Achieving healthy, glowing skin requires consistent care, and the foundation of a great skincare regimen is having a well-structured routine. We all want to maintain a youthful appearance and keep our skin looking vibrant.

By following a simple but effective five-step skincare routine, we can ensure our skin receives the attention it deserves every day. Whether we are just starting out or looking to improve our existing routine, these steps will help us achieve radiant skin.

Step 1: Cleanse

The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing. Cleansing removes dirt, oil, and impurities from our skin, providing a fresh base for the following steps. We want to use a gentle cleanser that suits our skin type—whether it's dry, oily, or sensitive. A good cleanser will cleanse our skin without stripping it of its natural oils. It's important to cleanse our face twice a day—once in the morning to remove any overnight buildup and once before bed to remove makeup, pollutants, and excess oil. We should avoid harsh cleansers that can damage the skin's protective barrier.

Step 2: Exfoliate

Exfoliation is the next crucial step in maintaining smooth, radiant skin. Over time, dead skin cells accumulate on the surface, making our skin appear dull. By exfoliating, we remove these dead cells and reveal the fresh, healthy skin underneath. We can choose between physical exfoliants (like scrubs) and chemical exfoliants (like AHAs or BHAs). Chemical exfoliants are often gentler on the skin and help improve skin texture over time. Exfoliating 2-3 times a week is generally sufficient—over-exfoliating can irritate our skin, so moderation is key.

5 STEP SKINCARE ROUTINE *not sponsored*

Video by Caitie June

Step 3: Tone

Toning is an often overlooked but essential step in our skincare routine. A toner helps to balance the skin's pH after cleansing, ensuring that it's neither too acidic nor too alkaline. In addition, toners can hydrate, soothe, and tighten the skin, providing extra nourishment. When selecting a toner, we should look for one that addresses our specific skin concerns. For example, those with oily skin may want to opt for a toner with salicylic acid to help control excess oil, while those with dry skin might prefer a hydrating toner with ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

Step 4: Serum

Serums are lightweight but powerful skincare products that target specific skin concerns. They contain concentrated ingredients that absorb deep into the skin to deliver active ingredients where they're needed most. Whether we want to reduce fine lines, brighten dark spots, or fight acne, there's a serum for every skin need. We should choose a serum based on our skin concerns and apply it after toning, before our moisturizer. It's important to allow the serum to absorb fully before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Moisturize

The final step in our skincare routine is moisturizing. Moisturizing helps lock in hydration, keeping our skin soft, smooth, and nourished. Regardless of our skin type, we should always moisturize—dry skin needs hydration to prevent flakiness, while oily skin benefits from a moisturizer that regulates oil production. We should look for a moisturizer that suits our skin's needs. If we have oily skin, a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer will work best, while those with dry skin might prefer a thicker, more emollient moisturizer. Applying a moisturizer in the morning and evening will ensure our skin stays hydrated throughout the day and night.

When it comes to skincare, consistency is the most important factor. We should stick to this routine daily to see long-term results. While it's tempting to try new products, it's essential to give our skin time to adjust to the routine and notice improvements. In addition to our skincare steps, it's important to stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and protect our skin from the sun. Together, these habits will work synergistically to keep our skin glowing and healthy for years to come.

By following this five-step skincare routine, we can ensure our skin stays clean, hydrated, and glowing. No matter our skin type or concern, a consistent regimen will help us achieve clear, radiant skin that we can feel confident about.