How to Build a Simple Skincare Routine for Beginners

How to Build a Simple Skincare Routine for Beginners

Jan 27, 2025Tatiana Della PIa

With the overwhelming number of skincare products on the market today, and the popularity of elaborate 10-step Korean skincare routines, it can be hard to know where to start. To help simplify things, we’ve partnered with reputable, high-grade skincare brands like iS Clinical, AFA, and Rejudicare to create a straightforward skincare routine tailored for normal, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types. Our goal is to provide you with a no-fuss, results-driven approach to achieving healthier skin.

Before we dive into the specific steps for each skin type, let’s break down what each product category means and why it’s important:

Cleanser:
A cleanser is the foundation of any skincare routine. Its job is to remove dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities from your skin, allowing the rest of your products to work more effectively. For normal skin, a gentle hydrating cleanser will do the trick. Acne-prone skin benefits from a cleanser that helps to balance oil production and unclog pores, often containing ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. For sensitive skin, opt for a fragrance-free, mild cleanser that won't strip or irritate your skin.

Toner:
A toner helps to restore the skin’s natural pH balance after cleansing. It also helps to prep the skin, allowing the next steps in your routine (like serums and moisturizers) to absorb better. Toners can serve different purposes depending on skin type: hydrating toners for dry skin, exfoliating toners for acne-prone or oily skin, and soothing toners for sensitive skin. Look for toners with ingredients like witch hazel for acne, or aloe vera for soothing irritated skin.

Serum:
A serum is a concentrated treatment that targets specific skin concerns such as pigmentation, wrinkles, acne, or dehydration. Serums are typically packed with active ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide, which penetrate deeply into the skin. For normal skin, a hydrating serum might be beneficial, while acne-prone skin could benefit from a serum containing salicylic acid or niacinamide. Sensitive skin should look for serums with calming and anti-inflammatory ingredients like calendula or chamomile.

Moisturizer:
A moisturizer is key to keeping the skin hydrated and maintaining its moisture barrier. Even oily or acne-prone skin needs moisture—just look for lightweight, non-comedogenic options that won’t clog pores. For normal skin, choose a standard moisturizer that supports hydration without being too greasy. Acne-prone skin may benefit from gel-based moisturizers, while sensitive skin should opt for gentle, fragrance-free formulas with soothing ingredients like ceramides or shea butter.

Sunscreen:
Sunscreen is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine. It helps to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can lead to premature aging, pigmentation, and skin cancer. Apply sunscreen every morning, even if you’re indoors, as UVA rays can penetrate windows. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks around 98%. While the difference may seem small, higher SPF offers more protection for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, or for anyone who spends extended periods outdoors. It’s essential to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours for full protection.

What’s the Difference Between SPF 30 and SPF 50?
When it comes to SPF (Sun Protection Factor), the higher the number, the greater the protection against UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburn. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. Although the difference may sound minor, it can be crucial for people with sensitive skin, those prone to pigmentation, or anyone spending long hours outside. Additionally, people with acne-prone skin may benefit from higher SPF, as UV exposure can exacerbate breakouts or hyperpigmentation. For everyday use, SPF 30 is generally sufficient, but for those who are outdoors frequently or have specific skin concerns, SPF 50 might be a better choice.

Let's get started, first stop iS Clinical

For Normal Skin:

iS CLINICAL Cleansing Complex (6 oz) by iS Clinical

  • Cleanser: Cleansing Complex
    Awarded Best Cleanser, this lightweight, daily gel effectively cleanses the skin without stripping or drying, making it suitable for all skin types. Its gentle yet thorough cleansing action leaves the skin refreshed, smooth, and balanced.

Active Serum

  • Serum: Active Serum
    This potent, fast-acting serum has been clinically proven to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin discoloration. It’s ideal for all skin types, providing comprehensive anti-aging and skin-renewing benefits.

  • Moisturizer: Reparative Moisture Emulsion
    An intensive hydrating moisturizer, this formula combines pharmaceutical-grade botanicals and powerful antioxidants to help keep skin smooth, healthy, and protected. It delivers deep hydration while promoting a rejuvenated appearance.

  • Sunscreen: Eclipse SPF 50+
    A lightweight, ultra-sheer sunscreen perfect for daily use and extended outdoor activities. This non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula offers broad-spectrum protection with a matte finish, ensuring skin stays shielded from harmful UV rays.

For Acne-Prone Skin:

  • Cleanser: Cleansing Complex
    As with normal skin, Cleansing Complex is a daily, gentle gel cleanser that effectively removes impurities without drying or irritating the skin. It’s designed to maintain balance and prevent clogged pores, making it an excellent choice for acne-prone skin.

  • Serum: Active Serum
    This high-performance serum is especially beneficial for acne-prone skin. It helps reduce breakouts and promotes clearer, smoother skin. With clinically-proven results, it improves the overall texture and appearance of the skin.

Hydra-Cool Serum (15ml)

  • Serum: Hydra-Cool Serum
    This hydrating and soothing serum helps rejuvenate the skin by delivering intense hydration while calming redness and irritation. It’s an excellent addition to the routine for acne-prone skin, helping to restore a healthy, balanced complexion.

  • Sunscreen: Eclipse SPF 50+
    Offering superior protection against harmful UV rays, Eclipse SPF 50+ is ideal for acne-prone skin, as it provides a matte, non-greasy finish while keeping skin protected during both everyday activities and extended sun exposure.

For Dry Skin:

  • Cleanser: Cleansing Complex
    The same highly effective yet gentle cleanser, Cleansing Complex provides a deep cleanse without causing dryness or irritation. It’s the perfect first step for dry skin, helping to maintain moisture balance while prepping the skin for further treatment.

Youth Intensive Crème

  • Moisturizer: Youth Intensive Cream
    This rich, luxurious cream helps soothe dry skin while improving its firmness and radiance. It delivers intensive hydration and visibly enhances the youthful appearance of the skin, making it a great option for those experiencing dryness and fine lines.

  • Moisturizer: Moisturizing Complex
    An antioxidant-rich, intensively hydrating moisturizer, Moisturizing Complex incorporates powerful botanicals, natural vitamins, and essential bio-nutrients to strengthen the skin’s protective barrier. It helps prevent moisture loss and shields the skin from environmental stressors.

  • Sunscreen: Eclipse SPF 50+
    As with other skin types, Eclipse SPF 50+ provides a lightweight yet effective solution for protecting dry skin from the damaging effects of UV rays. Its quick-absorbing formula ensures that skin remains matte and protected without feeling greasy.

For Post-Procedure Care:

  • Cleanser: Cleansing Complex
    After a procedure, it’s essential to use a cleanser that is both gentle and effective. Cleansing Complex is an ideal choice, providing a soothing cleanse without disturbing the skin’s delicate healing process. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive or post-treatment skin.

Sheald recovery balm iS Clinical Canada | Loshen & Crem

  • Moisturizer: Sheald Recovery Balm
    A deeply hydrating balm, Sheald Recovery Balm is specifically formulated for dry, sensitive skin, making it perfect for post-procedure care. It replenishes hydration and promotes recovery, leaving the skin feeling nourished and protected.
    Alternatively, Reparative Moisture Emulsion also offers excellent post-procedure care, with its potent blend of rejuvenating botanicals and antioxidants designed to keep the skin smooth, healthy, and protected.

  • Sunscreen: Eclipse SPF 50+
    Post-procedure skin requires superior sun protection, and Eclipse SPF 50+ delivers just that. Its sheer, fast-absorbing formula helps shield sensitive skin from harmful UV rays while maintaining a matte finish, ensuring your skin is protected during recovery.

Next stop afa:

For Normal Skin:

  • Cleanser: Gentle Cream Cleanser
    This hydrating, non-stripping formula effectively removes makeup and impurities, leaving the skin deeply cleansed yet soft and moisturized. Its gentle cleansing action ensures that normal skin remains hydrated without feeling tight or dry.

afa: Toner Mist

  • Toner: Toner Mist
    A refreshing mist that instantly hydrates and soothes the skin. This toner supports the skin’s natural renewal process, calming irritation while helping restore the skin’s protective barrier for a smoother, more balanced complexion.

  • Moisturizer: Mattifying Antioxidant Moisturizer
    This lightweight moisturizer works to minimize shine while delivering powerful antioxidant protection. It helps to restore the skin's natural moisture balance, leaving the skin matte and refined, with a smooth and healthy appearance.

For Acne-Prone Skin:

  • Cleanser: Clarifying Gel Cleanser
    Formulated to gently exfoliate and cleanse, this gel-based cleanser is ideal for acne-prone skin. It helps to clear breakouts and minimize the appearance of enlarged pores and blackheads, while maintaining balance and clarity in the skin.

afa Acne Care | afa®

  • Serum: Acne Care
    A powerful yet gentle serum designed to clarify the complexion and reduce breakouts. It helps even out skin tone, diminishes excess oil production, and addresses post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, leaving the skin visibly smoother and more even.

  • Moisturizer: Mattifying Antioxidant Moisturizer
    This targeted moisturizer is formulated to combat excess oil production while fighting free radicals with its potent antioxidant properties. It restores the skin’s natural moisture balance, keeping acne-prone skin hydrated without contributing to shine or congestion.

For Dry/Sensitive Skin:

  • Cleanser: Gentle Cream Cleanser
    A mild yet effective cleanser, Gentle Cream Cleanser gently removes makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. It leaves the skin feeling soft, nourished, and well-hydrated—ideal for dry or sensitive skin that requires extra care.

  • Toner: Toner Mist
    This soothing mist refreshes and hydrates dry or sensitive skin, providing immediate relief. It helps support the skin’s natural renewal process, calming irritation while reinforcing the skin’s barrier function to maintain overall skin health and resilience.

afa: Ultra-Rich Peptide Moisturizer

  • Moisturizer: Ultra Rich Peptide Moisturizer
    Rich in hydrating and reparative peptides, this moisturizer offers long-lasting hydration while working to repair and protect the skin from signs of cellular damage. Its luxurious texture provides deep nourishment, leaving dry and sensitive skin feeling replenished, smooth, and revitalized.

Last stop, Rejudicare

For Normal Skin:

  • Cleanser: PureCleanse
    A gentle, non-foaming cleanser, PureCleanse effectively removes impurities without drying or irritating the skin. Infused with anti-inflammatory agents, it helps create and maintain an ideal skin environment, leaving the skin refreshed, calm, and balanced.

Skintonic - RGR Pharma Ltd.

  • Toner: SkinTonic
    This alcohol-free toner provides superior anti-inflammatory benefits compared to typical toners. It works to soothe and balance the skin while supporting its natural barrier, ensuring a calm and harmonious complexion.

  • Moisturizer: Emolia
    Emolia is a sophisticated moisturizer formulated with a blend of three synergistic moisturizing agents, along with trusted anti-aging actives and anti-inflammatory ingredients. It helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while providing deep hydration, leaving skin looking youthful and revitalized.

For Acne-Prone Skin:

 

RejudiCare Synergy Hexacleanse

  • Cleanser: Hexacleanse
    This lightweight foaming cleanser is specially formulated with antimicrobial Hexamidine to help reduce the presence of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. It cleanses deeply without over-drying, helping to maintain clearer, healthier-looking skin.

  • Toner: SkinTonic
    As with normal skin, SkinTonic provides effective anti-inflammatory benefits to acne-prone skin. This alcohol-free formula helps calm irritation and redness, supporting the skin’s natural healing process and promoting a balanced complexion.

  • Moisturizer: Emolia
    Emolia continues to be an ideal choice for acne-prone skin as well, thanks to its unique combination of moisturizing agents and anti-inflammatory properties. This nourishing formula helps hydrate and repair the skin, while minimizing the visible signs of aging without clogging pores.

For Dry Skin:

  • Cleanser: SkinCleanse
    A gentle, lightweight foaming gel, SkinCleanse is suitable for dry skin or conditions like rosacea. It effectively cleanses without stripping the skin’s natural moisture, leaving the skin soft and hydrated.

RejudiCare Synergy AquaPrime

  • Primer: Aquaprime
    This innovative primer conditions the skin to optimize the absorption of active ingredients. Aquaprime ensures that any subsequent treatments are delivered more effectively, allowing active ingredients to penetrate the skin without irritation or harsh chemicals.

  • Moisturizer: Emolia
    With its unique blend of moisturizing agents, Emolia provides long-lasting hydration, making it an excellent choice for dry skin. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties help to maintain skin integrity, minimizing the visible signs of aging while keeping the skin nourished and smooth.

Navigating the vast skincare market can be overwhelming, but finding the right routine for your skin type doesn't have to be complicated. In this blog, we’ve explored three reputable skincare brands iS Clinical, AFA, and Rejudicare offering tailored solutions for normal, acne-prone, dry, and sensitive skin. Whether you're looking for gentle cleansers, targeted treatments, or powerful moisturizers, these brands provide effective, science-backed products designed to support healthy, balanced skin. From anti-inflammatory benefits to advanced anti-aging actives, each product works synergistically to address your unique skincare needs. With the right routine and consistent care, achieving glowing, healthy skin is within reach. Check out our website for more skincare products: https://theorganiccompoundingpharmacy.com/collections/skincare 

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