Key takeaways
- Skin needs four jobs done: Clean | Hydrate | Protect | Treat
- One product per job is enough.
A good skincare routine needs only four products: a gentle cleanser, a moisturiser, a sunscreen and one active ingredient for your main concern.
It is common nowadays to see impressive shelves of dozens of products on one's mirror countertop. Ten bottles and four actives, where three of them do the same job.
The skin gets irritated and breaks out. Almost always, the fix is to reduce the long routine into a simple yet effective one.
Which four products do I need?
- A gentle cleanser
Twice a day with lukewarm water. If your face feels tight afterwards, the cleanser is too harsh. - A moisturiser
Gel-cream for oily skin. A richer cream for dry skin. - Sunscreen
Every morning. Prevents tanning, pigmentation, early lines and collagen loss. Reapply if you are out through the day. - One active for your main concern
Retinoid for acne, texture and ageing, vitamin C or niacinamide for dullness, salicylic acid for comedones and congestion. Pick one and manage one condition effectively before starting another active.
In what order should I apply them?
- Morning: Cleanse → Moisturise → Sunscreen
- Night: Cleanse → Moisturise → Active
How do I start an active?
- Build up tolerance slowly. Use it twice a week at first, then increase the frequency as prescribed over 1 to 2 months.
- Give any change eight to twelve weeks before you judge it.
What should I leave out?
- Daily scrubs and alcohol toners.
- DIY homemade masks.
- Fairness creams that contain steroids. These cause facial damage that is hard to treat and can be irreversible.
Book a consultation
Not sure which active suits your skin? We can build a routine around what you already own.
Medical disclaimer. This article is for general education only. It is not a substitute for a consultation and examination by a qualified doctor who knows your medical history. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice.