
Beauty products can be expensive, so skincare becomes an investment. But how do you know what products to get? With the help of your jar of coconut oil and your guessing “Aha!” moment, sure. There’s a better way to select some of the best products for skin care routine.
To get his advice, we interviewed Dr. Craig Kraffert, a board-certified dermatologist and president of the American Academy of Dermatology. He shared his insights on everything from choosing the right cleanser to finding the serum that works for you. So whether you’re starting from scratch or just want to improve your current skincare routine, this is the ultimate guide for building your own skincare routine. The basic steps of a skincare routine are cleansing, toning, exfoliating, moisturizing, and using sunscreen.
Know your skin type.
Before you can start putting together a skincare routine, you need to know what skin type you have. Otherwise, you could end up using products that are too harsh or irritating for your skin, which can lead to more breakouts and sensitization.
Normal, oily, dry, and combo skin types are the four most common. You can usually tell which category your skin falls into by how it looks and feels.
If your skin is feeling tight and dry after cleansing, or if you tend to break out in patches of flaky skin, then you probably have dry skin. And if your skin is shiny and prone to breakouts, then you likely have oily skin. You have combo skin if it is halfway between the two extremes of dry and oily.
And finally, if your skin is relatively clear with few blemishes and feels comfy most of the time, then you probably have normal skin.
In my opinion, once you’ve determined your skin type, you can start putting together a routine that will work best for you. Be sure to use gentle, non-irritating products that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. And make sure to moisturize regularly!
The ideal way to use products for skin care
In terms of starting a new skincare routine from scratch, you might be wondering what the best order is for using skin care products. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started: In terms of starting a new skincare routine from scratch, you might be wondering what the best order is for using skin care products. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:
- Cleanser: Start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.
- Toner: Follow up with a toner to help balance your skin’s pH levels and prep your skin for the next steps.
- Exfoliator: Exfoliate once or twice a week to slough off dead skin cells and reveal radiant skin.
- Serum: Apply a serum packed with active ingredients to target your specific skin concerns.
- Moisturizer: Finish off your routine with a moisturizer to hydrate and protect your skin from environmental damage.
STEP-1: Cleanser
How to Choose a Cleanser?
When it comes to choosing a cleanser, there are a few things you need to take into account. First, consider your skin type. If you have oily skin, you’ll want to look for a cleanser that’s specifically designed for that. Conversely, if you have dry skin, you’ll want to find a cleanser that won’t strip away too much moisture.
Second, think about what other skin concerns you might have. For example, if you’re dealing with acne, you’ll want to find a cleanser that’s gentle but effective. Finally, don’t be scared to do some small-scale experiments. There are so many different cleansers on the market nowadays, so it’s definitely worth trying out a few before settling on one that’s right for you.
- Best for oily skin: RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser by Paula’s Choice
- Best for normal-dry skin: Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser by La Roche-Posay
- Best for all skin types: Hydrating Facial Cleanser by CeraVe
- Best for acne-prone skin: Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face Wash by Neutrogena
- Best for sensitive skin: VITAL C Hydrating Facial Cleanser by IMAGE Skin care





STEP-2: Toner
How to Choose a Toner?
When it comes to choosing a toner for your skincare routine, it is important to consider your skin type. If you have dry skin, you will want to avoid toners that contain alcohol, as they can further dry out your skin. Instead, opt for a hydrating toner that will help to replenish your skin’s moisture levels. If you have oily skin, you will want to choose a toner that will help to control oil production and minimize the appearance of pores. You may also want to consider a toning mist, which can be used throughout the day to refresh and hydrate your skin.
- Best for all skin types: Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner
- Best for sensitive, dry skin: Hydrating Toner for Face Non-Alcoholic with Hyaluronic Acid by CeraVe
- Best for Normal skin types: Oil- and Alcohol-Free Facial Toner by Neutrogena
- Best for Oily Skin: Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner for Combination and Oily Skin by Paula’s Choice


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STEP-3: Exfoliator
Everything about the exfoliator
Do you want to get rid of dead skin cells and have glowing skin? Then, you need to exfoliate! Any good skincare regimen must include exfoliation. It helps to slough off dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reveal smooth, radiant skin.
There are two main types of exfoliators: physical and chemical.
Physical exfoliators use mechanical action to slough away dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliators use acids or other ingredients to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells.
Both types of exfoliators have their own benefits and drawbacks. Use this guide to choose the right type of exfoliator for your skin type and needs.
The Best Chemical Exfoliators: To Add in Your Skin Care Products
- Best for all skin types: SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant by Paulas Choice
- Best anti-aging formula: Pumpkin Enzyme Face Mask with Jojoba Beads by DRMTLGY


Physical Exfoliators: To Add in Your Skin Care Products
If you have sensitive skin or are new to exfoliation, start with a physical exfoliator. Physical exfoliators are typically gentler than chemical exfoliators. They can be used more frequently without causing irritation.
There are two main types of physical exfoliators: scrubs and brushes. Scrubs typically contain abrasive particles that help to slough away dead skin cells. However, brushes do the same job as scrubs. “Brushes are not required, but they may be helpful for people who use a lot of cosmetics,” say experts.
- Best for all skin types: Transforming Walnut Scrub by Ole Henriksen
- Best for sensitive skin: Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Exfoliating Daily Facial Scrub by Aveeno
- Best brightening scrub: Sea Kelp & French Green Clay by Acure



STEP-4: Serum
Benefits of Serum and why our skin needs it?
Our skin needs a lot of care and nourishment in order to stay healthy and look its best. One important step in achieving this goal is to use a serum. A serum is a light, oil-free moisturizer that is typically applied before your regular moisturizer.
There are many benefits to using a serum, including the following: They help to
- Hydrate the skin.
- Brighten the skin and even out skin tone.
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Protect the skin from environmental damage.
- And also, boost the effectiveness of other products in your skincare routine.
If you are looking for ways to improve your skincare routine, consider adding a serum to your daily routine. You will be glad you did! My personal choices are these:
- Best Vitamin C Serum: VITAL C hydrating anti-aging serum by Image SkinCare
- Best for sagging & rejuvenating skin: TNS Advanced+ Serum by SkinMedica
- Best for dry skin: C+E+Ferulic Serum by SkinCeuticals
- Best serum for skin care: Active Serum, Anti-Acne Brightening Face Serum, Anti-Aging assists with hyperpigmentation by iS CLINICAL




STEP-5: Moisturizer
How do you choose a moisturizer based on your skin type? and its benefits.
When it comes to choosing a moisturizer, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. You must first determine your skin type. Do you have dry skin? Oily skin? Sensitive skin? Combination skin? Once you know your skin type, you can narrow down your options and choose a moisturizer that will work best for you.
There are many benefits to using a moisturizer, regardless of your skin type. Moisturizers help to hydrate and nourish your skin, giving it a healthy glow. They can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and protect your skin from environmental damage.
Points to Consider while Selecting Products for Skin Care
- The best moisturizer for dry skin is one that has plenty of emollients and humectants. These components will assist in retaining moisture and keeping your skin moisturized.
- A mild, oil-free moisturizer that won’t clog your pores is what you should search for if you have oily skin.
- And, if you have sensitive skin, avoid harsh ingredients and fragrances, and opt for a hypoallergenic formula.
No matter what your skin type is, be sure to choose a moisturizer that suits your needs. With so many options on the market, you’re sure to find one that works for you!
- Best for dry skin: Regenerist Micro-sculpting cream by Olay
- Best Skin Brightening: PEPTIDES & ANTIOXIDANTS FIRMING DAILY TREATMENT by allies of skin
- Best for oily skin: Effaclar Mat Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturizer by La Roche-Posay
- Best for sensitive skin: Natural Purely Simple Face Cream by Osmia Organics




STEP-6: Sunscreen
One of the most essential steps in any skincare routine is using sunscreen. No matter what time of year it is or whether you’re indoors or outdoors, sunscreen is a must to help protect your skin from damage. But with so many sunscreens on the market, how do you know which one to choose?
Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a sunscreen:-SPF: The sunscreen’s SPF (sun protection factor) will determine how much protection it offers against the sun’s UV rays. A higher SPF means more safety.
- Broad-spectrum: Look for a sunscreen that is labeled “broad-spectrum” to ensure it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Water resistance: If you’ll be sweating or swimming, look for a sunscreen that is water resistant.
With so many sunscreens to choose from, it can be overwhelming. But by keeping these factors in mind, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect sunscreen for your needs! H
- Best broad-spectrum sunscreen: Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 70 UVA/UVB Protection by Neutrogena
- Best water resistance: Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 70 by Neutrogena

