Start with the core three

A working routine needs only a cleanser, a moisturizer and a sunscreen. Everything else — serums, acids, masks — is an upgrade, not a requirement. Get the basics consistent for a few weeks before adding anything new.

Cleansing without stripping

If your skin feels tight and squeaky after washing, the cleanser is too harsh. Gel cleansers suit oily and combination skin; cream and milky cleansers suit dry or sensitive skin. Once a day in the evening is enough for many people — a rinse with water in the morning is fine.

Moisturizer by skin type, not by hype

Lightweight gel creams with hyaluronic acid work well for oily skin; richer creams with ceramides and squalane suit dry skin. The best moisturizer is the one you will actually apply twice a day.

Sunscreen is the anti-aging step

Daily SPF 30+ does more for long-term skin quality than any serum. If your sunscreen pills under makeup or stings your eyes, try another formula rather than skipping the step.

Adding actives one at a time

Introduce one new active — vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol or an exfoliating acid — every two to three weeks. Adding several at once makes it impossible to tell what helps and what causes irritation.

Patch test new products

Apply a small amount behind the ear or on the inner forearm for a couple of days before putting a new product on your face, especially if your skin is reactive.