The school holidays are over, the uniforms are back out and mornings are suddenly a lot more rushed. When you are trying to get everyone dressed, fed and out of the door on time, a long skincare routine probably is not going to happen.
The good news is that you do not need ten different products to look after your skin properly. A simple routine you can follow consistently is much more useful than an elaborate one you rarely have time to complete.
1. Gentle cleanser
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove sweat, oil and any skincare left on your skin from the night before. Your skin should feel comfortable afterwards, not tight, dry or squeaky clean. If cleansing leaves your face feeling stripped, the product may be too harsh for your skin.
If your skin is particularly dry or sensitive, you may find that rinsing with lukewarm water is enough on some mornings.
2. Moisturiser
Apply a moisturiser suited to your skin type while your skin is still slightly damp. Even oily and blemish-prone skin can benefit from moisturiser. The key is choosing the right texture.
A lightweight lotion or gel may feel better on oily skin, while dry or sensitive skin may prefer a richer cream. Moisturiser helps support your skin barrier and can make your skin feel smoother and more comfortable throughout the day.
3. SPF for longer periods outdoors
If you know you will be spending a long period outdoors, add an SPF as the final product in your morning routine.
Your routine in two or three products
Keep it simple with a gentle cleanser followed by a moisturiser suited to your skin. Add SPF as your third product if you will be spending a long period outdoors.
Keep your routine where you can see it
If your skincare is hidden away in a drawer, it is easy to forget when everyone is rushing around. Keep your cleanser and moisturiser together beside the bathroom mirror. If you expect to be outdoors for a long period, keep your SPF somewhere easy to remember too.
Simple does not mean ineffective
Start with cleansing and moisturising. If you have a specific concern, such as acne, pigmentation, dryness or signs of ageing, it may be worth adding one carefully chosen active ingredient. The best active will depend on your skin, your concern and the products you already use, so ask me for advice before choosing one or combining several active products.
Not sure which products suit your skin? My online skin consultations include personalised product and routine recommendations, helping you spend less time guessing and more time using products that are appropriate for your skin.