Skincare routines often involve multiple steps and are known for their emphasis on thorough cleansing, hydration, and layering of products. Here are the steps you can follow for a basic  skincare routine:

Oil-based cleanser: Start by using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil from your skin. Massage the cleanser onto dry skin and rinse off with lukewarm water.

Water-based cleanser: Follow up with a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining impurities. Gently massage the cleanser onto your damp skin, then rinse thoroughly.

Exfoliation (optional): Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and promotes a brighter complexion. Use a gentle exfoliator, such as a scrub or a chemical exfoliant, 1-2 times a week. Avoid over-exfoliating as it can irritate the skin.

Toner: Apply a hydrating toner to balance your skin’s pH levels and prepare it for better absorption of subsequent products. Pat the toner onto your skin using your hands or a cotton pad.

Serum: Serums are concentrated treatments that target specific skin concerns. Choose one that addresses your needs, such as brightening, anti-aging, or acne-fighting properties. Apply a few drops and gently pat it onto your skin.

Sheet mask (optional): Sheet masks are soaked in a serum-like solution and provide an extra boost of hydration and nourishment. Apply a sheet mask and leave it on for 10-20 minutes, then remove and gently pat any remaining essence into your skin.

Eye cream (Optional): Apply a small amount of eye cream around the delicate skin of your eyes. Gently tap it in with your ring finger, as it applies the least pressure.

Oil Based Moisturizer: Hydrate your skin with a moisturizer suitable for your skin type. Massage it onto your face and neck in upward motions.

Water Based Moisturizer: Hydrate your skin with a moisturizer suitable for your skin type. Massage it onto your face and neck in upward motions.

Sunscreen: In the morning, apply a Minteral based broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin. Reapply throughout the day if needed.

Remember to introduce new products into your routine gradually and patch test them first to check for any potential allergies or irritations. Additionally, feel free to customize your routine based on your specific skin concerns and adapt it to your preferences.

Click here for a printable chart.

My Routine:

I use a combination of Suzy Homemaker Organic Skincare and integrate with BeautyCounter products. (Please note, I am not affiliated with BeautyCounter.) The products I purchase are simple with no frills. My own products have targeted and nutrient rich formulations and provide what I need. My skincare focus is on hydration and anti-aging.

Morning Routine:

1. Water-Based Cleanser by Beauty Counter: I start my routine by cleansing my skin with a water-based cleanser from BeautyCounter. This gentle cleanser effectively removes impurities without stripping my skin of its natural moisture.
2. Sugar Scrub: Once or twice a week gently exfoliate and reveal radiant skin with a blend of organic sugar, nourishing oils, and optional fragrant essential oils. Enjoy the benefits of smoother texture, improved circulation, and a hydrated, glowing complexion. For a simple formulation click here.
3. Suzy Homemaker Hydrating Rose Toner:  Use after cleansing the skin. It removes any impurities left behind after or from cleansing, balancing the skin’s pH level, and it also offers the added benefit of being rich in Vitamin C.  Unlike many toners, this toner does not strip your skin. It restores and hydrates bringing a natural balance. 
4. Suzy Homemaker Organic Borage Serum:  This multi-benefit serum is lightweight and seals in hydration providing a protective barrier. The Borage Oil is incredibly high in GLA, Gamma-linoleic acid. GLA is among nature’s top beauty remedies. It is very effective in treating redness, inflammation and moisture loss associated with dry skin. Another key ingredient in this serum is Wheat Germ Oil. The high content of Vitamin E in wheat germ oil enables this oil to reduce premature aging signs and restore the skin’s youthfulness.
5. Suzy Homemaker Organic Just Shea Moisturizer is made with Pure Unrefined, Grade A, Raw, Organic shea butter extracted from the nuts grown in Ghana. Fast absorbing and perfect for sensitive skin. Unscented and safe for all skin types.
6. Water-Based Moisturizer by Beauty Counter: I finish off my routine with the water-based moisturizer from BeautyCounter. This lightweight moisturizer adds an extra layer of hydration to my skin without feeling heavy or greasy. It helps seal in the previous products and provides long-lasting moisture throughout the day.
7.  Moisturizing Lip Mask: Finally for the lips I use  my Moisturizing Lip Mask. The secret ingredient in my Moisturizing Lip Mask is natural derived Hyaluronic Acid made especially for the lips. Hyaluronic acid(HA) is a type of molecule naturally found in your skin that pulls water from the air and sucks it into my lips like a sponge, helping my lips stay moist throughout the day.

Remember to apply each product by gently massaging it into your skin, allowing it to fully absorb before moving on to the next step. Pay extra attention to areas that need more hydration or have visible signs of aging. Don’t forget your neck and tops of your hands.

Always patch test new products before incorporating them into your routine, and don’t forget to enjoy the self-care aspect of your skincare routine. Taking the time to pamper your skin can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Evening Routine

1. Water-Based Cleanser by BeautyCounter: I start my routine by cleansing your skin with a water-based cleanser from BeautyCounter. This gentle cleanser effectively removes impurities without stripping my skin of its natural moisture.
2. Suzy Homemaker AHA Facial Toner: Use after cleansing the skin. It removes any impurities left behind after or from cleansing, balancing the skin’s pH level, and it also offers the added benefit of shrinking pore size. The lovely toner is made with Rose Hydrosol and smells just like a true rose. Exfoliates the skin using Natural Fruit Acids and AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), Removes dead skin cells, Increases cell turnover, Evens tone and fades discolorations and Leaves skin feeling smooth and soft.
3. Suzy Homemaker Organic Face Serum: This is a multi-benefit serum. It is loaded with ingredients that specifically target fine lines & wrinkles, promote healing and stimulate cell growth. This face serum soaks right in and your face feels so soft and balanced. Formulated with Rosehip Seed Oil (Vitamins A,C, E, B-carotene), Sea Buckthorn Oil (Vitamins A, C, E and lots of Omega’s), Geranium Oil, and Carrot Seed Oil.
4. Suzy Homemaker Organic Just Shea Moisturizer is made with Pure Unrefined, Grade A, Raw, Organic shea butter extracted from the nuts grown in Ghana. Fast absorbing and perfect for sensitive skin. Unscented and safe for all skin types.
5. Water-Based Moisturizer by BeautyCounter: Finish off your routine with the water-based moisturizer from Beauty Counter. This lightweight moisturizer adds an extra layer of hydration to your skin without feeling heavy or greasy. It helps seal in the previous products and provides long-lasting moisture throughout the day.
6.  Moisturizing Lip Mask:  Finally for the lips I use  my Moisturizing Lip Mask. The secret ingredient in my Moisturizing Lip Mask is natural derived Hyaluronic Acid made especially for the lips. Hyaluronic acid(HA) is a type of molecule naturally found in your skin that pulls water from the air and sucks it into my lips like a sponge, helping my lips stay moist throughout the night.