Basic Skin care Routine for Beginners (Unisex)

Having a healthy and glowing skin is something that many of us strive to achieve, but achieving it requires consistency and a good skin care routine. 

Whether you are new to skincare or looking to improve your existing routine, this comprehensive guide will guide you through the skincare routine that will help you maintain healthy, glowing and radiant skin. In this blog we will discuss daily skin care routine for beginners also additional steps that you can add in your existing routine or include in your regimen as and when needed (or wanted). I will also be recommending few ingredients for all skin types. Also, these steps can be followed by both men and women. So, let’s dive in and discover the steps to a basic skin care routine!

Basic Skin care steps that everyone should include (Morning routine):

Step 1: Cleansing

The foundation of any skincare routine is a good cleanser. Cleansing helps remove dirt, oil, makeup and other impurities that accumulate on the skin throughout the day. Choose a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type – whether it’s oily, dry, or sensitive. Massage the cleanser into damp skin using a circular motion, then rinse with lukewarm water. Cleansing should be done twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, to ensure that you apply all your products on clean skin.

Step 2: Toning

Toning is an often overlooked, but it is an important step to maintain the skin’s pH balance and prepare it for the next steps. Choose an alcohol-free toner for face that suits your skin type. Apply it to your face using a cotton pad, focusing on the T-zone and any areas prone to congestion. Toning helps to tighten pores, remove any remaining cleanser, and prepares your skin for the next skincare products.

Step 3: Serum (optional)

Serums are lightweight formulations packed with active ingredients that target specific skin concerns. Choose a serum that addresses your particular needs, such as Hyaluronic acid for hydration, Niacinamide for brightening and Retinol for anti-aging. Apply a few drops of serum to your fingertips and gently pat it onto your face and neck. Allow it to absorb fully before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Moisturising

It’s important to hydrate your skin, regardless of your skin type. After toning, apply a suitable cream to the face and neck, preferably containing ingredients such asHyaluronic acid, ceramide, or glycerin, which help seal in moisture. Gently massage the moisturiser into your skin using an upward motion. Moisturisers not only hydrate the skin but also act as a protective barrier, prevents moisture loss and keeps your skin soft and smooth.

Step 5: Sun Protection

Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is vital to prevent premature aging, sunburns, and dark spots. Usually, people think that they have to use sunscreen only when they are going out in sun, but that is not true, one should use sunscreen irrespective of weather or time spent outdoors. Apply sunscreen with minimum SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Spread it generously over your face and any exposed areas, reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors.

Additional Steps: (add as and when needed)

Face masks:

Face masks provide additional nutrition and solve specific skin care problems. Whether you choose a hydrating mask, a clay mask for deep cleansing, or a sheet mask packed with vitamins and antioxidants, using a face mask once or twice a week can provide an extra boost to your skin care.

 

Bonus Step for Night-time (evening) Routine:

In addition to your morning routine, following a night-time skin care regimen is also essential for allowing your skin to repair and regenerate while you sleep. Follow the steps above but consider replacing the sunscreen with a nourishing night cream or sleeping mask to provide intense hydration and repair benefits.

Basic Skin care tips for different Skin type:

Oily Skin:

• If you have oily skin, there are certain ingredients you should look for in oily skincare products that can help control excess oil and maintain a balanced complexion.

• Cleanse twice daily with a gentle, oil-free cleanser to remove excess oil and impurities without stripping skin’s natural oils.
• Use a toner with ingredients like witch hazel or salicylic acid to help control oil production and tighten up pores.
• Choose light, oil-free moisturisers or gel-based formulas that hydrate without adding excess oil.
• Include a clay (like multani mitti) or charcoal mask once or twice a week to help absorb excess oil and reduce the appearance of pores.

Dry skin: 

• If you have dry skin, incorporating skincare products with hydrating and nourishing ingredients can help replenish moisture, restore the skin’s barrier, and improve overall hydration.

• Choose a creamy or hydrating cleanser with above mentioned ingredients so that it doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils.
• Use a hydrating toner to increase moisture and balance the skin’s pH levels.
• Apply a rich, nourishing moisturiser with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to replenish and lock in moisture.
• Consider using a face oil or hydrating serum to provide an extra boost of hydration.
• Limit hot showers or baths and use lukewarm water, as hot water can further dry your skin.

Combination Skin:

• If you have combination skin, it means that different areas of your face have different needs. The T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) tends to be oilier, while the cheeks and other areas may be drier.

• Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to cleanse skin without stripping it of moisture.
• Focus on toning the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) with a toner designed for combination skin.
• Apply light, oil-free moisturisers to the T-zone, and use a slightly heavier moisturiser on drier areas of the face.
• Exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and balance skin texture.
• Use different clay masks to your oily and dry skin area, like hydration one where your skin is dry and clarifying one where your skin tends to be oily.
• Spot treat oily areas with oil absorbent sheets throughout the day, if necessary.

Sensitive Skin:

• If you have sensitive skin, it’s important to choose skincare products with gentle and soothing ingredients that minimise the risk of irritation.

• Choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products to reduce the risk of irritation.
• Use a gentle, mild cleanser that won’t break the skin’s natural barrier.
• Choose alcohol-free toners or soothing mists to calm skin and reduce redness.
• Use mild exfoliators and scrubs to exfoliate your skin
• Look for moisturizers with less ingredients, such as ceramides or aloe vera, to soothe and hydrate the skin.
• Do patch tests before trying new products to make sure they don’t cause negative reactions.

In Conclusion:

Establishing a basic skin care routine is essential for maintaining healthy and radiant skin but consistency is the key, so make sure you follow your morning and night time routine for visible results. By creating and following a basic skin care routine that suits your skin type, you can promote healthy, glowing skin and nurture your natural beauty for years to come.

Also, Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, and it may take some experimentation to find the right products and techniques for you. It is important to pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust your treatment accordingly. A consultation with a dermatologist or skincare specialist if you have any specific skin concerns.

“There is no exquisite beauty… without some strangeness in the proportion.”

FAQS:

Q: Can I use the same moisturiser for day and night?

A: Yes, you can. But, it’s beneficial to have separate products. Daytime moisturisers often include ingredients like SPF or antioxidants to protect the skin from environmental stressors, while night-time moisturisers are typically richer and focus on hydration and repair. Using a dedicated night cream can provide extra nourishment overnight.

Q: Is sunscreen necessary if I stay indoors most of the time?

A: Yes, wearing sunscreen is still essential even if you spend most of your time indoors. UV rays can penetrate windows, and prolonged exposure can contribute to premature aging and skin damage.

Q: How long does it take to see results from a skincare routine?

A: Well, Consistency is the key when it comes to skincare, and results can vary depending on individual and products used. While some people may notice improvements in their skin within a few weeks, it can take several weeks to a few months to see significant changes.

Q: Can I use multiple serums in my routine?

A: Yes, but it should be done with caution. It’s important to consider the compatibility of the serums and avoid overloading the skin. If using multiple serums, apply them from thinnest to thickest consistency, allowing each serum to absorb before applying the next or you can also use them in alternate days.