The Best Everyday Skincare Routine for Glowing Skin

Written by: Cora Gold

Everyone wants a glowing complexion, but achieving it requires a few steps and patience. At its most basic, your skincare routine should include a cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturizer. But if you truly want radiant skin, you must incorporate additional steps into your regimen to reach your skin goals. Discover the best morning and nighttime skincare routine to help you achieve that luminous glow.

Cleanser

Every skincare routine starts with cleansing. Oil and bacteria accumulate on your skin daily, making deep cleansing essential. A good cleansing product helps clear your pores and eliminates the residue of grime, oil, makeup, dirt and sweat that often settles on your face when you’re asleep or out of the house.

When to use: Every morning and evening

Considerations: Use a mild cleanser, as harsh products can disrupt the natural skin barrier, which protects your skin from overdrying. Practice double cleansing at night, especially if you wear makeup daily. This method uses an oil-based cleanser first and then a water-based product. The goal is to give your skin a thorough cleansing.

Toner

A toner helps remove leftover oil and dirt. However, not all toners are created equal. Depending on the ingredients, they serve different purposes. For instance, hydrating toners usually contain humectants, while some products are formulated to reduce the oiliness contributing to acne. To apply, pour a small amount onto a cotton pad and apply to your skin based on the product’s instructions.

When to use: Every morning and evening

Considerations: Know your skin issue before buying a toner. If you have dry skin, use a product with glycerin or hyaluronic acid. Invest in toners with chemical exfoliants — such as salicylic or glycolic acid — for exfoliating purposes. Exfoliate two to four times weekly if you have normal to oily skin. If you have sensitive or dry skin, once a week should suffice.

Serums

Serums are high-concentrated, nutrient-dense skincare products that address a specific skin issue. Like toners, their effects will vary depending on the ingredients. For instance, a vitamin C serum in the morning can help protect skin cells from sun damage, which is essential if you’re going outside. Gently tap the ample amount of serum into your face and neck.

When to use: Every morning and evening, depending on your serum’s ingredients

Considerations: Consider your skin type and concerns. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, pick a serum with salicylic acid or tea tree oil. For sensitive skin, focus on products that help promote skin moisture.

Spot Treatment

This skincare product is a cream, patch or gel used at night to treat active acne, blemishes, scarring and uneven skin tone. It usually contains high concentrations of active ingredients, such as adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or azelaic acid. It’s normally used for six to eight weeks or as prescribed by a dermatologist.

When to use: Every night, only if necessary

Considerations: A spot treatment is only required if you have existing skin concerns like acne. Apply it before using moisturizer.

Moisturizer

In the morning, moisturizer helps your skin stay hydrated throughout the day. At night, this product helps return your skin’s moisture lost during the day. This product has various categories and purposes, including preventing water loss through the skin, reducing visible flakes, and adding water to the skin.

When to use: Every morning and evening

Considerations: Look for humectant ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, to boost your skin’s water content. You can also use night creams with anti-aging ingredients, such as retinol, to help reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Sunscreen

Your last morning skincare step should always end with sunscreen. This product helps protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Look for a sunscreen with broad-spectrum coverage and a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to prevent sunburn and premature skin aging.

When to use: Every morning

Considerations: In addition to your face, apply sunscreen to your neck, chest and ears. When spending long periods outdoors, lather sunscreen all over your exposed skin.

Retinol

Retinol is a type of retinoid that helps improve skin cell turnover, clear clogged pores and treat acne. It can also help improve your skin’s overall texture. However, it can make your skin sensitive to the sun, so it’s best used only at night.

When to use: One or two times a week at night

Considerations: Start with a mild formulation to reduce the risk of irritation. Consult with a dermatologist first to ensure the product suits your skin type.

Get That Enviable Glow

Your dream complexion is possible with the right products, dedication and patience. Follow these steps to achieve clearer, more glowing skin.