How To Build A Skin Care Routine

The skin is the largest organ in the body, and it is quite obviously also the most visible part. It’s pretty easy to understand that many people find healthy looking skin also makes them feel better and more confident.

Healthy looking (and functioning) skin usually takes a little bit of TLC. However, finding the perfect skincare products and routine to promote healthy looking skin isn’t normally simple. The process usually requires a heap of trial and error and an understanding of your skin to find out what it needs.

A skincare routine can sometimes differ based on the seasons, hormonal changes, or simply just changes in your lifestyle. Although all these facts may make it sound complicated, the ideal skincare routine almost always has the same set of products and steps that your skin needs. 

When in doubt, or getting started, just stick with a Cleanser, Moisturiser, and Sunscreen.

Routines are usually broken into Morning (AM) and Evening (PM) routines, as some ingredients are better used at night. Here is a quick guide you can follow when building out your skincare routine.

Step 1: Cleanse [Essential]

Daily facial cleansing is a crucial step of every skincare routine, both in the morning or night. It is your first step to removing dirt, excess facial oil, and pollution. Skipping cleansing has been known to work for some, but the vast majority of us need this step to help prevent breakouts and other skin conditions.

It’s usually best to start with a gentle facial wash. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin's natural oils too much, making your skin drier and duller.  A gentler cleanser can clean your skin while maintaining your skin barrier and avoiding drying it out.     

Step 2: Toner [Very Optional]

Some people opt to use a toner right after cleansing, but it is absolutely an optional part of the routine. Facial toners were originally formulated when cleanser technology wasn’t too great, as a way to reset your skin's pH levels.

Facial toners can sometimes help with skin concerns like minimise the appearance of pores. They also help clean up the dirt and impurities that your cleanser might have missed. They are not necessary, but toner can help add active ingredients like antioxidants to your skin.

Step 3: Serum [Very Optional]

Serums are another optional item in your routine. They will be beneficial if your skin needs powerful ingredients to treat acne, pigmentation issues, and dullness. Serums are usually designed to deliver active ingredients targeted to specific concerns. Consider choosing serums formulated for your specific skin concerns. However, it should be noted that a good moisturiser with active ingredients can offer the same benefits.

Step 4: Eye Cream [Very Optional]

Eye Creams are usually formulated to deliver active ingredients to a pretty sensitive area of skin. They’re not entirely necessary and are usually priced at a premium for what is usually a less powerful formulation, but some people still love using them.

The most common use of eye creams is to deliver active ingredients like peptides and vitamins to help reduce the signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles. Ensure that you dot your eye cream on and apply it gently, as the area around your eyes can be pretty sensitive.   

Step 5: Moisturiser [Essential]

A great moisturiser can keep your skin hydrated and functioning healthily, while delivering active ingredients, and forming a protective barrier. Regularly moisturising your face is a great way to address your specific skin concerns. Contrary to popular belief, acne-prone skin also requires a moisturiser, however be sure to choose one formulated for oily or acne-prone skin.

When your skin is appropriately moisturised every day, it can help your skin look and feel healthier, plumper, and softer.

Step 6: Sunscreen [Essential]

Sunscreen is one of the most important steps. UV damage is actually the leading cause of most skin concerns, not to mention skin cancer. It’s incredibly important to choose a sunscreen that you enjoy using, so you’re able to use it every day.

Sunscreen is always recommended when heading outside, or if you work indoors next to a window. Save some of your skincare dollars by making sure your skin is protected and that you reapply when necessary.

There are a few key differences with a night time routine - particularly the introduction of Exfoliation, Masks, and the removal of the Sunscreen Step.

Clease (essential)

Exfoliate (a couple nights a week only)

Toner (optional)

Mask (optional)

Serum (optional)

Eye Cream (optional)

Moisturiser (essential)
Sleep! (essential)

You may add more steps or treatment to your nighttime routine as needed. Sleep is also when your skin rejuvenates and recovers. Sleep is essential to maintaining healthy looking skin.

Keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all routine and no universal products to give you healthy skin. Each person has unique needs. Priorities also differ depending on season, hormonal shifts, and lifestyle. Nonetheless, keep in mind that the morning routine is all about protection while the nighttime routine focuses on renewal and repair. Choose what kind of care your skin needs at the moment and find the ideal product to help you achieve that.

If you want to reduce trial and error, you can always opt for custom skincare from us at August Skincare. We only produce products depending on what your skin needs to address to get real results. Furthermore, our products are one hundred per cent vegan and cruelty-free. Message us to learn how we do this.