Why a Good Skincare Routine Matters
Let’s be honest, skincare can feel overwhelming. There are so many products, ingredients and routines out there that it’s easy to wonder, “Where do I even start?”
But looking after your skin doesn’t have to mean having a bathroom shelf full of products. A few simple steps, done consistently, can make a huge difference.
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For me, it all starts with cleansing, toning and exfoliating, followed by products that support and protect your skin barrier.
Step One: Cleanse... and if you wear makeup, double cleanse!
One of the most important things you can do for your skin is simply clean it properly at the end of the day.
If you wear makeup, I recommend double cleansing. Your first cleanse helps break down makeup, SPF and the day’s build-up, while your second cleanse cleanses the skin underneath.
And yes, even if you haven’t worn makeup, cleansing your face at night is still important. Your skin has been exposed to everything throughout the day, so giving it a fresh start before bed is a must.
The key is choosing a cleanser that suits your skin type. If you’re oily, look for something that removes excess oil without leaving your skin feeling tight. If you’re dry or sensitive, choose something gentle and hydrating.
You can find my carefully chosen skincare recommendations in my ShopMy skincare edit.
Step Two: Tone. Give your skin a little extra love
Once you’ve cleansed, it’s time for toner.
A good toner can add an extra layer of hydration, help prepare your skin for the rest of your routine and support your skin’s natural balance. The important thing is choosing one that works with your skin, rather than against it.
If your skin is dry or sensitive, look for a hydrating, soothing toner. If you’re looking to brighten a dull complexion or improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, there are toners formulated with those goals in mind.
And remember: cleansing and toning should ideally be part of your evening routine, particularly when you’re removing makeup.
Step Three: Exfoliate. But don’t overdo it!
Exfoliation is one of my favourite steps because it can make such a noticeable difference to how your skin looks and feels.
It helps remove the build-up of dry and dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smoother, softer and fresher. It can also help your makeup sit more beautifully on the skin, because let’s face it, foundation looks so much better when it’s not catching on dry patches!
But here’s the important part:
You don’t need to exfoliate every day.
I recommend exfoliating once or twice a week. Over-exfoliating can irritate your skin and compromise your skin barrier, which can leave you dealing with dryness, sensitivity and irritation, exactly what we’re trying to avoid!
I’ve recommended an exfoliator in my shop that I personally use and absolutely love. It’s excellent for sensitive skin and isn’t overly abrasive, making it a lovely option if you’re looking for effective exfoliation without that harsh, scratchy feeling.
You can find it alongside my other skincare favourites here:
Vitamin C: My little brightening secret 🍊
If your skin is looking a little dull, I also recommend introducing vitamin C into your routine.
You could choose a vitamin C face wash or, if you want to incorporate a more targeted product, a vitamin C serum.
Vitamin C is well known for helping to brighten the appearance of the complexion and improve the look of uneven skin tone, leaving your skin looking fresher and more radiant.
A serum is generally the more targeted option, while a vitamin C cleanser is an easy way to introduce the ingredient into your routine.
Don’t forget your skin barrier
One thing I really believe in is looking after your skin barrier.
Your skin barrier is there to help keep moisture in and protect your skin from external irritants, so stripping your skin with too many harsh products isn’t the answer.
This is one of the reasons I love BYOMA. Their products focus on hydration and supporting the skin barrier, making them a great addition to a skincare routine when you want your skin to feel comfortable, hydrated and cared for.
After cleansing and toning, apply your chosen hydrating or barrier-supporting product before your moisturiser.
It’s all about giving your skin the support it needs rather than constantly trying to strip, scrub and “fix” it.
And finally… don’t try to do everything at once!
If you’re completely new to skincare, please don’t feel like you need to go out and buy ten products tomorrow.
In fact, I wouldn’t recommend it.
If you’ve been doing very little, start with a gentle cleanser. Give your skin time to get used to it. Then introduce a toner. Once your skin is happy, you can gradually add other products such as vitamin C and an exfoliator.
Going from nothing to a full seven-step routine overnight can leave your skin irritated and wondering what on earth you’ve done to it!
Keep it simple. Keep it consistent.
A basic routine could look like:
Every evening:
Cleanse → Tone → Hydrate/Treat → Moisturise
1–2 times a week:
Cleanse → Exfoliate → Tone → Hydrate → Moisturise
For brighter-looking skin:
Consider adding a vitamin C product suited to your skin.
And don’t forget your SPF during the day especially if you’re using brightening or exfoliating products.
Your skin doesn’t need perfection. It needs consistency, patience and the right products for you.
I’ve put together my own skincare recommendations, including products I’ve personally tried and love, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through endless options.
Please remember that everyone’s skin is different. Introduce new products gradually, particularly if you have sensitive skin, and stop using anything that causes persistent irritation.
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