Achieving healthy, glowing skin starts with the right skincare routine tailored to your skin type. Whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin, using the right products in the correct order can make a huge difference. In this guide, we’ll break down the best skincare routine for every skin type so you can achieve a radiant complexion.

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Step-by-Step Skincare Routine for All Skin Types

Regardless of your skin type, a good skincare routine follows these basic steps:

1. Cleansing – Removes dirt, oil, and makeup.

2. Toning – Balances skin and preps it for the next steps.

3. Serum – Targets specific skin concerns like acne, hydration, or aging.

4. Moisturizing – Hydrates and protects the skin barrier.

5. Sunscreen (AM Routine) – Shields skin from harmful UV rays.

Now, let’s customize this routine based on different skin types.

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Skincare Routine for Oily Skin

Signs of Oily Skin:

• Shiny or greasy appearance

• Enlarged pores

• Frequent breakouts

Best Routine:

Morning:

1. Gel-based or foaming cleanser – Removes excess oil (look for salicylic acid or tea tree oil).

2. Alcohol-free toner – Balances oil production (try witch hazel or niacinamide).

3. Lightweight serum – Vitamin C or niacinamide for brightening and controlling oil.

4. Oil-free moisturizer – Hydrates without clogging pores (gel-based or mattifying).

5. Broad-spectrum SPF 50 – Prevents sun damage and excess oil production.

Night:

1. Double cleanse – Use micellar water followed by a foaming cleanser.

2. Exfoliate (2-3 times a week) – Use BHA (salicylic acid) to clear clogged pores.

3. Retinol or acne serum – Helps with breakouts and oil control.

4. Light moisturizer – Avoid heavy creams.

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Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

Signs of Dry Skin:

• Flaky or rough texture

• Tight feeling after washing

• Dull complexion

Best Routine:

Morning:

1. Cream or hydrating cleanser – Avoid foaming cleansers that strip moisture.

2. Hydrating toner – Contains hyaluronic acid or glycerin.

3. Hyaluronic acid serum – Attracts moisture to the skin.

4. Rich moisturizer – Look for ceramides and shea butter.

5. SPF 30 or higher – Use a sunscreen with hydrating ingredients.

Night:

1. Oil-based cleanser – Gently removes makeup and dirt.

2. Creamy hydrating cleanser – Adds extra moisture.

3. Exfoliate (1-2 times a week) – Use a gentle AHA (lactic acid) to remove dead skin.

4. Hydrating overnight mask or oil – Seals in moisture while you sleep.

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Skincare Routine for Combination Skin

Signs of Combination Skin:

• Oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin)

• Dry or normal cheeks

• Occasional breakouts

Best Routine:

Morning:

1. Gentle foaming cleanser – Cleanses without stripping skin.

2. Balancing toner – Witch hazel or niacinamide helps control oil without drying.

3. Lightweight serum – Hyaluronic acid for hydration without heaviness.

4. Oil-free moisturizer – Hydrates dry areas without making oily zones greasy.

5. SPF 50 – A lightweight sunscreen that won’t clog pores.

Night:

1. Double cleanse – Use micellar water for makeup, then a gentle cleanser.

2. Exfoliate (2 times a week) – Use BHA for oily areas and AHA for dry patches.

3. Spot treat if needed – Use a clay mask on oily areas only.

4. Light but nourishing moisturizer – Look for aloe vera or squalane.

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Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin

Signs of Sensitive Skin:

• Redness or irritation

• Reacts easily to new products

• Prone to dryness or itching

Best Routine:

Morning:

1. Gentle, fragrance-free cleanser – Look for soothing ingredients like chamomile.

2. Calming toner – Rose water or aloe vera can reduce redness.

3. Hydrating serum – Hyaluronic acid or ceramides for skin barrier support.

4. Fragrance-free moisturizer – Avoid alcohol, dyes, and artificial fragrances.

5. Mineral sunscreen – Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less irritating.

Night:

1. Use micellar water instead of harsh cleansers if skin is extra sensitive.

2. Skip exfoliation if easily irritated – Use PHA (gentler than AHA/BHA).

3. Apply soothing serums – Look for centella asiatica or oat extract.

4. Thick moisturizer or sleeping mask – Seals in hydration overnight.

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Final Tips for All Skin Types

✅ Stay Hydrated – Drinking enough water keeps skin glowing.
✅ Patch Test New Products – Prevents unexpected reactions.
✅ Consistency is Key – Stick to your routine for visible results.
✅ Avoid Over-Exfoliating – Too much can damage your skin barrier.

No matter your skin type, the right skincare routine can help you achieve healthy, balanced skin.