A great skincare routine is not the one with the most steps or the priciest products. It's a small set of well-chosen basics, used in the right order, every day. Three products used consistently will do more for your skin than ten used at random.
The core steps that actually matter
Strip skincare back and almost everything falls into a few jobs: cleanse, treat, moisturise, and protect. Everything else is optional refinement.
Your morning routine
Mornings are about protection for the day ahead:
- Gentle cleanser (or just water if your skin is dry).
- Antioxidant serum such as vitamin C (optional but powerful).
- Moisturiser suited to your skin type.
- Sunscreen, SPF 30+ — the single most impactful step.
Your evening routine
Nights are about cleaning off the day and repair:
- Cleanser (double-cleanse if you wore sunscreen or makeup).
- Active treatment such as a retinoid or exfoliating acid — a few nights a week to start.
- Moisturiser to seal everything in.
The golden rule of order
Apply from thinnest to thickest texture: watery serums before creams, and always sunscreen last in the morning. This lets each layer absorb properly instead of being blocked by a heavier one on top.
Consistency over complexity
Skin rewards routine. A simple regimen you actually follow every day beats an elaborate one you abandon after a week. Add actives slowly, one at a time, so you can tell what's working.
Not sure which products fit your skin type? Take the skin quiz or get a personalised routine.
FAQ
How many steps should a skincare routine have?
As few as it takes to cleanse, moisturise and protect. Three or four well-chosen steps used daily beat a ten-step routine you can't keep up.
What order do I apply skincare?
Thinnest to thickest: cleanser, watery serums, then creams. In the morning, sunscreen always goes last.
Do I need a toner?
Not necessarily. A modern hydrating toner or essence can help, but it's optional — cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen are the essentials.
Should morning and night routines be different?
Yes. Mornings focus on antioxidants and sun protection; nights focus on cleansing off the day and repair actives like retinoids.