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A basic routine, explained.

Updated: August 23, 2026

Basic routine

Three essentials. One optional treatment.

Clean gently, moisturize for comfort, and protect exposed skin from UV. Add one treatment only when you have a specific concern. This is general information, not an individualized regimen.

THE BASE

Build around needs, not products.

Use the simplest product that comfortably meets each need.

3 + 1 optional
  1. 01Clean gentlyWash in the evening; rinse or cleanse in the morning as neededPurpose 1clean⌄

    Use lukewarm water, fingertips and a gentle non-abrasive cleanser. Do not scrub. The AAD suggests limiting face washing to twice daily and after heavy sweating. [4]

  2. 02Moisturize for comfortUse it when skin feels dry or tightPurpose 2comfort⌄

    Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer, ideally while skin is still slightly damp. A cream or ointment usually adds more moisture than a lotion. [2]

  3. 03Protect exposed skin with SPF 30+Broad spectrum and applied generously before going outsidePurpose 3protect⌄

    Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher before going outside and reapply during exposure as directed. Shade and protective clothing add more protection. [1]

  4. 04Add one treatment only if neededMatch it to one specific concernOptionalone at a time⌄

    Choose one relevant active, follow its label and test a small area first when appropriate. One new product at a time makes tolerability easier to interpret. [3]

Choose the safer branch

The base routine stays simple. The optional step depends on you.

Acne or oily skin

Keep cleansing gentle. Add only one treatment that matches the concern, then judge it on the timeline in the relevant guide instead of layering several new actives.

Open the acne guide

Sensitive skin or eczema

Begin with a fragrance-free moisturizer and a tolerable sunscreen. If skin is actively inflamed, burning, or cracked, adding a cosmetic active may make the result harder to interpret.

Open the sensitive-skin guide

Pregnant or planning pregnancy

Review every optional treatment rather than assuming an over-the-counter product is suitable. The AAD advises avoiding retinoids during pregnancy and discussing treatment choices with an obstetric or dermatology clinician.[5]

Before a new leave-on product

A small-area home-use test may identify an obvious reaction.

[3]

  1. Apply the product to a small test area twice daily.[3]
  2. Continue for 7 to 10 days only when the product label and intended use allow.[3]
  3. Stop if the tested skin becomes red, itchy, or swollen.[3]

This home check is mainly a screen for an obvious contact reaction. It is not diagnostic patch testing, cannot establish why a reaction occurred, and does not override a product label or medicine-specific warning.

References

Selected references for this routine

These public-information pages support the general considerations above. Numbered citations link each health claim to this list. The list is targeted, not a comprehensive evidence review.

  1. SunscreensHealth Canada
  2. Dermatologists’ tips for relieving dry skinAmerican Academy of Dermatology
  3. How to test skin care productsAmerican Academy of Dermatology
  4. Face washing 101American Academy of Dermatology
  5. Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin careAmerican Academy of Dermatology

Condition-specific guidance

Review an optional active in context.

The condition library includes specific cautions, realistic timelines, and reasons to seek professional care.

Browse condition guides