The skincare essentials worth knowing

Skincare can quickly become overwhelming. With countless products promising brighter, clearer and healthier skin, it’s easy to believe that an effective routine requires an extensive list of steps. In reality, most routines are built around a handful of essential products that support the skin and help maintain balance.

Understanding these core steps makes it far easier to build a routine that works — one that keeps skin healthy without unnecessary complexity.

Double Cleansing

Double cleansing has become a widely adopted method for thoroughly removing makeup, sunscreen and daily impurities. The process typically involves using an oil-based cleanser first to break down makeup and excess oil, followed by a water-based cleanser to cleanse the skin itself.

This two-step approach helps ensure the skin is properly cleansed without stripping it of its natural moisture.

Editor’s Picks

For dry skin

• Dermalogica PreCleanse Balm

• Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Cleanser

For oily or combination skin

• Estée Lauder Advanced Night Cleansing Balm

• Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Multi-Action Foam Cleanser

For sensitive skin

• Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm

• Byoma Milky Moisture Cleanser

For mature skin

• Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

• Elemis Pro-Collagen Energising Cleanser

Exfoliant

Exfoliating products help remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, encouraging smoother texture and a more radiant appearance. Regular exfoliation can also support skin renewal and help other skincare products absorb more effectively.

While exfoliating products can be beneficial, they are best used a few times a week rather than daily to avoid over-sensitising the skin.

Editor’s Picks

• Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

• Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant

Serum

Serums are concentrated formulas designed to target specific skin concerns. Depending on the ingredients used, they can address issues such as dehydration, dullness or uneven texture.

Because serums are lightweight and highly active, they are typically applied after cleansing and before moisturising.

Editor’s Picks

• BYOMA Hydrating Serum

• Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum

• Clinique Smart Clinical Repair Serum

Eye Cream

The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of the face, which is why many routines include a dedicated eye cream. These formulas are designed to hydrate the under-eye area and address concerns such as dryness, puffiness or fine lines.

When applied gently, eye creams can help maintain the appearance of smooth and well-hydrated skin.

Editor’s Picks

• Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Gel Creme

• Clinique All About Eyes

• Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream

• Estée Lauder DayWear Eye Cooling Anti-Oxidant Moisture Gel Creme

Moisturiser

Moisturiser plays a key role in maintaining the skin’s barrier and preventing moisture loss. Regardless of skin type, hydration is essential for keeping the skin balanced and comfortable.

A well-formulated moisturiser helps support overall skin health and is often the step that ties the entire routine together.

Editor’s Picks

For dry skin

• Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base

For oily or combination skin

• Clinique Moisture Surge

For sensitive skin

• Estée Lauder DayWear Multi Protection Anti-Oxidant Moisture Gel Creme

For mature skin

• Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream

Sunscreen

Daily sunscreen is widely regarded as one of the most important elements of a skincare routine. Protecting the skin from ultraviolet exposure helps prevent premature ageing and supports long-term skin health.

Applied as the final step in a morning routine, sunscreen acts as a protective shield against environmental stressors.

Editor’s Picks

• Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50

• Estée Lauder DayWear Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Sheer Tint Release SPF 15

• Clinique Superdefense City Block SPF 50

Targeted Treatments

Alongside the core steps of a routine, many people incorporate targeted treatments that address specific concerns.

Spot treatments are designed to treat individual blemishes and are typically applied directly to problem areas rather than across the entire face.

Under-eye masks deliver a concentrated boost of hydration to the delicate eye area. Often used before events or as part of a relaxing skincare routine, they can help refresh tired-looking skin.

Editor’s Picks

• Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

• Pixi DetoxifEYE Depuffing Eye Patches

A Balanced Approach to Skincare

While trends and new product launches appear constantly, the most effective skincare routines often remain relatively simple. Building a routine around a few well-chosen essentials can support healthy skin without unnecessary complexity.

Understanding these key products provides a strong foundation for skincare, allowing routines to evolve naturally as individual needs change.