Skincare for Beginners: A Simple 7-Step Guide for Glowing Skin.

In 2022, I read a great book on skincare titled ” The Little Book of Skincare” by Charlotte Cho, which talked about the basics of Korean skincare. This book was eye-opening and taught me much about building a skincare regimen that works for me. ( You should check that out, it is an awesome book, you’re gonna love it) Building a skincare routine as a beginner is simpler than you think despite all the information out there. This skincare for beginners guide is going to get you started on what you need.

A Beginner’s Guide to Building a Skincare Routine: Your Face Will Thank You!

Step 1 of Skincare for beginners Know Your Skin Type.

Every skin is different and will react differently to products and routines. So, figure out what you have and how best to care for your skin. Plus, knowing this helped me pick products that actually worked, instead of guessing and wasting money — a must for anyone starting skincare for beginners.

First things first—let’s diagnose your skin! Are you oily, dry, combination, or maybe even sensitive? Your skin is like a beautiful snowflake—no two are exactly the same, and that’s what makes it special. Let’s get into it.

• Oily Skin:Your skin looks really shiny because of the excess oil production in your pores. Simply, if your face resembles a slip-and-slide halfway through summer, you’re probably oily.
• Dry Skin: Your skin feels flaky, tight or rough. The skin appears dull due to low oil production. Quite the opposite of oily skin.
• Combination Skin: Your skin is dry in some areas and oily in certain areas. You might have an oil slick in your T-zone (your forehead, nose and chin) but need a rescue mission on your cheeks.
• Sensitive Skin: If your skin reacts to everything like it just walked into a surprise party—think redness, itchiness, or peeling—you’re sensitive.

Step 2: Cleanse Your Skin (Morning and Night)

You MUST cleanse your skin twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime. Get a cleanser of choice  that works great with your skin and wash your face gently for at least 60 seconds. 

For your nighttime routine, I recommend a double cleanse step if you wear makeup. Go in with an oil-based cleanser to remove the makeup and SPF residue from your skin. Then, a gentle foaming water-based cleanser to fully clean skin.

Step 3: Apply Toner:Tone It Up

Toners are water-based tonics or lotions designed to cleanse the skin and provide hydration and balances your skin’s pH. I prefer Witch hazel and Rose water.

Toners are applied after cleansing, right before moisturizing. They simply prep your skin for the rest of the products in your skincare routine. Get a piece of cotton and swipe your skin with your toner. You can use a spray toner depending on your preference.

Be mindful of toners with harsh ingredients like astringents which often leave you dry and dull.

Step 4: Treat Yourself (Literally)

This is where the fun begins! Serums and treatments target specific concerns you may have —be it acne, dark spots, or fine lines. Think of them as little fixers for your skin, they come in when needed, they do not have to stay permanently in skincare routine

For instance, if you’re fighting breakouts, a salicylic acid serum is your new BFF. Want that radiant glow? Look for a vitamin C serum that’ll  restore that glow and have you shining  real bright.

Step 5 of Skincare for beginners: Moisturize

Moisturizers are made to soothe your skin and keep your skin nourished and hydrated. Regularly moisturizing prevents skin blemishes because of the protection they give the skin barrier. Always properly cleanse before moisturizing to prevent small white bumps.

Whether you feel like your skin is thirsty or you want to keep it moisturized to prevent it from turning into a raisin, cream it up! A good moisturizer will plump your skin and keep it hydrated. If you’re oily, look for lightweight formulations or gel-based options. If you’re dry, a richer cream will feel like a cozy blanket for your face.

Step 6: Sunscreen -Seal it with SPF.

Now that your skin’s all hydrated and happy, it’s time to lock in all that goodness with a layer of sunscreen. Think of it like the cute little shield your skin didn’t know it needed. Whether the sun is out or not, SPF is always in. It’s the one step that says, “I love my skin enough to protect it.” Go for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher—lightweight, non-greasy, and something your skin vibes with. Trust me, your future self will thank you. SPF is an essential must-have for any skincare routine you decide to follow. Do not play with your sunscreen.

Step 7: Be Consistent

Like any great achievement in life, consistency is key to realizing your dreams (including your skincare dreams😉). That smooth, beautiful, hydrated, dewy skin you’ve been dreaming about is not gonna create itself. You have to stay consistent with the process. Start with the basics ( cleanse, moisturize and SPF)  then, experiment and get to know your skin. When it comes to skincare for beginners, staying patient and consistent is what truly makes the difference.

Happy skin-caring! Now go have some fun with your routine—after all, your face deserves it! 😊💁‍♀️. Check out my guide on how to reset your week and stay organised.

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