How extra is your skincare routine?

Do these sentences resonate? 👇

• "I just want clear skin, but there's SO much info out there!"
• "Do I really need all these products, or can I keep it simple?"
• "I want to start taking care of my skin, but I don’t know where to begin."

If you’re nodding along, we got you. Skincare doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but with all the trends and products, it can feel like a lot. The good news? You can build a simple, effective routine that works for you. Let’s break it down.

"Invest in your skin. It’s going to represent you for a long time." — Linden Tyler

What are the skincare basics?

Skincare doesn’t have to be a 10-step process. In fact, keeping it simple can be more effective and less overwhelming. Let’s break down the core essentials for a healthy, glowing complexion.

Whether your goal is clearer skin, hydration, or fighting off the occasional breakout, the basics cover everything you need to maintain a balanced routine.

Where does Gen Z comes in?

Gen Z is rewriting the rules of skincare, and it's not just about selfies anymore. Here's how we're changing the game:

• Informed and empowered: We're digging deep into ingredients and demanding transparency from brands.
  • 76% of Gen Z specifically seek out "clean" beauty products, prioritizing those free from harmful chemicals and unnecessary additives.
• Skinimalism is in: We're embracing a minimalist approach that focuses on quality over quantity.
  • 41% of Gen Z identify skincare as their top beauty category.
• Investing in ourselves: We're not afraid to spend money on skincare that works.
  • Over a third of us spend $21-$50 on a single product!
• Savvy researchers: We're turning to platforms like YouTube and TikTok for product recommendations and education.
• Real skin, real talk: Forget the filters and the flawless facades. Gen Z is all about celebrating real skin and embracing individuality.

Ultimately, we're building skincare routines that are as unique as we are.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Morning routine:

• Cleanser: Start the day by washing off dirt, oil, and dead skin. Cleveland Clinic (2022) recommends using a gentle, non-foaming cleanser to avoid drying out your skin. Look for sulfate-free cleansers, as sulfates can strip your skin of its natural oils.
• Antioxidant serum: These are lightweight liquids packed with ingredients like Vitamin C or Vitamin E that protect your skin from free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage your cells and speed up aging). Serums loaded with antioxidants help brighten your complexion and reduce inflammation. Gen Z loves products like Vitamin C serums to fight off pollutants and sun damage, according to Blithe (2024).Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps reduce dark spots, boosts collagen (which keeps your skin firm), and gives you that glow. It’s like a protective shield against environmental stressors.Vitamin E: Another antioxidant that hydrates and soothes the skin, Vitamin E also helps heal scars and reduces inflammation.
• Sunscreen: Your skincare MVP. Always go for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to prevent sunburn and premature aging. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA rays (which age the skin) and UVB rays (which burn the skin). Physical sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are especially good, as they sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. Gen Z is all about prevention, and SPF is non-negotiable. Kyra & Blended’s 2022 report noted SPF as one of Gen Z’s top products.

That’s it — just three simple steps in the morning! Cleanse, treat, and protect. If you’re feeling fancy, you can add makeup, but it’s not essential.

Evening routine:

At night, your skin needs repair. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Makeup remover: Remove makeup first before cleansing. Cleveland Clinic recommends micellar water or wipes, as regular cleansers don’t remove all makeup. Micellar water is a gentle liquid that contains tiny cleansing oil molecules suspended in water — it’s like a magnet for dirt and makeup.
• Cleanser: Double cleanse to remove leftover dirt and oil. For acne-prone skin, go for cleansers with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.Salicylic acid: A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that’s great for people with acne or blackheads. It works by exfoliating the inside of your pores, keeping them clear and preventing breakouts.Benzoyl peroxide: This ingredient is a strong acne-fighter that kills acne-causing bacteria on the skin. It’s great for inflamed, red pimples but can be drying, so be sure to use a moisturizer afterward.
• Moisturizer: Lock in hydration overnight. A lightweight moisturizer with hyaluronic acid keeps your skin smooth and hydrated. Retinol-based night creams can also help fight signs of aging by promoting cell turnover.Hyaluronic acid: A naturally occurring substance in your skin that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It’s a humectant, which means it draws moisture from the air into your skin, making it feel plump and hydrated.Retinol: A form of Vitamin A that increases cell turnover, meaning it helps shed dead skin and promotes the growth of new skin cells. It’s great for fine lines, wrinkles, and acne, but it can be irritating for sensitive skin.

Do you really need ALL those products?

Nope, you don’t need to go overboard with products. The essentials — cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF — are your foundation. Anything extra like serums or night creams can be added based on your skin’s needs.

Cleveland Clinic also highlights the importance of starting simple and adding one product at a time. It’s not about the number of products, it’s about finding what works best for your skin. Experiment with serums or exfoliants (like glycolic acid) if you want to target specific issues, but always give your skin time to adjust before layering on more.

What about special treatments?

• Exfoliate: 2-3 times a week with chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid. This sloughs off dead skin and brightens your complexion. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells together, making your skin smoother and more radiant. Start slow to avoid irritation!
• Masks: Kyra & Blended noted that many Gen Z consumers use masks for an extra glow. Sheet masks are great for quick hydration, but don’t overdo it — moderation is key!

Keep in mind:

It’s not just about what you put on your skin. Good skincare comes from the inside out. Cleveland Clinic emphasizes that hydration, a balanced diet, and stress management are just as important as any product. Hydrate, eat nutrient-rich foods, and try to get enough sleep — all these contribute to glowing skin!

"You are not born with flawless skin; you earn it through a routine." — Dr. Dennis Gross

Now that you know the basics, let’s dive into YOU and your skin. Ask yourself:

1. What’s your biggest skin concern right now (acne, dryness, oiliness, etc.)?
2. What's your current routine like, and is it consistent?
3. What's your skin type (oily, dry, combination) and what products support it?
4. What role does your lifestyle play in your skincare routine (diet, stress, sleep)?
5. How much do you rely on skincare advice from influencers vs. dermatologists?

"Your skin is the best outfit. Take care of it." — Unknown

Click on the dropdowns below to see the easy action items:

Some vibes to close us out

Your skincare routine is more than just products — it’s an act of self-care.

Whether you’re keeping it simple or diving deep into serums and masks, the key is to find what works for YOU.

Stay patient, stay consistent, and remember:

YOU got this. 💭✨

Sources

1. "The Steps for a Basic, Everyday Skin Care Routine" by Cleveland Clinic (2022).
2. "MZ Skincare: A Deep Dive into Trends and Behaviors" by Blithe (2024).
3. "The 2022 Gen Z State of Beauty Report" by Kyra and Blended (2022).

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