How to build a skincare ritual that you will actually keep

Demo article: products mentioned here are fictional and shown for demonstration only.

A good routine is one you can repeat on a busy Tuesday. Start with three or four steps, add more only when you know why you need them.

The morning

1. Cleanse — a gentle cleanser or simply water if your skin is dry.

2. Serum (optional) — one concentrated step for your main concern: hydration, glow, or the look of pores.

3. Moisturize — lighter textures for oily skin, richer creams for dry skin.

4. SPF — always the last step.

The evening

1. Cleanse — remove sunscreen and makeup; a balm or oil first if you wear long-wear makeup.

2. Targeted care — this is where retinol or exfoliating acids go, on alternate evenings rather than together.

3. Moisturize — a cream, or a sleeping mask a few times a week.

Thin to thick

Apply products from the most watery to the richest: toner, serum, cream, oil. SPF goes on top in the morning.

One new product at a time

Introduce a new product every week or two, and patch test it first on a small area. That way, if something does not suit you, you will know which product it was.

Some pairs work better apart

Retinol and exfoliating acids are better on different evenings. Vitamin C is happiest in the morning, acids in the evening. Our consultant checks these combinations for you when it suggests a routine.