8 min
How to build a skincare routine that works for you
Rethinking your skincare routine? We explain the basic steps in a skincare routine and why they may be different for the morning and night. But for advice that’s really tailored to your skincare concerns, it’s best to consult a health professional.
Consider asking a GP or dermatologist for professional advice.
Start your journeySteps in a skincare routine
Whether you have a slapdash or a rigorous approach to skin care, at some point you may wonder if you need to change what you do to achieve your best skin. It can be hard to know what to do to take care of your skin. Plus, the plethora of products in the market and overload of ‘get ready with me’ videos online may only add to your confusion!However, the basic steps in a skincare routine are simple. They are:1,2
Step 1
Cleanse
Wash your face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. The cleanser should effectively get rid of any dirt and excess oil without irritating or drying your skin.6 If you have sensitive skin, sun-damaged skin or skin issues such as acne or eczema, it’s best to use a cleanser that does not contain soap or fragrance to avoid skin irritation.7 After washing, gently pat your face dry with a soft towel.8
Step 2
Moisturise
Moisturisers play an important role to improve skin hydration and help strengthen its barrier.2 There are many types of moisturisers. Some contain emollients, which are oily ingredients that may help to soften and smoothen skin.4 Other moisturisers may include occlusive ingredients, such as petroleum jelly or paraffin, that form a protective barrier on your skin to reduce water loss.2,4 Some moisturisers contain glycerine or hyaluronic acid, which act like a sponge to retain water.The type of moisturiser you should use depends on your skin type and how hydrated it is. You may need to ask a GP or skin specialist for specific recommendations for a moisturiser suitable for your skin.5
Step 3
Treat
If you are using a skin treatment, apply it to your skin after cleansing.1 The type of treatment will of course depend on your skin concerns. For instance, if you have sun-damaged skin, treatment options may include retinoid creams with or without vitamin C or vitamin E, alpha hydroxy acids and nicotinamide.3 If you are using a prescription skincare product, follow your doctor’s advice on how to use it and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine.
Step 4
Apply sunscreen
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher should be part of your morning routine, particularly on days when the UV level is forecasted to be above 3 or higher, as it may help prevent sun damage.6 If you have sun damaged skin, it is still critical to apply sunscreen to prevent further damage.3 Remember that sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before you go outside and reapplied every 2 hours if you are spending time outdoors.7
Morning and night skincare routines
The steps for the morning versus night skincare routines are in the same order. However, there are some key differences between morning and night skincare routines.
Morning
- Cleanse to remove any grime or residue built up overnight
- During the daytime, avoid using any treatments that may cause your skin to be sensitive to the sun9
- Apply sunscreen as the last step of your routine
Night
- Remove any makeup with an oil-free makeup remover before cleansing8
- If you need to use any treatments that may cause sun sensitivity, apply them at night 9
- No need to apply sunscreen
Skincare routines for men
There are some differences between men’s skin and women’s skin: men’s skin tends to be thicker, oilier and with more pigmentation than women’s.10 However, the basic skincare steps remain the same.11
Build your skincare routines with professional advice
Speak to a GP or dermatologist for advice on your skin concerns and how best to take care of your skin. If appropriate, they may also recommend skin treatments that are only available with a prescription and advise you on how to incorporate them into your skincare routine.
Start your journeyReferences
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Should I apply my skincare products in a certain order? https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/apply-skin-care-certain-order (accessed August 2024)
- Goh C-L et al. Expert consensus on holistic skin care routine: Focus on acne, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and sensitive skin syndrome. J Cosmet Dermatol 2023;22:45-54.
- Australasian College of Dermatologists. Ageing skin. https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/ageing-skin/ (accessed August 2024).
- DermNet. Emollients and moisturisers. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/emollients-and-moisturisers (accessed August 2024).
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. How to pick the right moisturizer for your skin. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/pick-moisturizer (accessed August 2024).
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. 10 skin care secrets for healthier-looking skin. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/healthier-looking-skin (accessed August 2024).
- Cancer Council Cancer Council. About Sunscreen. https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety/about-sunscreen (accessed August 2024).
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Makeup tips for acne-prone skin. https://www.aad.org/news/makeup-tips-acne-prone-skin (accessed August 2024).
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Retinoid or retinol. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/retinoid-retinol (accessed August 2024).
- Rahrovan S et al. Male versus female skin: What dermatologists and cosmeticians should know. Int J Womens Dermatol 2018;4(3):122-130.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Skin care tips for men. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/skin-care-for-men (accessed August 2024).
AU-2024-08-0084. Date of approval: October 2024.
