skin treatment, a sheet mask or an overnight mask, you want to make sure you’re choosing the right face mask for your skin type:

Oily skin: Use a mask with ingredients like clay or charcoal, which will absorb oil.

Dry skin: Look for words on the label like “hydrating,” “moisturizing” or “nourishing” and ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, plant oils and butters.

Sensitive skin: Seek out anti-inflammatory ingredients such as aloe and oat.

Combination or normal: Look for face masks targeted to your current skin goals or try spot treating certain areas with multiple masks.

What About Exfoliation?

Facial exfoliation is a technique that removes the skin’s outer layer of dead skin cells in order to make it smoother, brighter and clearer — yet a GH survey revealed that nearly half of women skip it in their skincare routine. There are three main types of exfoliation, each with different functions that work best for different skin types, concerns and needs.

Physical Exfoliants

Also known as mechanical exfoliators, this category includes washcloths and cleansing brushes as well as face scrubs with particles that lift away dead skin with friction. These are best for dry or sensitive skin.

Chemical Exfoliants

These include treatments like face peels and cleansers containing acids (such as AHAs or BHAs) or enzymes that loosen the bonds between dead skin cells so they can be dislodged. These are best for those with mature or acne-prone skin.

Combo Exfoliants

These are rinse-off exfoliators that contain both physical and chemical exfoliating ingredients in one product. These are best for those with oily skin. Physical exfoliants can be applied two to three times per week in the morning or evening after cleansing. Chemical exfoliants can be applied once a week, morning or evening after cleansing, for sensitive or dry skin and three times a week maximum for other skin types. Combo exfoliants can be applied weekly up to daily, but follow the specific product’s instructions.

Does This Skincare Routine Work For All Skin Types?

Yes, this is a very general guide and a good starting point for any skin type. Remember, it’s just that: a place to start, which can be modified and customized to fit your body’s tonal needs. What works well for your skin may not work for someone else. Finding a routine that works for you every day may take some trial and error, but these are the right tools to help you achieve healthy and glowing skin. If you want a more customized skincare routine based on your age visit here.

What’s The Best Skincare Routine For Rosacea?

“Keep it simple,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a Connecticut-based dermatologist and associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine. “People with Rosacea type skin are sensitive and often red, and irritated.” She recommends using a good mild soap-free cleanser, barrier moisturizer, and sunscreen every day. “Avoid products with potential irritants like AHAs, BHAs, and retinols,” she adds.

What Should I Do If My Skin Gets Irritated From My Routine?

If you experience any kind of irritation, “go back to basics: cleanse, moisturize, use SPF, and repeat,” says Dr. Gohara advises. “Then slowly introduce products one by one to see if you can identify the culprit. ” Remember that our skin changes over time, so what may have worked for your skin in the past may not work for you now.

CONCLUSION

By addressing specific issues like dryness, wrinkles, or uneven skin tone, skincare products can help you achieve better skin texture and tone, hydration, protection from the elements, acne prevention, decreased signs of aging, increased skin radiance, increased confidence, and overall skin health maintenance. In other words, they can help your skin look and feel its best by giving it the nutrients and protection it needs We hope you enjoyed our article, about “Best Skincare” in 2024. I feel it’s my mission to point people in the right direction as far as what some of the best options are, when it comes to buying the best skincare products for themselves. By the way, please let me know If you find some products that are actually working for you, after you’ve in fact ordered it in the comments below, Thanks!