How to Choose Skincare Products: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Photo: Marevgenna

Stepping into the world of skincare can be a bit overwhelming. It’s easy to get lost as so many influencers promote their own lines and countless products that promise miraculous results. Especially if you are not used to terms like “serum” or you don’t understand how cleansers include sulfur or why wrinkle-resistant creams cause dryness.

But don’t worry! This guide is designed for absolute beginners. It will help you begin your journey towards healthier, Even if you have never understood your skin, your complexion will shine naturally. Take one gentle step at a time.

Skincare Product Choice: Where should I start?

Of course, it’s important to create a plan before diving straight into the vast ocean of skincare. The first step in your plan is not to chase trends or miracle ingredients. It must be about building the foundation of self-awareness.

Step #1. Evaluate your current skin condition:

Start by observing skin behavior all day long. Does it feel tight or oily? Are there any areas that are prone to redness or breakouts? This quiet observation, coupled with a bit of research into skin types and their properties, provides the compass you need to navigate the often confused world of skin care. Understanding your skin’s unique needs is an important first step, ensuring that your ultimate product of choice works on your skin rather than against your skin.

Step #2. Consult your dermatologist:

Of course, it’s worth chatting with a dermatologist before dropping a lot of cash into your skincare. They are professionals who can actually convey what your skin really needs. Instead of wasting money by guessing what doesn’t work, they will give you personalized advice. This will surely save you from irritating, redness and wasted money.

Step #3. Address current (and future) skin concerns:

It’s not just about building an effective skincare routine, but dealing with immediate concerns. It is about actively protecting the future health of your skin. Careful selection of products with targeted ingredients helps you tackle existing issues such as dryness and scratches while laying the foundation for long-term resilience.

For example, incorporating antioxidants can combat environmental damage and slow premature aging, but consistent hydration can strengthen skin barriers and prevent future sensitivity. Therefore, it is always best to consider your current skin needs as a starting point, but always look ahead and choose a product that offers lasting protection.

Photo: Cultura Creative

Step #4. Set your budget:

Now it’s time to create a budget. We recommend starting your skincare journey with a more affordable starter-friendly product. You may need to tweak and try different options before you can finally solve the one that’s best for you.

Start by evaluating your current routine and identifying essential and luxurious products. What products are you missing? Which products should I swap or throw away tools? In her video, dermatologist Shellene Idris “Beauty products we don’t need” I share a list of skincare, but I don’t really need it. For example, dedicated hyaluronic acid serums may appear essential, but hyaluronic acid is often found in other products, so you don’t necessarily need to spend extra money. And mechanical scrub? It is generally best to avoid them as they can cause skin damage and sensitivity. and so on!

• Researchers and alternatives:

Now, then, look for cheaper and more effective options for the products you really need. Check out the drugstore brands people actually recommend. Identify the active ingredient that targets a particular concern and search for it in the Dupet ingredient list. Follow your dermatologist’s recommendations regarding the proportion of its active ingredient. This is important.

Decide how much you will spend on skincare each month. Think of it as taking care of yourself. Maybe you can save a little bit of that cash on basics like face washes, moisturizers, sunscreen, and other extras that you sometimes need, such as special serums and masks.

Step #5. Check the ingredient list

So what about their ingredients list? They may seem intimidating, but they are actually rather simple. Essentially, the top one is the most common product. So, if you’re looking for vitamin C toner, for example, check where on the list. If it’s at the bottom, it may not be that much.

Yeah, those long, strange chemical names? It’s worth a quick Google search to see what they’re actually doing. Also, if you know you are sensitive to certain things like scents, be careful about them. Once you get it, reading the ingredient list means you can actually choose the product that works for you and avoid products that can cause problems.

• Consider your lifestyle and ethical views:

Think about where your things came from and what the company is actually doing. Find a brand you won’t test on animals. That’s a big deal for many people. And use better packaging and things to find out which companies care about the planet. If you support workers in a fair treatment, check if they do so too. Essentially, make sure your skincare matches what you believe.

Step #6. Do a patch test

Before enslaving new skincare products on your face and neck, a simple patch test can save you from potential skin disasters. This involves applying a small amount of product to a careful area, such as the inside of the wrist or behind the ear, and waiting 24-48 hours to observe side effects. Look for signs of redness, itching, burning, or other irritation. This seemingly minor step is extremely important as it allows potential allergens or irritants to be identified before they cause widespread discomfort or damage.

Step #7. Create a simple routine

Building the ultimate skincare routine doesn’t require a complex multi-step process from the start. Start with essentials like a very mild cleanser, basic moisturizer, daily sunscreen, and more. This simple foundation allows you to observe how your skin responds and provide a clear baseline for future additions.

Over time, as you become familiar with your skin needs, you can gradually introduce more specific, targeted treatments, one at a time, such as brightening serum and acid stripping. Don’t forget to follow the dermatologist’s recommendations and be consistent. This gives you longer-term results than the rushed, overwhelming G-approach.

The final thought…

Hopefully, with this little guide as your starting point, you are now equipped to make informed decisions about your skincare. Don’t forget in the first place Identify skin typethen gradually introduce new products one by one. Keep your skin reactions with a simple log of your routine. Consistency is the key here! Happy skincare!