Let’s face it—skincare can be overwhelming.
I remember standing in a beauty aisle a few years ago, staring at rows of serums, moisturizers, toners, and cleansers with fancy names I couldn’t pronounce. My skin was dry and oily, sometimes both on the same day (if that’s even fair?), and I had no clue where to start. After a few years of trial, error, and one regrettable experiment with an overzealous exfoliant, I finally figured out what my skin needed.
If you’re tired of guessing what works for you, you’re not alone. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all routine. But once you know your skin type—and what it’s trying to tell you—you can build a simple, effective routine that actually works. And since it’s 2025, let’s talk about how skincare has evolved and what really matters this year.
First Things First: What’s Your Skin Type?
Before you reach for that trending serum on TikTok, take a moment to really understand your skin. Here’s a quick breakdown (and yes, you might fall somewhere in between):
Oily – Shiny T-zone, prone to acne, visible pores
Dry – Flaky patches, tightness, dull appearance
Combination – Oily in some areas (usually T-zone), dry or normal in others
Sensitive – Easily irritated, redness, reactions to many products
Normal – Balanced, not too oily or dry (if this is you, I’m jealous)
Knowing your skin type is the foundation—without it, your routine is just guesswork.
2025 Skincare Philosophy: Less Hype, More Intention
Gone are the days of 12-step routines and buying every new product that promises “glass skin.” This year, it’s all about smart, intentional skincare.
People are finally embracing:
Minimalist routines (hallelujah!)
Ingredient transparency
Barrier-friendly products
And yes—skin cycling is still a thing
So, instead of overwhelming you with a list of 20 products, let’s build a manageable routine that fits your skin.
Skincare Routine for Oily Skin
I’ve struggled with oily skin in my early 20s—nothing like midday grease on your forehead to kill your confidence, right? But what I learned is that oily skin isn’t the enemy. It just needs balance.
AM Routine
Cleanser: Use a gentle gel cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree (no harsh scrubs, please)
Toner (optional): A balancing toner with witch hazel or niacinamide can help control oil
Serum: Lightweight niacinamide or zinc serum for oil regulation
Moisturizer: Oil-free, non-comedogenic gel moisturizer
Sunscreen: Matte finish SPF 50
PM Routine
Cleanser: Double cleanse if you wear makeup or sunscreen
Exfoliate: 2–3 times a week with a BHA
Serum: Retinol or azelaic acid for acne-prone skin
Moisturizer: A calming, gel-based night cream
Pro Tip: Don’t skip moisturizer! Dehydrated oily skin just produces more oil to compensate. Learned that one the hard way.
Skincare Routine for Dry Skin
Dry skin can feel like you’re wearing a size-too-small face all day. It needs nourishment, hydration, and TLC.
AM Routine
Cleanser: Cream or oil cleanser—something nourishing and non-stripping
Hydrating Mist: Optional, but makes you feel like royalty
Serum: Hyaluronic acid + ceramides combo is a dry skin dream
Moisturizer: Rich, emollient cream that actually locks in moisture
Sunscreen: Look for moisturizing SPF formulas with added glycerin
PM Routine
Cleanser: Use a gentle oil cleanser or micellar water
Exfoliate: Only once a week with lactic acid (no scrubs!)
Serum: Squalane or peptides to replenish the barrier
Night Cream or Balm: Layer it on—it’s like a blanket for your face
Personal tip: I once switched to a water-based gel cream in winter because it “felt lighter”—my face rebelled in flakes within days. Go rich and hydrating when your skin needs it.
Skincare Routine for Combination Skin
Welcome to the club of the perpetually confused. One cheek is dry, your nose is slick, and no product ever seems to work everywhere.
AM Routine
Cleanser: Gentle, balanced cleanser (micellar foam is great)
Toner: Pore-tightening but non-drying (hello, niacinamide again)
Serum: Use a balancing serum, or spot-treat oily areas
Moisturizer: Use a lightweight lotion or layer richer creams on drier zones
Sunscreen: Gel-based SPF usually works across all zones
PM Routine
Double Cleanse: Remove makeup/sunscreen + cleanse gently
Exfoliate: Alternate AHA/BHA once or twice a week
Serum: Retinol (start low!)
Moisturizer: Customize—use gel in the T-zone, creamier formulas on cheeks
Real talk: Combo skin is a balancing act. Some nights, I use two different moisturizers. High maintenance? Maybe. Worth it? Always.
Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin feels like it’s holding a grudge—one wrong product and it’s red, blotchy, or stinging. Patience and gentle products are your best friends.
AM Routine
Cleanser: Fragrance-free, non-foaming cleanser
Serum: Calming ingredients like centella asiatica or allantoin
Moisturizer: Barrier-repair creams with ceramides or colloidal oatmeal
Sunscreen: Mineral-based, fragrance-free SPF
PM Routine
Cleanser: Keep it consistent and gentle
Serum: Optional—look for calming ones (avoid actives for now)
Moisturizer: Heavy-duty but non-irritating cream
Extras: Keep a soothing mask on standby for flare-ups
Important: Always patch-test. I once tried a hyped-up “clean” serum that left my skin tomato-red for two days. Lesson learned.
A Few Things Everyone Should Remember in 2025
Sunscreen is non-negotiable, even indoors or in winter.
Less is more. If your routine takes longer than your morning coffee, simplify.
Your skin will change with age, hormones, and seasons—be flexible.
Stop comparing your skin to filtered Instagram posts. Please.
And drink water, yes—but also eat your fats and get sleep. Skin isn’t just what you put on it.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one thing a decade in writing and skin-obsessing has taught me, it’s this: Your best skincare routine isn’t about what’s trending. It’s about what your skin is asking for.
Trust the process. Don’t be afraid to try (or ditch) products. And remember that skin perfection isn’t the goal—skin health is.
Take your time, be kind to your face, and enjoy the little rituals that come with taking care of yourself. Because in the end, it’s not just about skincare—it’s about self-care.
Want help figuring out your skin type or building a personalized routine? Just ask—I’d love to nerd out over skincare with you.
Let me know if you’d like a custom skincare checklist, product suggestions based on budget, or even a routine builder quiz!
