How to Build a Routine

Building a routine can be stressful! Finding which products mix and what suits your skin can be a game of trial and error. Luckily, we have some suggestions to help give a guiding light on your skincare journey. Thanks to our Picky Expert (@theskinsciencegirl) for breaking it all down for us. So let’s get started and build a routine!

Keep it Basic

It’s always best to just start with the basics rather than hoarding too many products in a single routine. So fine tune that simple routine and add ingredients or products depending on your skin’s needs.

Basic routine: Cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen (in the day).

Finding the right cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen depends on your skin. But if you need some help finding the right one for you, check out All About Cleansers, What’s the Right Moisturizer For My Skin Type? and How to Find the Best Sunscreen For Your Skin Type!

Ingredient Analysis

Knowing which ingredients addresses your skin’s concern is helpful for finding the right products. We know ingredients can be confusing, which is why we have a Beginner’s Guide to Skincare with an ingredient guide ready for you.

Skin Concern

Sensitive Skin or Damaged Skin Barrier

If your concern involves skin that’s a bit more sensitive, whether sensitized by external elements or in general, we recommend sticking to the basics. It’s best not to overdo it when your skin is feeling inflamed, damaged or sensitized.

Look for moisturizers with these ingredients: Ceramides, cholesterol, free fatty acids, hyaluronic acid, panthenol and allantoin.

Acne Prone or Textured

Are you worrying about blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores, excess sebum or textured skin? Then try finding products with these key ingredients: Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, niacinamide, azelaic acid, retinoids, sodium ascorbyl phosphate.

Dark Spots or Dullness

Skin feeling a bit dull? Or maybe some dark spots causing you stress? No need to worry, try adding some of these ingredients to your routine and watch it brighten your overall skin tone! Ingredients including: Arbutin, niacinamide, vitamin C and derivatives, azelaic acid, lactic acid and retinoids.

Aging

We all have to face the hands of time, so this concern is a given! We have a bunch of posts about anti-aging ingredients and retinoids (anti-aging heroes). Some other ingredients to try are: Vitamin C and derivatives, peptides, ceramides, AHAs and hyaluronic acid.

Do it All on Picky

Build a routine, ask questions, search for specific ingredients, you can do it all on Picky! Search through our database of over 40,000 skincare products and analyze the INCI list to find the right fit for your skin! We even have Picky Match to help narrow it down for you. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and read even more skincare science content on our blog!