Building a simple skincare routine without overspending

TUREFF• •0

Skincare marketing makes it easy to believe you need ten steps and a shelf full of bottles. Most skin does well with very little. A short routine you actually stick to beats an expensive one you abandon after a fortnight. This guide covers the basics, how to choose products by what is in them rather than the label, and when to get advice from a professional.

The three basics

Cleanse. A gentle cleanser removes sunscreen, make-up, sweat and dirt. Many people only need it in the evening and a splash of water in the morning.
Moisturise. Helps keep the skin barrier comfortable. Lighter lotions or gels tend to suit oily skin, richer creams suit dry skin.
Protect from the sun. This is the step that does the most to prevent sun damage and premature ageing. NHS advice is to use a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 with at least 4-star UVA protection, apply it generously and reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.

That is a complete routine. Everything else is optional.

Working out your skin type

Oily: shiny by midday, larger-looking pores.
Dry: feels tight, may flake.
Combination: oily in the centre of the face, normal or dry elsewhere.
Sensitive: stings, flushes or reacts easily.

Skin can change with the seasons, hormones and age, so adjust as you go rather than committing to one label forever.

Optional extras, one at a time

If you want to target something specific, add one product and give it several weeks before judging it.

Exfoliating acids such as salicylic acid can help with blackheads and oiliness. Start slowly, a couple of times a week.
Retinoids in over-the-counter strengths are widely used for texture and signs of ageing. They can irritate at first, so start a few nights a week and always use sunscreen in the daytime. Check with a pharmacist or doctor before using them if you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding.
Niacinamide is a common ingredient aimed at redness and oiliness and is usually well tolerated.

Avoid introducing several actives at once. If your skin reacts, you will not know which one is to blame.

How to spend less

Read the ingredient list, not the price tag. Products with similar active ingredients at similar strengths often cost very different amounts.
Shop own-brand ranges at supermarkets and chemists, which often contain the same key ingredients.
Skip what you do not need, such as separate eye creams or toners, unless you have a specific reason.
Buy one product at a time and finish it before replacing it.
Beware of influencer hauls and miracle claims. If a product promises to change your skin overnight, be sceptical.
Use samples or travel sizes to test before committing to a full-size bottle.

Patch test new products

Apply a small amount to a discreet area, such as behind the ear or on the inner arm, for a couple of days before using it on your face. Stop using anything that causes burning, swelling or a rash.

Habits that cost nothing

Do not over-wash. Cleansing too often or with harsh products can leave skin dry and irritated.
Use lukewarm, not hot, water.
Change pillowcases regularly and keep phone screens clean.
Avoid picking or squeezing spots, which can lead to scarring.
Remove make-up before bed.

When to see a pharmacist or GP

A pharmacist can recommend treatments for mild acne, dryness or irritation. See a GP if you have:

Acne that is painful, leaving scars or affecting your confidence
Eczema, rosacea or a rash that will not settle
A mole or patch of skin that is new, changing, bleeding or itchy

Prescription treatments are often more effective than anything sold on a shelf, and getting the right one early can save both money and stress. What is the one product in your routine you would never give up? Share it in the comments.