The 4 Skincare Basics You Should Include In Your Routine

Shopping for skincare can be very stressful. How is one to know what products she needs with seemingly hundreds of different types and endless quantities of choices? And how to use them, more importantly? We got you, don't worry. This handy guide includes everything with the fundamentals. Here are the four products which form the basis of a good skincare routine — more helpful information on how to use each — and of course a few great recommendations. 

1. Cleanser

What it does: It cleans your skin from makeup, dirt, oil, and other impurities.
How to use: Apply a small amount to wet skin and then rinse. 
When to use it: You should cleanse your face in the morning and at night. Remember cleansing is the most important part to achieve clear skin.

Try:

For oily skin: Cosrx Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser dissolves pore-clogging dirt and oil and help prevent acne and blemishes.
For all skin types: Cosrx Low PH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is mild yet effective, for anyone.
For dry or sensitive skin: The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is hydrating, gentle, and won’t irritate even the most sensitive of skin.

2. Moisturizer

What it does: It moisturises your skin to prevent it from looking and feeling dry.
How to use: Apply a quarter-size amount across your entire face after cleansing and before applying makeup. Apply it before sunscreen in the morning.
When to use it: Use it in the morning and at night.

Try:

For oily skin: Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Cream does double-duty, both hydrating and minimise excess sebum.
For all skin types: Beauty Of Joseon Dynasty Cream is rich but not too heavy, and loaded with good-for-your skin antioxidants.
For dry or sensitive skin: The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors is the ideal solution for superdry, red, irritated, or otherwise unhappy skin, thanks to its blend of complexion-repairing ingredients.

3. Sunscreen

What it does: Protects your skin from sun damage, which can lead to skin cancer and ageing signs such as wrinkles and spots.
How to use it: Apply a 2 fingers rule quantity all over your face. Apply it to clean skin and let sit for a few minutes to absorb prior to sun exposure.
When to use it: Use it daily, reapply every 2-4 hours.

Try:

For oily skin: 3W Clinic Intensive UV Sunblock Cream SPF50+ is non-greasy, and moisturizing sunscreen.
For all skin types: Aloe Soothing Sun Cream Spf50+ provides hydration and sun protection with SPF50 PA+++ and aloe leaf extract to keep skin moisturized even on the hottest days.
For dry skin: 3W Clinic Collagen Sun Screen Spf50+ contains hydrated collagen and collagen amino acid to moisturize and smooth skin.
 

4. Exfoliator

What it does: Removes dead skin cells that accumulate on the top layer of your skin, making it appear dull.
How to use it: Depending on your skin type and the product you’re using, anywhere from 2-3 times per week. 
When to use it: At night, after cleansing. Apply a moisturizer afterward.

Try:

For oily skin: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is an exfoliating toning solution with seven percent glycolic acid helps to exfoliate, reduce blemishes and refine texture.
For all skin types: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + Ha  offers very mild exfoliation to reduce signs of inflammation and sensitivity that is often associated with exfoliation.
For dry or sensitive skin: The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + Ha provides for gentle exfoliation to help reduce dullness and uneven texture, fine lines and wrinkles.