How to Build a Realistic Skincare Routine for Your Skin Type (That You'll Actually Stick To)
Let’s be real — skincare can get overwhelming fast. Serums, toners, acids, oils, masks, “slugging”... what even is all this stuff?
The truth is, building a good skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the best routines are simple, consistent, and suited to your skin type.
Let’s break it down step by step so you can create a routine that actually works for you.
💧 Step 1: Know Your Skin Type
Before you even think about products, you need to know what you’re working with.
Here’s a quick guide:
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Normal skin – Not too oily, not too dry. You lucky duck!
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Dry skin – Feels tight, flaky, rough or dull.
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Oily skin – Shiny, greasy, prone to breakouts or blackheads.
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Combination skin – Oily in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), dry or normal elsewhere.
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Sensitive skin – Easily irritated, reacts to products, might sting, itch or go red.
If you’re not sure what your skin type is, we can help you figure it out during a consultation — or even with a quick chat at your next appointment!
🧼 Step 2: Nail the Basics
You don’t need a 12-step routine to get results. Stick with a simple core routine:
Morning Routine:
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Cleanser – Something gentle to refresh your face (no harsh scrubs, please).
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Moisturiser – Lightweight for oily skin, richer for dry skin.
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SPF – Every. Single. Day. (Yes, even when it’s cloudy.)
Evening Routine:
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Cleanser – To wash off makeup, dirt and the day.
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Treatment (optional) – Like a serum for hydration, acne, or pigmentation.
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Moisturiser – Help your skin repair while you sleep.
That’s it. Once you’ve got that down, you can slowly add other products like exfoliants or masks — if and when your skin needs them.
🧴 Step 3: Choose Products That Match Your Skin
Dry Skin:
Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or squalane. Avoid foaming cleansers that strip the skin.
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin:
Go for lightweight, oil-free products. Ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid or clay masks can help manage oil and breakouts.
Sensitive Skin:
Choose fragrance-free, soothing products with ingredients like aloe, oat or chamomile. Less is more here.
Combination Skin:
Balance is key! A gel cleanser and a lightweight moisturiser usually work well. You might need to treat different areas a little differently (e.g. a hydrating mask on dry cheeks, clay mask on the oily T-zone).
💡 Bonus Tips:
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Consistency beats perfection. Using a basic routine daily is better than doing a 10-step routine once a week.
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Introduce new products slowly. Patch test first and only add one new product at a time.
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Don’t copy influencers. What works for them might not work for your skin.
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Invest where it counts. A good cleanser, a targeted serum, and a solid SPF are worth it.
🌿 Need Help Building Your Routine?
We’re here for it! Whether you’re starting from scratch or need help adjusting your current routine, book a skin consultation with us and we’ll help you get your skin back on track — no confusion, no pressure, just honest advice.
You deserve to feel confident in your skin ✨