Every person’s skin is different, and any skincare regimen should be customized for both skin type and unique skin concerns. However, there are a few essential steps, and selecting the proper skincare formula for each one is key for maintaining the health and appearance of the skin. The basic skincare regimen includes facial cleanser, a vitamin C antioxidant, moisturizer, and sunscreen to cover the skin’s cleansing, hydration, and environmental-protection needs. The addition of toner, serums, and retinol skincare products can further help address specific skin concerns and amplify the results of any core skincare regimen.

Even if your skincare regimen doesn’t include all of these steps, application should follow this order.

In the morning

1. Cleanse
2. Toner
3. Vitamin C serum
4. Corrective serum*
5. Moisturizer
6. Sunscreen

In the evening

1. Cleanse
2. Toner
3. Corrective serum
4. Retinol skincare products
5. Moisturizer

*When applying multiple serums, apply the one with the lightest, most fluid consistency first. Give the serum a chance to absorb before applying additional serums.

Skin type is defined by how much sebum (oil) your skin naturally produces. Skin types include normal, dry, oily, and combination and there are general characteristics associated with each. Although determined by genetics, factors such as aging, hormonal fluctuations, change of seasons, or traveling to a different climate can have an effect on one’s skin type. Temporary or longer-term adjustments to your skincare regimen may be necessary to maintain the comfort, health, and appearance of the skin.

Normal skin: This skin type is neither too oily nor too dry and does not experience sensitivity, enlarged pores, or excess shine.

Dry skin: Dry skin typically has small, barely-visible pores, and it can appear dull and flaky, or feel tight (especially after cleansing). A skincare regimen for dry skin should include formulas that are designed to provide extra hydration and reinforce the skin’s barrier to help prevent moisture from evaporating.

Oily skin: Genetics, hormones, or stress can cause the skin to produce excess sebum (oil) that leaves the skin more prone to full-face shine, breakouts, and larger, more visible pores that can extend beyond the nose to the cheeks and forehead. A skincare regimen for oily skin helps reduce excess oil and shine while decongesting pores and minimizing their visibility.

Combination skin: This skin type is dry in some areas (usually the cheeks) and oily in others (especially the forehead, nose, and chin). The proper skincare regimen for combination skin helps restore balance by addressing the moisture needs of these different spots.

Just as diet and exercise help maintain a healthy body, a comprehensive skincare regimen helps maintain healthy skin. Cleansing helps keep the skin clear of excess oil, dirt, and impurities that can lead to clogged pores, as well as dead skin cells that can lend a dull, lackluster appearance. Skincare products like topical antioxidants and sunscreen work in tandem to protect the skin from environmental free radicals that contribute to premature signs of aging. Targeted skincare serums are important for correcting specific skin concerns, such as visible signs of aging, discoloration, sensitivity, and more. Selecting the proper skincare regimen for your skin type and concerns is ideal way to keep your skin looking and feeling its best both today and for the long-term.

It’s easy to find the best SkinCeuticals skincare regimen for your skin with our Regimen Finder. This quick quiz helps guide you to the best skincare products based on your age, gender, skin type, and main skin concern.