New to skincare or simply need a refresher on the basics? Welcome to the wonderful world of skincare! With the insurgence of new products over the past few years, there are hundreds of cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and more on the market, and it can definitely feel overwhelming. While everyone has a unique skin type — dry, oily, combination, sensitive (check out our top picks for sensitive skin!) — sometimes all you need is a simplified regime to get you started. We’ve consulted the experts and compiled your guide to skincare with splurge and save options!
Image via Pinterest
Step 1: Cleanser
Begin your routine with a gentle cleanser to use twice a day— in the morning to cleanse from oils and sweat from your hair and pillow from sleeping, and before you go to bed.
Splurge: First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser $22
Save: AHC Aqualuronic Cleanser $11
Step 2: Serum
While your face is slightly damp after cleansing, apply a serum (we love vitamin C!) to brighten and rejuvenate your skin.
Splurge: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Vitamin C Day Serum $80
Save: L’Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensive Vitamin C Serum $18
Images via Drunk Elephant & L’Oreal
Step 3: Eye cream
The skin around your eyes is more fragile and prone to dryness, so give it some extra care with a hydrating eye cream.
Splurge: Peter Thomas Roth Vital-E Microbiome Age Defense Eye Cream $47
Save: RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream $25
Step 4: Moisturizer
Using a moisturizer is key— after stripping your skin of its natural oils during cleansing, replenish and hydrate with a gentle moisturizer.
Splurge: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Calming Gel Cream $48
Save: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream $16
Step 5: Sunscreen
Remember all those times your mother told you to wear your sunscreen? It’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful rays and skin cancer, no matter what age you are.
Splurge: Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 $36
Save: La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen $20
Images via Supergoop & La Roche-Posay
Self-care and showing yourself some love are so important, and we’re here to help you take it easy and destress. Check out another one of our posts to enhance your self-care practices!
Did our guide to skincare help you? What are some of your holy-grail skincare products?