Whether you’re a skincare novice or an expert, here’s a guide on streamlining your skincare to 3 essential steps.
In the whirlwind of trendy 10-step routines and the latest must-have skincare products, it's easy to forget that sometimes, less is more—especially when it comes to skincare. The beauty of simplicity in your skincare regimen isn't just a nod to minimalism; it's about crafting a routine that respects your skin’s natural balance while addressing its core needs.
This approach isn't just for the skincare novice but for anyone looking to declutter their routine and focus on what truly works.
At the heart of any effective routine are three key steps: cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. This trio lays the foundation for healthy, happy skin. You can then add serums or exfoliants based on your skin type or concern.
A gentle cleanser removes impurities without stripping the skin, a quality moisturizer hydrates and repairs the skin barrier, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against the aging and damaging effects of the sun.
Step 1: Cleansing
The first step (and most essential) to any skincare routine is cleansing. Using an effective cleanser helps wash away any dirt, makeup, SPF on the skin- providing a clean slate for your skincare routine. During the morning, we recommend using a gentle milky cleanser that does not strip away your natural oils, especially if you have sensitive skin. If you wear makeup, you’ll want to double cleanse in the evening, starting with an oil-based balm or cleanser first.
Optional: Treat your face
Once you're done with cleansing, you’ll want to add a serum to your routine for targeting a specific skin concern like breakouts, eczema, hyper-pigmentation or fine lines. This step is totally optional and you can skip, if your moisturizer already has these skin concerns covered. Serums are potent liquids with high-ingredient concentration. If your skin is feeling dry, you’ll want to use a Hyaluronic acid serum, and if your skin is feeling dull, a Vitamin C serum can do miracles.
Step 2: Moisturize
Moisturizers are essential to protect your skin barrier from environmental stressors and seal in all the moisture and good ingredients you’ve used on your skin. You’ll want to opt for a light gel moisturizer like the Plenaire Droplet Lightweight Moisture Gel, during the day, so it wears nicely under makeup and doesn’t feel too heavy. And choose a cream for the night so your skin is moisturized and primed to give you a natural glow when you wake up. 
Step 3: Sun protection
One piece of advice the Powder Beauty team always shares is to use SPF every day. It doesn’t matter if you are going out or staying in, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays is an essential part of any skincare routine. Exposure to harmful UV rays from the sun can lead to sun damage, increasing the chances of skin cancer, hyper-pigmentation and premature aging. If you have sensitive skin, we recommend using a mineral sunscreen like the Holifrog Solar Daily Mineral Sunscreen as they tend to be less irritating on the skin than their chemical counterparts. 
Streamlining your skincare routine with these essential steps can be good for your skin and the planet. Taking a step back from lengthy routines, can also allow you to approach skincare in a more holistic manner, bringing in space for mindfulness, nutrition and movement, all of which impact your skin’s wellbeing.
