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September 27, 2026

Building a simple skincare routine that actually works

Skincare can feel overwhelming, with endless products promising dramatic results. The reassuring truth is that healthy skin rarely needs a complicated routine. A few well-chosen steps, done consistently, will do more than a crowded bathroom shelf ever could.

Start with the three basics

Almost everyone benefits from the same simple foundation, morning and night where relevant.

  1. Cleanse. Use a gentle, soap-free cleanser to remove dirt, oil and sunscreen without stripping the skin. Twice a day is plenty.
  2. Moisturise. A basic moisturiser supports the skin barrier and keeps it comfortable. Apply while the skin is still slightly damp.
  3. Protect. Sunscreen every morning is the single most effective anti-ageing and skin-health step you can take, especially in Australia.

If you do nothing else, do these three well.

Adding active ingredients

Once the basics are habit, you can introduce a treatment ingredient if you have a specific goal, such as a retinoid for ageing or texture, or vitamin C for brightness. The key is to add one thing at a time, start slowly, and give your skin a few weeks to adjust.

More is not better. Layering too many active products at once is the fastest way to irritate your skin and undo your progress.

A few habits that help

Patch test new products on a small area first, do not over-exfoliate, and give any new routine time before judging it. If your skin is persistently dry, oily, breaking out or reacting, a dermatologist can tailor a routine to your skin type rather than leaving you guessing.

Simple and consistent beats complicated and sporadic every time. If you would like a routine built around your skin, our team is happy to help.

About the author
Dermatologist - Founder, Skindepth
Dr Alice Rudd is a Melbourne dermatologist specialising in medical, cosmetic, paediatric & vulval care. Founder of Skin Depth Dermatology.
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