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Here’s How to Commit to a Skincare Routine, Once and For All

Don’t skimp on giving your skin the regular nourishment it requires.

The key to maintaining a sparkling complexion? Developing a custom skincare routine that addresses your unique needs — and sticking with it. For best results, you should establish distinct morning and evening routines with separate sets of products. For example, while you may want to apply a heavy moisturizer before sleep, a light moisturizer with SPF is better suited for the daytime.

Here’s how you can shape a skincare routine built to last from products available in the drugstore beauty aisle.

The Magic Ingredients

While there’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to skincare, most regimens will include these basic elements: cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. Each product performs a different function — cleansers wipe off the day’s dirt and oil; toners soften and calm skin while removing any remaining traces of makeup; and moisturizers hydrates your skin for a glowing appearance.

Whether your skin is oily, dry, acne-prone, or a combination, rest assured — you can find a product in each of these categories built for your needs. In addition to these standard components, incorporate personalized treatments that address specific issues, like acne medication, exfoliants, and anti-aging products.

After gathering your set of products, apply each in a deliberate order. In the morning, be sure to use your cleanser, toner, and moisturizer with SPF before applying makeup. When the day is done, apply more visible (and thus less practical for daytime wear) skincare products, like colored spot treatments or thick face masks.

Stick To It

Unfortunately, a perfect complexion won’t appear overnight. If you want to see fewer blemishes and smoother texture, you’ll have to work at it every day. After identifying the ingredients necessary for your skincare routine, try a few of the following tips to help you on your road to long-term glowing skin.

First, store all of your acne-fighting products and applicators in one convenient location. In your groggy morning haze, you won’t want to scramble around looking for moisturizer. Keeping all your products together in one place will ensure that you never skip a step in the process.

Second, buy skincare products that you’re actually excited to use. Keep your eyes peeled for products that offer a refreshing scent, a cleansing sensation, and proven results.

Finally, since you’re likely never far from your cell phone, use it to ensure that you stick to your skincare routine. Set a daily reminder about an hour before you’d usually wash your face. That way, you can wrap up whatever you’re doing with plenty of time to spare for your bedtime skincare ritual.

If you’re planning to invest in a skincare routine, seek counsel from a dermatologist in selecting the right products for you.