Skin Care 101: The Only 3 Steps You Need to Start (●'◡'●)

Written By Alyssa Edwards

If you’re new to skincare, let me be the first to say that you don’t need a 20-step routine to have great skin. I know social media can be tempting when it comes to the clean skin aesthetic, but let’s be real. Your skin doesn’t need millions of products right now. It needs consistency and care. That’s why the best way to start your skincare journey is with a simple 3-step routine.

Cleanse: Bye to Dirt, Hello to Glow

Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine. Think of it like brushing your teeth. You wouldn’t skip that…right? At least I hope not. A good cleanser removes dirt, sweat, oil, and sunscreen so your pores don’t get clogged.

What to look for:

  • Gentle

  • Fragrance-free

  • For sensitive skin

  • Won’t dry your skin out

Beginner-Friendly Cleansers:

  • CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

  • La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser

  • Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (my personal favorite)

  • Vanity Planet Foaming Rose Cleanser

🌟Tip -

Wash your face for 60 seconds. Morning and night. Use lukewarm water, not hot, so your skin doesn’t dry out. This helps with opening the pores in order for dirt to leave the skin. Use cooler water to seal the pores after face is fully washed. Voila!

Moisturize: Keep Your Skin Glowing

No matter your skin type. Whether it’s oily, dry, or in-between, you need a moisturizer. Moisturizing keeps your skin barrier healthy so it feels smooth, calm, and protected. Think of your moisturizer as your skin’s daily shield.

What to look for:

  • Lightweight

  • Non-greasy

  • Hydrating

  • Safe for sensitive skin

Great Moisturizers for Beginners:

  • CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

  • Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

  • Anua Heartleaf 70% Moisturizing Lotion (my personal favorite)

  • Cetaphil Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Lotion

🌟Tip -

Oily skin? Still moisturize! Choose a gel moisturizer instead of a cream. Gel moisturizers are very light-weight and provides a hydro boost to your skin to keep your skin healthy rather than producing oils. Voila!

Step 3: Sunscreen: Your Skin’s BFF

Let’s be real. The sun is not your skin’s friend. Yes, sunlight feels amazing and Vitamin D is great, but UV rays cause dark spots, wrinkles, sunburn, and even skin cancer over time. Sunscreen protects your skin now and your future glow later.

What to look for:

  • SPF 30 or higher

  • Broad spectrum (UVA + UVB protection)

  • Non-greasy

Teen-Friendly Sunscreens:

  • Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

  • Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 (my personal favorite)

  • Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55

  • CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

🌟Tip -

Apply sunscreen every morning, on cloudy days, or in a room full of windows. Trust me, the sun finds any possible way to get you. If you’re outside for long, reapply every 2 hours. Voila!

Final Thoughts:

Starting skincare doesn’t have to be confusing. When you keep it simple and consistent, your skin will thank you. These three steps (cleanse, moisturize, and sunscreen) are all you need to build a strong foundation. Once you stick to this routine for a couple of weeks, you’ll start to notice a difference in your skin. Consistency = results.

Feel free to share some of your skincare journeys in the comment section, so we can discover, learn and grow together. Remember, Love the Skin You’re In.

Until next time,

Alyssa Edwards

Alyssa Edwards
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