You’ve probably heard about the famous 10-step Korean skincare routine composed of numerous products applied on the face. People who’ve tried and noticed changes report many improvements from clearer complexion to smoother skin. However, memorizing and religiously following a 10-step routine may be too much for some people, especially in the morning when they are in a rush. The good news is that basic skincare involves no more than 5 products. You just have to choose and apply them correctly. If you’re looking for a simple and effective morning face routine, check this out.

4-Step Morning Face Routine

Before we list down the products you need and how to apply them, please note that a skincare routine is not just a trend. Experts say following a routine not only helps protect the skin from damage, but also allows you to look and feel great every day.

Without further delay, here are the products you need for your morning face routine:

Step 1: A Gentle Cleanser

In the morning, wash your face with a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. Use your fingertips to apply the cleanser all over your face. Do not rub as it might irritate the skin. Besides, all you need to remove in the morning are excess oil and leftover nighttime products. Also, use lukewarm water – hot water tends to remove the skin’s natural oils. After rinsing, use a soft, clean towel to pat your face dry.

Choosing a gentle cleanser may be challenging. If you have dry skin, steer clear of those that have alcohol. If you have oily skin, avoid oil-based cleansers.

Step 2: Toner

Traditionally, toners were mostly used by people with oily skin because their high alcohol content (like astringents) could remove sebum effectively. However, the formulations of toners have changed over the years.

These days, toners have ingredients that can soothe dryness and redness while supplying the skin with nutrients that make it soft and smooth. Many toners can also “restore” the nutrients lost during facial cleansing. Some also offer “extra cleansing” in case your cleanser misses some residue.

If you can’t decide on what toner to use or are doubtful that you need one, get in touch with a dermatologist. After all, experts say toners are dispensable – if you don’t need them, then it’s okay to not have them.

Step 3: Moisturizer

Moisturizers, on the other hand, are part and parcel of a morning face routine. People with oily skin sometimes don’t moisturize, but dermatologists insist that regardless of your skin type, a moisturizer is necessary.

If you have oily skin, not moisturizing can make your skin “compensate” by producing more oil, which then increases the possibility of breakouts. If you have dry skin, then a moisturizer helps hydrate your skin.

Step 4: Sunscreen

Finally, a morning face routine wouldn’t be complete with sun protection. Note that you need to apply sunscreen even on cloudy and rainy days.

Sunscreens don’t just lower your risk of skin cancer, they also protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Keep in mind that prolonged sun exposure can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and dark spots.

Experts say you should pick a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30. If you’re physically active and sweating a lot, re-application is necessary every hour or so.

After sunscreen, you’re now ready to put on your makeup!

Final Reminders

Your morning face routine should consist of a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Depending on your needs, you might also require toner. Some moisturizers also double as sunscreen, but be mindful of the SPF content.

In the end, if you want to know more about your skin and the products you should be using, you must consult a dermatologist. Also, whenever trying a new product, do a patch test to see if you’ll have negative reactions.

Learn more about Skin Care and Cleansing here.