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Building a skincare routine can feel overwhelming with countless products on the market promising miracle results. But the truth is, an effective routine does not need to be complicated. After testing over 100 products as a beauty blogger, I am sharing exactly how to create a simple skincare routine that actually works for your skin type.

The Basic Framework: Your AM and PM Routine

Every effective skincare routine follows a simple framework. In the morning, your goal is protection from environmental stressors and UV exposure. At night, your focus shifts to repair, regeneration, and treating specific skin concerns while you sleep.

The fundamental order of application should be thinnest to thickest texture. This ensures each product can actually penetrate and work effectively. Start with cleansers, move to toners, follow with serums, lock in moisture with creams, and always finish with SPF during the day.

If you are wondering how to build a skincare routine from scratch, I recommend starting with these non-negotiables: a gentle cleanser appropriate for your skin type, a hydrating serum, a quality moisturiser, and broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Step 1: Cleanse

Every routine starts with a clean canvas. Whether you prefer a lightweight gel cleanser or a cleansing balm that melts away makeup, removing dirt, excess oil, and pollutants is absolutely essential.

For dry or dehydrated skin, I find cream based cleansers work beautifully without stripping natural oils. Oily skin types benefit from gel formulas that cut through excess sebum effectively. The Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm is my all time favourite for a thorough yet gentle cleanse.

Pro tip: Double cleansing in the evening is a game changer. Start with an oil based balm or micellar water to dissolve sunscreen and makeup, then follow with your water based cleanser for a thorough clean.

Step 2: Treat

This is where the magic happens in any skincare routine. Serums deliver concentrated active ingredients exactly where your skin needs them most.

Vitamin C is my go to daytime antioxidant. It protects against environmental damage, brightens skin tone, and boosts collagen production. The Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum is a brilliant option for radiant skin.

For hydration, the Inkey List Ectoin Hydro Barrier Serum delivers exceptional value with proven ingredients.

When shopping for serums, always check the ingredient list and stick to formulations with proven actives like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides, and of course, vitamin C. You can find authentic products at verified promo code for exclusive discounts.

Step 3: Moisturise

No skincare routine is complete without proper hydration. Even if you have oily skin, skipping moisturiser actually triggers more oil production as your skin tries to compensate for dehydration.

Look for formulations that contain ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. The Dr Jart Ceramidin Cream is an excellent option for all skin types.

Apply moisturiser to slightly damp skin to lock in maximum moisture.

Step 4: SPF

This is arguably the most critical step in any morning routine. Daily sun protection prevents premature ageing, dark spots, and reduces skin cancer risk.

The Murad City Skin SPF50 is my top pick for sensitive skin, offering invisible protection that does not clog pores.

Building on Your Basics

Once you have established the core routine above, you can start incorporating targeted treatments. Consider adding retinol at night for proven anti-aging benefits, or a weekly chemical exfoliant for improved skin texture.

The best skincare routine is one you will actually stick to consistently. Start simple, be patient with the results, and adjust based on how your skin responds throughout the seasons.

Ready to start building your routine? You can shop all the products I have mentioned at exclusive Sephora discount and explore luxury skincare deals for premium formulations.

Thank you so much for reading! I hope this guide helps you build a routine that makes you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.

Kisses Nicola xxx

Now I would love to hear from you! What is your current biggest skincare struggle? Drop your questions in the comments and do not forget to share this post with your beauty loving friends. You can also follow my skincare adventures on Instagram for daily tips and product reveals.