Building Your Skincare Routine

The Right Order Matters

Skincare products should be applied from thinnest to thickest consistency.

Morning Routine

1. Gentle cleanser — removes overnight oil without stripping
2. Vitamin C serum — antioxidant protection (wait 1 minute to dry)
3. Moisturizer — locks in hydration
4. Sunscreen SPF 30+ — last step, generous application

Evening Routine

1. Oil cleanser (if wearing sunscreen/makeup) — dissolves products
2. Water-based cleanser — removes remaining residue
3. Active treatment — retinoid OR exfoliating acid (not both)
4. Moisturizer — supports skin barrier repair overnight

The Introduction Schedule

Don't start everything at once. Add one new product every 2 weeks:

• Week 1–2: Cleanser + moisturizer + sunscreen
• Week 3–4: Add vitamin C (morning)
• Week 5–6: Add retinoid (evening, 2x/week)
• Week 7–8: Increase retinoid to every other night
• Week 9+: Increase to nightly if tolerated

Common Mistakes

• Over-exfoliating — damages your skin barrier
• Mixing actives — retinoids + AHAs/BHAs = irritation
• Skipping moisturizer — even oily skin needs hydration
• Inconsistency — results require 8–12 weeks minimum

"A simple routine you actually follow beats a complex one you abandon." — Dr. Nina Okonkwo