If you‘ve been trying to curate a skincare routine for yourself but you have absolutely no idea where to start, fret not bestie. Your big sister is about to dump some really important knowledge on how to build a reliable, effective, easy-to-maintain skincare routine that won't overwhelm or scare you.
Let's start!
1. Oil-based cleanser
When it comes to oil-based cleansers, the best kind is the ones that do not leave any film or residue on your skin post-application. The Oil-based cleanser is important as the first step to double-cleansing, in order to remove impurities you've collected on your skin after a full day.
One of the best (and affordable!) oil-cleansing skincare you can get on the market is The Inkey List's Oat Cleansing Balm. This goes off the shelves as quickly as they are restocked so yes, they're that good!
You can purchase it here.
That's not all we'd suggest! If you want to broaden your search, these cleansing balms are equally as good.
2. Water-based cleanser
Now for the second step of double cleansing, a gentle cleanser would suffice. As it bodes well with most skin types, you can never go wrong with it. As long as it doesn't strip your skin of its natural moisture, that's enough indication of a good cleanser. Nothing fancy schmancy.
Innisfree's Hydrating Cleansing Foam With Green Tea is great with any skin type, especially dry skin.
You can purchase it here.
3. Exfoliating Toner
Cleansers can only do so much in terms of eliminating impurities on the surface of your skin. If you want healthy skin at its finest, you must tackle it on a cellular level. By that we mean chemical exfoliation, of course! One caution to be exercised when using an exfoliating toner is to never overuse it. Start by applying it once a week until your skin gains some sort of endurance towards then gradually increase your usage.
We personally love The Ordinary's Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution because it's perfect to use whether you're a beginner or an old-time chemical exfoliator user. Plus, it brings major results!
You can purchase it here. (the link leads you to a verified seller. However, do beware of counterfeit products if you do decide to shop from Shopee. Shop smart!)
4. Moisturiser
As for moisturizers, look for one that is capable of repairing your skin barrier, as that is one of the common problems faced by people in their 20's. You'll know when your skin barrier breaks because you'll be experiencing redness, irritation and/or acne.
Etude House's Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream is approved by Tiktok skinfluencer @benneiley and is excellent at moisturizing without leaving your skin all greasy.
You can purchase it here. (the link leads you to a verified seller. However, do beware of counterfeit products if you do decide to shop from Shopee. Shop smart!)
5. Retinol
Ah, retinol. The elixir of youth. If you're in your 20's your skincare routine is not complete without it. It's a type of vitamin A that will prevent signs of aging so you could look 30's in your 50's.
This one from The Ordinary is great for beginners!
You can purchase it here.
Intrigued to try retinol but too scared of the possible irritation? We've got a few retinol alternatives that perform just as well!
6. Sunscreen
You already know the drill. It's practically a sin to skip sunscreen, periodt.
Biore has been known to produce reliable and high-quality sunscreens, and this one is no exception, especially if you're looking for an affordable option you can comfortably restock without worrying over the leftover balance in your bank account.
You can purchase it here.
If you need more suggestions on affordable sunscreens, here you go!
