Daily Routines
Dermatologist-recommended routine structures to help organize your skincare based on established guidelines.
Morning Routine
Based on: American Academy of Dermatology
Cleanser
Remove overnight oil and prepare skin
The AAD recommends a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. Some may prefer water only in the morning.
Toner (Optional)
Balance pH and prep skin for next steps
Not essential for everyone. Skip if it causes irritation.
Antioxidant Serum (Optional)
Protection against environmental damage
Vitamin C is commonly used in the morning to enhance sun protection.
Moisturizer
Hydrate and protect skin barrier
The AAD recommends moisturizing daily, even for oily skin (use oil-free formulas).
Sunscreen
Protection against UV damage
The AAD recommends SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum, applied daily as the last skincare step.
Evening Routine
Based on: American Academy of Dermatology
Makeup Remover / First Cleanse
Remove makeup and sunscreen
Micellar water, cleansing oil, or balm can help dissolve makeup effectively.
Cleanser
Clean skin of remaining residue
Double cleansing (oil-based then water-based) is effective for thorough removal.
Treatment Products
Address specific concerns
Retinoids, acids, or targeted treatments typically used at night. The AAD notes to introduce new actives gradually.
Moisturizer
Support overnight skin repair
Can use a richer formula at night than during the day.
Eye Cream (Optional)
Address delicate eye area
The AAD notes that regular moisturizer can often be used around eyes unless it causes irritation.
Routines by Skin Type
Adjusted routines based on different skin needs.
Dry Skin
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Morning
- 1. Gentle cream or milk cleanser
- 2. Hydrating toner (optional)
- 3. Hyaluronic acid serum
- 4. Rich moisturizer
- 5. Sunscreen
Evening
- 1. Gentle oil or cream cleanser
- 2. Hydrating cleanser
- 3. Hydrating serum or retinol (alternate nights)
- 4. Rich night cream or facial oil
The AAD recommends applying moisturizer to damp skin. Look for ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
Oily Skin
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Morning
- 1. Gel or foaming cleanser
- 2. Lightweight serum (niacinamide, vitamin C)
- 3. Oil-free moisturizer
- 4. Sunscreen (look for 'non-comedogenic')
Evening
- 1. Oil-based cleanser to dissolve sebum
- 2. Gel cleanser
- 3. BHA (salicylic acid) or retinol
- 4. Lightweight moisturizer
The AAD notes that oily skin still needs moisturizer. Skipping it can increase oil production.
Combination Skin
Source: Dermatologist Consensus
Morning
- 1. Gentle gel or cream cleanser
- 2. Lightweight serum
- 3. Moisturizer (lighter on T-zone if needed)
- 4. Sunscreen
Evening
- 1. Oil cleanser or micellar water
- 2. Gentle cleanser
- 3. Targeted treatments where needed
- 4. Moisturizer
May benefit from using different products on different areas of the face.
Sensitive Skin
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Morning
- 1. Fragrance-free gentle cleanser (or water)
- 2. Soothing serum (optional)
- 3. Fragrance-free moisturizer
- 4. Mineral sunscreen
Evening
- 1. Gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
- 2. Fragrance-free moisturizer
- 3. Introduce actives very slowly if at all
The AAD recommends fragrance-free products and patch testing new products. Less is often more.
Seasonal Adjustments
Source: Dermatologist Recommendations
Summer
- •Lighter moisturizers may be preferred
- •Increased emphasis on sunscreen and reapplication
- •Consider antioxidant serums for pollution/UV protection
Winter
- •Richer moisturizers to combat dryness
- •Consider humidifier use for indoor heating
- •Sunscreen still needed (UV reflects off snow)
Transitional (Spring/Fall)
- •Gradually adjust product weight
- •Good time to introduce new products as skin stabilizes
Common Routine Mistakes
✗Using too many active ingredients at once
✓Introduce one new active at a time, allowing 2-4 weeks to assess
✗Over-exfoliating
✓The AAD notes signs of over-exfoliation include redness, peeling, and irritation. Scale back if this occurs.
✗Skipping sunscreen on cloudy days
✓UV rays penetrate clouds; daily use is recommended
✗Expecting immediate results
✓Most products take 4-12 weeks of consistent use to show results
✗Using hot water to wash face
✓Lukewarm water is recommended to avoid stripping natural oils
✗Not applying products to damp skin
✓Many products (especially moisturizers) work better on slightly damp skin
Note: These routine structures are general guidelines based on dermatologist recommendations. Individual needs vary, and not everyone needs every step. If you have specific skin concerns or conditions, consult a board-certified dermatologist for personalized advice.