Simple 4-Step Daily Skincare Routine For Glowing Skin

Skincare doesn't have to be complicated to be effective. With just four simple steps, you can keep your skin clean, smooth, and hydrated without spending hours in front of the mirror. This simple routine-Cleanse, Exfoliate, Apply Serum, and Moisturize with Facial Oil-is perfect for achieving healthy, radiant skin with minimal effort.

 

Step 1: Cleanse (Morning & Night)

Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine. It removes dirt, oil, and impurities that accumulate throughout the day and night, preventing breakouts and dullness.

How to do it:

• Use a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type-gel or foam for oily skin, cream or balm for dry skin.
• Wash your face with lukewarm water (hot water can strip your skin's natural oils).
• Pat dry with a clean soft towel instead of rubbing to avoid irritation.

Pro Tip: If you wear makeup or sunscreen, double cleansing at night will help remove all residue for a deeper clean.

 

Step 2: Exfoliate (1-2 Times per Week) 

Exfoliation helps take off dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reveal a brighter complexion. There are two types of exfoliation:

• Physical exfoliation: Scrubs or brushes that manually remove dead skin cells (best for normal to oily skin types)
• Chemical exfoliation: AHAs (like glycolic or lactic acid) and BHAs (like salicylic acid) that dissolve dead skin and clear pores (gentler and more effective for most skin types)

How to do it: 

• After cleansing, apply a chemical exfoliant using a cotton pad or your fingers.
• If using physical exfoliant, gently massage it in circular motions.
• Avoid over exfoliating, 1-2 times per week is enough to prevent irritation.

Pro Tip: if your skin feels dry or sensitive, reduce exfoliation frequency and opt for a gentler formula.

 

Step 3: Apply Serum (Morning & Night) 

Serums are packed with concentrated ingredients that target specific skin concerns like hydration, brightening, or anti-aging.

How to do it: 

• Apply a few drops of serum to clean, dry skin.
• Gently pat (don't rub) the serum into your skin to help absorption. You can also use a face roller to massage the serum into your skin, this will also help the absorption of the serum.
• Let it fully absorb before moving on to the next step.

Best serums for your skin concern:

• Hydration: Hyaluronic Acid
• Brightening: Vitamin C
• Acne-prone skin: Niacinamide or Salicylic Acid
• Anti-Aging: Retinol (only use at night)

Pro Tip: Layer serums from thinnest to thickest consistency if using multiple.

 

Step 4: Moisturize with Facial Oil (Morning & Night) 

Facial oils provide better hydration by going deep into the layers of the skin. They give an extra boost of nourishment because they are more concentrated and help strengthen the skin barrier.

How to do it: 

• Apply a few drops of a lightweight facial oil to your face.
• Gently press the oil into your skin instead of rubbing it. You can also massage the facial oil with a Gua Sha stone for a relaxing lymphatic drainage massage.

Best oils for your skin type: 

• Dry Skin: Rosehip, Marula, or Argan Oil
• Oily Skin: Squalane or Jojoba Oil (lightweight and non-comedogenic)
• Sensitive Skin: Chamomile Oil or Cannabis Sativa Oil
  

 

This 4-step skincare routine-Cleanse, Exfoliate, Apply Serum, and Moisturize with Facial Oil-keeps your skin fresh, smooth, and hydrated with minimal effort. The key is consistency and using products that suit your skin's needs.

Want to learn how your diet impacts your skin? Check out my book Nourish Your Skin: A Guide to Nutrition for Healthy Skin. You can find it on www.tigerlilybeauty.ca

What's your favourite skincare step? Let me know in the comments.