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Routine basics

Face routine, step by step

Do these in order. Skip nothing on your first routine — you can add fancier steps once the basics are a habit.

  1. 1

    Cleanse

    Morning and evening. A splash of water in the AM is fine if your skin is dry.
    What it is:
    Wash your skin to lift off oil, sweat, sunscreen, and the day's grime.
    Why you do it:
    Starting clean lets everything after it actually absorb and work — and stops buildup that leads to breakouts and dullness.
    Goal:
    Clean but comfortable. If your skin feels tight or squeaky afterward, the cleanser is too harsh — switch to a gentler one.

    Good starting picks

  2. 2

    Treat

    Usually in the evening. Many actives make skin sun-sensitive, so pair them with morning SPF.
    What it is:
    The 'active' step — a serum, gel, or medicated product aimed at one specific concern.
    Why you do it:
    This is where real change happens: clearing acne, calming a condition, fading dark spots, smoothing texture.
    Goal:
    One concern at a time. Introduce a new active slowly (every other night) — more product is not faster results, just more irritation.

    Good starting picks

  3. 3

    Moisturize

    Morning and evening, as the last step before sunscreen (AM) or as the final step (PM).
    What it is:
    A cream or lotion that adds water-binding ingredients and seals them in.
    Why you do it:
    It keeps your skin barrier healthy so it can repair itself and tolerate actives without getting red and flaky.
    Goal:
    Supple and comfortable — never greasy, never tight. Lighter gels for oily skin, richer creams for dry.

    Good starting picks

  4. 4

    Protect (SPF)

    Morning only — it's your last step.
    What it is:
    Broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, every single morning.
    Why you do it:
    Sun is the number-one cause of aging, dark spots, and many flare-ups. It's the highest-payoff step in any routine — full stop.
    Goal:
    Apply enough (about two finger-lengths for the face) every morning, rain or shine, and reapply if you're outside.

    Good starting picks

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Not medical advice — consult a dermatologist. Conditions are self-declared and never diagnosed by this app.