When it comes to skincare, understanding your skin type is the first step in creating an effective beauty routine. Different skin types have unique needs, and selecting the right products can make a huge difference. Here’s a guide to skincare routines for each skin type, along with product recommendations that will help you achieve a glowing complexion.

Oily skin tends to produce excess sebum, which can lead to shine and breakouts. The goal for oily skin is to balance oil production without stripping the skin of moisture.

Morning Routine:

• Cleanser: Use a gel-based or foaming cleanser to remove excess oil without drying out the skin. Look for products with ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil to help control acne.
• Toner: Opt for a mattifying toner with ingredients like witch hazel to tighten pores and control shine.
• Moisturizer: Even oily skin needs moisture, but choose an oil-free, lightweight gel moisturizer to hydrate without clogging pores.
• Sunscreen: Choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen to protect against UV damage.

Evening Routine:

• Cleanser: Double cleanse if you’ve been wearing makeup or sunscreen to thoroughly remove impurities.
• Serum: A salicylic acid or niacinamide serum can help with oil control and acne prevention.
• Moisturizer: Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to maintain hydration.

Recommended Products:

• Cleanser: CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
• Toner: Thayers Witch Hazel Toner
• Moisturizer: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
• Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

Dry skin often feels tight, flaky, or rough. The goal for dry skin is to restore moisture, soothe irritation, and provide nourishment.

Morning Routine:

• Cleanser: Choose a gentle, hydrating cream or oil-based cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
• Toner: A hydrating toner with ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid will replenish moisture.
• Serum: Opt for a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid to draw moisture into the skin.
• Moisturizer: Look for rich, emollient moisturizers with ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, and oils (such as jojoba or almond oil) to lock in hydration.
• Sunscreen: Use a hydrating sunscreen to keep the skin protected while maintaining moisture.

Evening Routine:

• Cleanser: Use the same hydrating cleanser as in the morning.
• Serum: Apply a nourishing serum or oil that provides deep hydration.
• Moisturizer: Use a thicker moisturizer to create a barrier overnight.

Recommended Products:

• Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
• Toner: Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner
• Serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
• Moisturizer: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra
• Sunscreen: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel SPF 50

Sensitive skin can react to many products, leading to redness, irritation, or dryness. The goal for sensitive skin is to use gentle products that calm and protect the skin.

Morning Routine:

• Cleanser: Use a fragrance-free, soothing cream or milk cleanser to avoid irritation.
• Toner: Choose an alcohol-free toner with calming ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera.
• Serum: Apply a soothing serum with ingredients like niacinamide or calendula to reduce redness and inflammation.
• Moisturizer: A gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer with calming ingredients like oat extract or ceramides is ideal.
• Sunscreen: Look for a mineral sunscreen that’s gentle on sensitive skin and free from harsh chemicals.

Evening Routine:

• Cleanser: Use the same gentle cleanser from the morning routine.
• Serum: Apply a calming serum to repair and soothe irritated skin.
• Moisturizer: Finish with a rich moisturizer that locks in hydration without causing irritation.

Recommended Products:

• Cleanser: Aveeno Ultra-Calming Hydrating Cleanser
• Toner: Bioderma Sensibio Tonique
• Serum: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
• Moisturizer: Vanicream Moisturizing Cream
• Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30

Combination skin features areas of both dryness and oiliness. The goal is to balance the oiliness in some areas while hydrating drier areas.

Morning Routine:

• Cleanser: Use a gentle foaming cleanser that cleans without over-drying.
• Toner: Opt for a balancing toner with mild exfoliants to control oil while hydrating the dry areas.
• Serum: Use a lightweight serum that targets both oil control and hydration.
• Moisturizer: Choose a gel-based moisturizer that hydrates but doesn’t feel heavy on oily areas.
• Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that’s suitable for all skin types.

Evening Routine:

• Cleanser: Use a gentle foaming cleanser to remove makeup and dirt without stripping the skin.
• Serum: Apply a serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration and salicylic acid for oil control.
• Moisturizer: Use a lightweight moisturizer to hydrate without adding extra oil.

Recommended Products:

• Cleanser: CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
• Toner: Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner
• Serum: The Ordinary Buffet + Copper Peptides
• Moisturizer: Clinique Moisture Surge 72-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
• Sunscreen: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 45