A closer examination of consumers' skincare routines reveals a significant divide. Some skincare enthusiasts, particularly men, believe that a face wash and perhaps a lotion or cream are sufficient. On the other hand, many seasoned beauty enthusiasts feel that multiple layers of products are necessary before stepping out.

This begs the question: what is the correct approach to skincare? What steps are essential for proper skincare?

Given that everyone has different skin conditions, living and working environments, and skincare philosophies, the necessary steps will vary. In other words, there is no one-size-fits-all skincare routine. However, maintaining a stable condition and preventing premature skin issues require basic skincare. Basic care includes cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.

Makeup removal is an integral part of the cleansing process and serves as the initial step in skincare. Makeup remover effectively eliminates makeup and dirt that cleansing milk alone cannot remove. By keeping the skin clean, makeup removal helps prevent blackheads, pimples, and acne.

Makeup remover complements sunscreen and makeup—sunscreen protects the skin, makeup enhances beauty, and makeup remover restores the skin to its natural state. However, cosmetics merchants often overemphasize the need for makeup removers in order to sell more products.

Some even advise consumers to remove makeup daily, even when no sunscreen or makeup has been applied. This excessive cleaning can result in dry and sensitive skin, transforming healthy skin into sensitive and raw skin.

If you do not use sunscreen or makeup, there is no need to use makeup remover products. Daily use of sunscreen and makeup does not necessarily require makeup removal. Some makeup can be effectively removed with a cleanser, while others may require the use of makeup remover. For difficult-to-remove makeup or specific situations, makeup remover products can be used.

Cleansing is an essential step in skincare and has been ingrained in our daily routines. However, the choice of cleansing products greatly depends on the nature of one's skin.

For those with excessively oily skin, especially during periods of high oil secretion, deep-cleansing products like soap-based cleansers or those containing SLS and SLES are recommended.

To prevent over-cleansing, a mild amino acid cleanser can be used in the morning, followed by a soap-based cleanser in the evening. During colder seasons when oil secretion decreases and soap-based cleansers may be too strong, a combination of mild surfactants such as amino acid surfactants and soap-based cleansers can be used.

For combination skin, an amino acid cleanser with a stronger cleansing power is generally sufficient. If more cleansing power is desired, an amino acid cleanser combined with a soap-based cleanser can be used. Conversely, if the cleansing power is too strong, a milder amino acid cleanser can be chosen.

Normal or dry skin typically benefits from a mild and gentle amino acid cleanser. In cases of extremely dry skin that may be aggravated by amino acid cleansers, alkyl polyglucoside (APG) cleansers or non-foaming cleansers without surfactants are recommended.

Individuals with sensitive, delicate, or allergic skin may temporarily discontinue the use of cleansing products and only wash their faces with water. Alternatively, they can wash their faces with water in the morning and use a cleanser specifically formulated for sensitive skin in the evening. Relying solely on the water for face cleansing is a temporary measure; once the skin stabilizes, the use of cleansing products should resume.

The toning step provides a solid foundation for the absorption of subsequent products and offers some skincare benefits. However, it is important to note that due to cost constraints, toners generally contain small amounts of skincare ingredients and can only play a limited role in regulating the skin. It is challenging for toners alone to significantly improve skin conditions such as wrinkle removal, or acne treatment.

However, toners can be more effective in moisturizing and controlling oil. Overall, toners play a secondary role in the skincare routine. Although the toning step is secondary, it is still necessary. It helps ensure that subsequent products are applied evenly and facilitates their absorption into the skin.

It is important to emphasize that there is no standardized skincare routine, and flexibility is key based on individual skin conditions. Regardless of the specific steps chosen, basic skincare involving cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection is essential. These fundamentals serve as the cornerstone of skincare, ensuring that the skin remains healthy and well-maintained.

By understanding our skin's unique needs and tailoring our skincare routines accordingly, we can achieve optimal results. It is crucial to strike a balance between effective cleansing and maintaining the skin's natural moisture barrier. Furthermore, being mindful of the ingredients in skincare products and their compatibility with our skin types can help us make informed choices.

Skincare routines may vary from person to person, but certain principles remain constant. Basic care, including proper cleansing, adequate moisturizing, and sun protection, should never be overlooked. By prioritizing these steps and adapting them to our individual skin conditions, we can achieve healthy, radiant skin.

Remember, skincare is a personal journey, and finding the right balance for your skin's unique needs is the key to success.