How to Know What Skincare Routine Is Best for Your Skin
With all the skincare products and “advice” on social media, it can feel very confusing to know what’s truly best for your skin. The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. According to Dr. Alyssa Findley, the key is understanding your skin type, addressing your main concerns, sticking to a consistent routine and trusting the experts (board-certified dermatologists).
Step 1: Identify Your Skin Type: This helps you choose products that support your skin.
Oily skin: Shiny, enlarged pores, and prone to acne. Best suited for lightweight, oil-free products.
Dry skin: Feels tight, flaky, or rough. Use rich, hydrating creams and gentle cleansers.
Combination skin: Oily in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) but dry on the cheeks. Balanced formulas usually work best.
Sensitive skin: Reacts easily with redness, burning, or irritation. Prioritize fragrance-free products and put a stress on gentle moisturization.
Normal skin: Balanced and not overly oily or dry. Gentle maintenance products are best to maintain your healthy skin.
Step 2: Focus on Your Main Skin Concerns: Once you know your skin type, identify your top concerns, but don’t try to fix everything at once. Start with your top priority.
Acne: Look for products specially formulated to prevent clogging of your pores. Use gentle exfoliants and targeted treatments. Reach out early to a dermatologist to avoid long-term scarring.
Aging: Incorporate antioxidants like vitamin C and retinol to boost collagen and smooth fine lines.
Uneven tone or dark spots: Brightening agents such as niacinamide or glycolic acid can help.
Dryness or sensitivity: Stick to fragrance-free cleansers and thick moisturizers.
Step 3: Build a Basic Routine: Every skin type and every age can benefit from these three skincare must-haves. “These three steps are non-negotiable,” says Dr. Findley. “Once you have them in place, we can customize further depending on your goals.”
Cleanser: Removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin.
Moisturizer: Keeps your skin barrier hydrated and protected.
Sunscreen: Protects against UV damage and worsening of acne, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Step 4: Introduce New Products Slowly: It’s tempting to overhaul your entire skincare routine at once, or try the latest products or mask shown on social media, but that often leads to irritation and worsening of one’s skin. Dr. Findley recommends slowly adding in new products and giving your skin time to adjust. This way, if you have a reaction to something, you’ll know what caused it.
Step 5: Seek Professional Guidance: While trial and error works for some, the fastest path to results is professional advice. Our providers can evaluate your skin type, medical history, and concerns to design a plan tailored to you. Whether you’re battling acne, addressing fine lines, or just wanting to protect your healthy glow, expert guidance ensures you’re not wasting money on products that don’t work.
Your Best Skin Starts Here
The best skincare routine is the one that’s built for you. By understanding your skin type, prioritizing concerns, starting simple, and getting expert input, you’ll be well on your way to clear, healthy, and radiant skin.
Ready to create a routine that works? Schedule an appointment today and let our team guide you toward your healthiest skin yet.