trying to figure out an effective skin care routine can make you feel like you need a science degree. Which products should you use, and in what order? What’s the difference between a serum and a treatment? While your specific routine and products may vary depending on your individual needs, a healthy skin care regiment begins with four steps to keep your complexion clean, healthy, and protected. 

A Guide to Basic Skin Care

1. Cleanse

Cleansing is the foundation of any skin care routine and should be done in the morning and evening to remove dirt, pollutants, makeup, and oils that can clog pores and lead to acne. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser that won't remove healthy oils from your skin and cause dryness. Exfoliate weekly (any more can cause irritation) using a gentle scrub that doesn’t contain any abrasive ingredients like crushed walnut shells.

2. Tone

If any step in the skin care routine is optional, it’s applying toner. This step adds extra nutrients to your skin and helps other products to work better. Choose a toner based on your individual needs. For instance, toners containing vitamins E and C can help fight signs of aging, while green tea is calming for irritated skin. Apply the toner using a thin cotton pad or your fingers after washing your face. 

3. Apply Serum

Packed with helpful ingredients, serums are concentrated versions of treatments that can help with everything from reducing acne to diminishing age spots. Retinol serums, for example, help fight the fine lines that come with aging. A general antioxidant serum used in the morning can help prevent skin damage from free radicals. Apply the serum as directed and avoid mixing with moisturizer, as that can reduce its effectiveness. 

4. Moisturize

Even if your skin tends to be oily, you still need moisturizer to keep it hydrated. Ideally, you should use a moisturizer that contains a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from sun damage. Your dermatologist may recommend a daytime moisturizer that protects against damage from the sun and free radicals, and a thicker night cream that replenishes moisture and speeds cell turnover. 

If you need help choosing the right products for a skin care routine that helps you look and feel your best, turn to the dermatologists at Rustad Dermatology PC in Lincoln, NE. For more than 40 years, Dr. Rustad has helped patients with acne, psoriasis, and melanomas, offering skin care solutions that work. Schedule an appointment by calling (402) 484-6222 or learn more about their medical and surgical dermatology online.