Simple Skincare Routine for Beginners: Morning and Night

Quick answer: a simple skincare routine for beginners has four steps in the morning (cleanse, serum, moisturiser, sunscreen) and three at night (cleanse, serum, moisturiser). Add anything else only when you have a specific reason, and only one new product at a time. Here is what each step does and what to look for.

Key takeaways

• Morning: cleanse, serum, moisturiser, sunscreen. Night: cleanse, serum, moisturiser.
• Sunscreen is the single most important step for the long-term look of your skin.
• Add one new product at a time and give it 8 to 12 weeks before judging results.
• If skin stings, burns or turns red, stop the newest product.

Morning routine: 4 steps

1. Cleanse

Wash with a gentle cleanser to remove oil and overnight buildup. If your skin is dry or tight in the morning, rinsing with water alone is fine. For normal to oily skin, the Radiant Glow Facial Wash is a gentle daily option made for those skin types. If you are blemish-prone, the Blemish Purifying Face Wash is pH-balanced and made without harsh surfactants.

2. Serum

A serum is a lightweight, concentrated step. Apply it to slightly damp skin. The Peptide Serum contains Hexapeptide-11, hyaluronic acid and aloe juice, helps skin look smoother and feel hydrated, and sinks in quickly so you can move straight on.

3. Moisturise

Moisturiser helps keep skin comfortable and supports the skin barrier. The Peptide AM/PM Cream is made for morning and night use.

4. Sunscreen

Sunscreen protects against UV light, which is a leading cause of visible ageing and dark spots. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it as your last step every morning, even on cloudy days. Reapply if you spend time outdoors.

Night routine: 3 steps

1. Cleanse. This removes sunscreen, sweat and the day. If you wear makeup, cleanse twice.
2. Serum. Use the same serum, or a treatment if you have a specific concern.
3. Moisturise. Use the same cream, or a richer one if your skin feels tight.

Optional add-ons for specific concerns

• Puffy-looking eyes: a few drops of Caffeine Gel Booster in the morning. Read what to expect from caffeine eye gel.
• Dark spots: Targeted Dark Spot Care on the spots at night. Read the kojic acid guide first.
• Blemishes: follow our blemish-prone skin routine.
• Deeper eye-area care: Peptide Eye Cream morning and evening.

Rules that keep a routine simple

• Start with the basics for two to four weeks before adding anything.
• Add one new product at a time, and wait at least two weeks before adding another.
• Apply products from thinnest to thickest.
• Patch test new products on your inner forearm or behind your ear.
• Judge results after 8 to 12 weeks, not after a few days.

How much should a routine cost?

A routine does not need ten products. A cleanser, serum, moisturiser and sunscreen cover the basics. If you want to try before you commit to full sizes, start with one or two products and add more once you know how your skin responds. Shipping is free over $75. Offers can change, so check the cart.

Frequently asked questions

What order do I apply skincare in?

Cleanse, then serum, then moisturiser, then sunscreen in the morning. Apply thinner products first.

Do I need a serum?

Not strictly. Cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen are the essentials. A serum is a useful way to add a targeted ingredient.

Can I use the same products morning and night?

Often yes, except sunscreen, which is morning only. Some actives, such as retinol, are for night only.

How long until I see results?

Plan on 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use for most skincare changes.

How many products should a beginner use?

Three or four. Add more only if you have a clear reason.

Keep reading

• Peptides vs retinol: which should beginners start with?
• A gentle routine for blemish-prone skin

This article is general information about cosmetic products and is not medical advice. Cosmetic products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition.