The Basics Of A Good Skincare Routine

We get it: skincare can be overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be! With all the products, trends, and advice floating around, it’s easy to feel like you’re missing something or not doing it right. But the truth is, you don’t need a million products to keep your skin happy and healthy. While some of those trendy products are great, sometimes less is more. You can keep your skincare routine short and sweet while still seeing amazing results with consistency.

Whether you’re just starting out on your skincare journey or looking to simplify your current routine to just the basics, at AP Smilecare we’re here to break it down for you. Start with the essentials, and as your confidence in skincare grows, you can start adding more products or keep things as simple as you like – let’s get started!

Step 1: a good cleanser

Cleansing is the essential first step in any skincare routine, and it’s one of the most important. Its main job is to remove dirt, oil, sweat, makeup, and other impurities that build up on your skin throughout the day. Cleansing helps prevent clogged pores, which can lead to nasty breakouts or other skin issues. But before you pull the first cleanser you see off the shelf at the supermarket, let’s take a moment to consider your skin type.

Different skin types require different ingredients in a cleanser to get the best results – it’s not a one-size-fits-all! If you have dry skin, go for a gentle, alcohol-free cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of the moisture it needs. A hydrating cleanser will be your best friend; just remember to rinse it with warm, not hot, water to avoid drying your skin out further.

For oily skin, an oil-free foaming cleanser will help balance oil production. If your skin is on the sensitive side, stick with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser that won’t cause irritation. Always rinse with warm water and gently pat your skin dry with a clean – no rubbing! A good cleanser will leave your skin feeling fresh, clean, and prepped for the next steps in your routine. It’s generally recommended to cleanse at least once a day. Most people prefer doing it in the morning and evening, but ultimately, it’s all about what works best for your skin.

Step 2: time to tone

The second step in our basic skincare routine is toner. If you’re not sure what toner is, it’s essentially a liquid moisturiser that you apply after cleansing your face. Its job is to help balance your skin’s pH levels and make sure there’s no leftover oil or makeup lingering after you’ve cleansed. But that’s not all – toner also works wonders for tightening your pores and keeping your skin hydrated.

If you choose a toner with anti-inflammatory ingredients, it can even help calm redness and irritation from things like acne or blemishes. It’s simple to use, too; just add a little of the product to a cotton pad and gently wipe over your face and neck, and you’re done! The best part? You don’t need to wash it off! Just let it soak into your skin, and you’re good to go.

Step 3: a reliable moisturiser

The next step in any good skincare routine is moisturising, and it’s a must for everyone! Whatever your skin type, a good moisturiser helps keep your skin hydrated and soft. Moisturising, as the same suggests, locks in the moisture your skin needs to stay plump and smooth throughout the day.

If you have dry skin, a richer, more nourishing moisturiser will help restore that much-needed moisture, while if you have oily skin, a lighter, oil-free moisturiser will keep things balanced without feeling greasy. The key is to apply your moisturiser while your skin is still a little damp from toning – this helps seal in the hydration and keep your skin feeling fresh all day.

Step 4: a trusty SPF

The final step of your skincare routine is all about protecting your skin with SPF or sunscreen, and trust us, it’s non-negotiable! Even on cloudy days or in winter, the sun’s harmful UV rays can still damage your skin. Using SPF every day helps protect against sunburn, premature ageing, and even skin skin cancer. Apply it generously after moisturising, and make sure to cover all exposed areas – including your face and neck.

There are plenty of lightweight, non-greasy formulas out there that can sit perfectly under makeup, too! Even if you’re not spending much time outdoors, 15 minutes of sun exposure is enough to cause harm, and if you’re doing that daily, it really adds up, so it’s best to just make SPF part of your routine. When choosing an SPF, you want to look for one that is at least SPF 30 for the best results!

Of course, we can only provide some broad guidelines in this post. Ultimately, the most successful skincare routine will be the one that works best for your skin, so feel free to tweak this routine to suit your needs. If you need more help or advice or you’re interested in booking an appointment for lip fillers or anti-wrinkle treatments, feel free to reach out to our friendly team for a chat on 01282 297 000.

Rather than relying solely on over-the-counter products, we tailor our treatments to each patient, using medical-grade ingredients for powerful, long-lasting results!