A Simple Morning Skin Care Routine, Step By Step
Four unhurried steps that fit between the alarm and the front door, and how to adjust them across the seasons.
A morning routine does not need a long shelf of products. Most skin care guides come back to the same short order: cleanse, moisturize, protect. The rest is personal preference.
1. Start with lukewarm water
Very hot water can feel pleasant, but many people find it leaves their skin feeling tight. Lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, or just water on days when the skin feels dry, are a common starting point.
2. Pat, do not rub
A soft, clean towel and a light patting motion take only a few seconds. Keeping a separate towel for the face and washing it often is an easy habit to keep.
3. Apply a moisturizer
Moisturizers come as gels, lotions and creams. Gels and lotions feel lighter, while creams feel richer. Choosing one is mostly a matter of how it feels through the day, and many people keep a lighter one for summer and a richer one for winter.
4. Finish with sunscreen
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for skin not covered by clothing. A common reminder is to include the neck, the ears and the backs of the hands, which are easy to miss.
Small things that help the habit stick
- Keep everything in one place, in the order it gets used.
- Tie the routine to something already automatic, such as brushing teeth.
- Try one new product at a time, so it is clear what feels good.
- Check the date on opened products every few months.
This article is general information for everyday reading. It is not medical advice. For any question about your skin, talk to a dermatologist or another qualified professional.