Daily Skincare Routine – Normal to Dry Skin

As a lover of all things beauty, I have spent years putting together my perfect everyday skincare routine. Now that I’ve finally got a really good collection of products & tricks, I’d like to pass on my knowledge for anyone out there hoping to achieve dewier, healthier, glowier skin. With the “Glass Skin” look being so popular right now, this routine is perfect! Plus, my routine is simple & most of the products are very affordable. In this post, I’ll give you all the details on my daily skincare routine, which is best for normal to dry skin. If you try any products or tricks from this list, I’d love to hear your opinions in the comments below.

Know Your Skin Type

Understanding your skin type is a fundamental step in crafting an effective skincare routine tailored to your unique needs. There are several distinct skin types:

• Normal: This type is well-balanced, not excessively oily or dry, with minimal sensitivity and few blemishes.
• Dry: Dry skin often feels tight, rough, or flaky due to insufficient oil production. It may be prone to redness and fine lines.
• Oily: Characterized by excess sebum production, oily skin tends to be shiny and is prone to enlarged pores and acne.
• Combination: Combining aspects of multiple types, combination skin exhibits both dry and oily areas. Typically, the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) is oily, while the cheeks are dry.
• Sensitive: Sensitive skin is prone to irritation, redness, and discomfort, reacting adversely to certain ingredients or environmental factors.

Busy Bee Tip: I have “Normal to Dry Skin,” simply meaning, sometimes it’s more normal, sometimes it’s more dry. Your skin can alternate types based on various medications, weather/climate, skincare routines, diet, hormonal changes, and much more.

Identifying your skin type involves observing its characteristics, such as oiliness, dryness, and sensitivity. Pay attention to how your skin feels throughout the day and how it reacts to different products. Knowing your skin type is crucial as it enables you to select products and establish a routine that addresses your specific concerns. A routine tailored to your skin type helps maintain balance, addresses specific issues, and ensures that you’re providing the right care without causing unintended side effects. Whether it’s selecting the right cleanser, moisturizer, or targeted treatments, understanding your skin type forms the foundation for achieving a healthy and radiant complexion.

Busy Bee Tip: While this skincare routine is directed more towards normal to dry skin, those with other skin types still might find certain products or tricks helpful!

Troubleshooting Skincare Issues

Maintaining healthy skin can sometimes be a delicate balancing act, and encountering skincare issues is not uncommon. Understanding these challenges and having effective troubleshooting strategies in place can make a significant difference. Here are common skincare issues and how to address them:

1. Acne Breakouts:
   • Troubleshoot: Ensure your cleansing routine effectively removes dirt and oil without over-drying. Use non-comedogenic products. Consider incorporating salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for targeted treatment.
   • Seek Professional Help: Persistent or severe acne may require consultation with a dermatologist for personalized treatment plans.
2. Dry or Flaky Skin:
   • Troubleshoot: Increase hydration by using a moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Avoid hot showers and harsh cleansers, which can strip the skin of natural oils.
   • Seek Professional Help: If dryness persists, a dermatologist can identify underlying causes and recommend tailored interventions.
3. Hyperpigmentation:
   • Troubleshoot: Use brightening serums with ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide. Apply sunscreen diligently to prevent further pigmentation.
   • Seek Professional Help: Dermatologists can offer advanced treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy for stubborn hyperpigmentation.
4. Oily Skin and Enlarged Pores:
   • Troubleshoot: Choose oil-free and non-comedogenic products. Use salicylic acid to control excess oil. Regular exfoliation can help minimize the appearance of enlarged pores.
   • Seek Professional Help: Dermatologists can recommend prescription-strength topicals or procedures like laser therapy for pore reduction.
5. Fine Lines and Wrinkles:
   • Troubleshoot: Incorporate anti-aging serums with retinol or peptides. Hydrate well and use sunscreen daily to prevent further damage.
   • Seek Professional Help: Dermatologists can provide treatments like prescription retinoids, dermal fillers, or laser therapy for advanced anti-aging concerns.
6. Redness and Sensitivity:
   • Troubleshoot: Use gentle, fragrance-free products. Incorporate calming ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera. Avoid hot water and harsh exfoliants.
   • Seek Professional Help: Dermatologists can diagnose and treat underlying conditions causing redness, such as rosacea.

The Perfect Mix of Skin Care

To achieve a good balance in your skin, to protect your skin from pollution, sun damage, etc, and to keep your skin healthy, you’ll need a well-rounded mix of various products in your routine. Similar to baking a cake, where you need different ingredients for different reasons, you’ll want different products in your skincare routine for different reasons too. Here’s a list of the main “ingredients” in a good skin care routine (continue reading for more details on each):

• Cleanser
• Exfoliants
• Serums / Treatments
• Sun Protection
• Moisturizer

Cleanser

Cleansing is a cornerstone of any effective skincare routine, and the choice of cleanser plays a pivotal role in maintaining skin health. The importance of using a gentle and suitable cleanser cannot be overstated. Harsh cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Opt for a cleanser that matches your skin type, ensuring a delicate yet effective removal of impurities without compromising the skin’s natural barrier.

• How Often to Cleanse: striking a balance is crucial—over-cleansing can lead to excessive dryness, while insufficient cleansing can contribute to clogged pores and breakouts. Finding the right frequency depends on your skin type and lifestyle.
  • Busy Bee Tip: For drier skin types, try cleansing just once a day to avoid removing necessary oils. Personally, I only cleanse at night before bed to remove dirt & makeup from the day.
• Types of Cleansers:
  • Gel Cleansers:
    • Help control excess oil without over-drying the skin.
    • Refreshing and lightweight feel.
    • Good option: Neutrogena
  • Cream Cleansers:
    • Moisturizing ingredients to prevent dryness.
    • Leaves the skin feeling nourished and hydrated.
    • Good option: Paula’s Choice
  • Foaming Cleansers:
    • Can be effective in controlling shine.
    • Good option: Aveeno (This is one I’ve loved for awhile!)
  • Micellar Water:
    • No-rinse formula, making it convenient for quick cleansing.
    • Good options: Bioderma or Sephora.
  • Cleansing Balms:
    • Melts into an oil upon contact with the skin.
    • Efficient in breaking down makeup and impurities.
    • Busy Bee Tip: I use a cleansing balm & a 2nd cleanser for a method called, “Double Cleansing.” This helps me remove any makeup.
    • Good options: SoapNGlory or CeraVe (I switch between these frequently & love both).
  • Hydrating Cleansers:
    • Formulated with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid.
    • Gently cleanses without stripping the skin of moisture.
    • Good options: La Roche-Posay, Paula’s Choice, CeraVe Bar (my personal fav), or CeraVe (liquid version).

Exfoliation

The primary purpose of exfoliation is to remove dead skin cells that accumulate on the skin’s surface, promoting a smoother, brighter complexion. By sloughing off these dead cells, exfoliation helps to unclog pores, prevent breakouts, and stimulate cell turnover, contributing to a more youthful appearance.

Types of Exfoliants

• Physical (Mechanical) Exfoliants:
  • Particle-Based Scrubs: These contain small granules or particles that manually scrub away dead skin cells when massaged onto the skin.
  • Brushes or Cleansing Tools: Devices like facial brushes or cleansing tools with bristles provide a physical exfoliation by manually buffing away dead skin cells.
  • Microdermabrasion: In professional settings, microdermabrasion involves using a machine to spray tiny crystals onto the skin’s surface, exfoliating the outer layer.
• Chemical Exfoliants:
  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Examples include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid. AHAs are water-soluble and help exfoliate the skin’s surface, promoting smoother and brighter skin.
  • Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Salicylic acid is a common BHA. BHAs are oil-soluble and can penetrate deeper into the pores, making them effective for addressing acne and preventing clogged pores.
  • Enzymes: Natural enzymes like papain (from papaya) or bromelain (from pineapple) break down dead skin cells. Enzyme exfoliants are often gentler than acids and suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A): These are derivatives of vitamin A and work by promoting cell turnover. Retinoids are effective not only for exfoliation but also for addressing fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Chemical Peels: Offered in professional settings, chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin, causing controlled exfoliation. Various acids, such as glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA), may be used.

• Busy Bee Tip: Chemical exfoliants are typically a better choice than physical exfoliants. They are less likely to damage your skin & leave your skin visibly brighter & smoother with consistent use.

Choosing AHA vs BHA

• Choose AHA to improve:
  • Skin texture – AHAs will help to smooth skin texture overtime.
  • Skin dullness – AHAs will brighten your skin up & give a more dewy appearance.
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Melasma or scarring
  • Fine lines & wrinkles
  • Uneven skin tone
• Choose BHA for:
  • Acne / clogged pores
  • Sun Damage

How Often to Exfoliate

The frequency of exfoliation depends on your skin’s needs and the product you’re using. Generally, 1-3 times a week is a good starting point. However, it’s crucial to listen to your skin— if you notice any signs of irritation or redness, reduce the frequency. Over-exfoliating can compromise the skin’s protective barrier, leading to increased sensitivity, dryness, and even breakouts.

Caution is paramount when it comes to exfoliation. More is not always better. Excessive exfoliation can strip away healthy skin cells, leaving your skin vulnerable and prone to damage. Always follow product instructions, and if you’re uncertain, consult with a dermatologist. It’s essential to strike a balance to reap the benefits of exfoliation without causing harm.

Busy Bee Tip: I use a Lactic Acid (AHA) exfoliant 1-2 times per week. I also incorporate a Retinol serum once per week. Start with just one type of exfoliant and begin using it once per week. As you begin to build up your skin’s tolerance, you can begin to use more frequently.

Exfoliant Recommendations:

• Elf (peeling solution)
• Paula’s Choice BHA
• The Ordinary Lactic Acid (I use this 1-2 times every week)
• The Ordinary AHA BHA (use sparingly at first, no more than once/week as you build your skin’s tolerance)
• See my skincare routine later in the post for more info on what I use!

Sun Protection (SPF):

The number one cause of aging is actually due to sun damage. Sunscreen is not just a shield against sunburns; it also guards against premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and the risk of skin cancer. Committing to daily sunscreen application is a proactive measure that supports overall skin health and helps maintain a youthful and even complexion.

Types of SPFs

• Chemical:
  • Contain organic compounds that absorb UV radiation, converting it into heat.
  • Often preferred for their lightweight feel and transparent finish on the skin.
• Physical:
  • Contain minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that create a physical barrier, reflecting UV rays away from the skin.
  • Can be less irritating, making them suitable for those with sensitive skin
• Chemical Vs Physical?
  • Chemical SPFs are typically more water & sweat resistent since they sink into the skin rather than acting as a barrier on top of the skin
  • Chemical SPFs typically work better under makeup as they’re more lightweight & don’t cause “whitecast’ (the white tint common with mineral sunscreens)
  • Chemical SPFs are also better for oily skin types because of their lightweight texture
  • Physical SPFs are better for those with sensitive skin or chronic skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, etc because they sit on top of the skin, rather than melting into the skin.

How Much SPF to Use

The amount of sunscreen you need to apply depends on various factors, including your body size, the specific sunscreen formulation, and the intended level of sun protection. However, a general guideline is to use the “two-finger rule.” The two-finger rule is a technique for applying SPF that entails dispensing two lines of sunscreen from the base of the index and middle fingers onto the face and neck. This method is grounded in the concept that the body’s surface area can be divided into 11 regions, each approximating around 9% of the total area.

SPF Recommendations

Here’s a few I’ved tried & enjoyed using. See my full skincare routine later in the post for more info on what I use everyday.

• Bliss Block Star – chemical SPF, blurring on the skin, feels similar to a silicone primer. My all-time favorite so far.
• Biore UV SPF – chemical SPF, gel consistency, very lightweight
• Supergoop SPFs – This brand makes a few different options that work well! The Supergoop Glow Screen adds a beautiful luminosity to the skin, the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen is a great, middle of the road option, and the Supergood Matte Screen is a PERFECT option for sensitive skin. The Matte Screen is a mineral sunscreen & the other two are chemical sunscreens.
• Australian Gold SPF – I love this SPF for the summers when I don’t want to wear any makeup. This SPF is tinted so it helps even out your skintone. This is a mineral SPF, but since it’s tinted, you don’t deal with whitecast.
• E.L.F. Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF – This is another great option that adds luminosity and dewiness to the skin. This is verrrrry similar to Supergoop’s Glow Screen for a bit less money.
• Paula’s Choice SPFs – Paula’s Choice is a wonderful skincare brand and they make several SPF options. The two I’ve liked the most are the Extra Care Non-Greasy SPF & the RESIST Skin Restore SPF. The Extra Care Non-Greasy is typically what I bring on vacations with me, especially trips where I’ll be sweating or swimming. The RESIST SPF is very moisturizing and lovely for very dry skin.

Serums & Treatments

Serums and targeted treatments are potent allies in addressing specific skincare concerns, offering concentrated formulations designed to tackle issues such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging. These specialized products go beyond the basic steps of cleansing and moisturizing, providing targeted solutions for individuals looking to address specific skin challenges.

Types of Serums & Treatments

Serums and treatments come in various formulations, each designed to address specific skincare concerns. Here are a few different types of serums and treatments along with their key ingredients and benefits:

1. Anti-Aging Serums:
   • Key Ingredients: Retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid.
   • Benefits: Reduces fine lines and wrinkles, stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture and elasticity.
   • Good options I’ve tried & liked:
     • The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid
     • CeraVe Retinol
     • Paula’s Choice Retinol
     • Paula’s Choice Multipeptide Booster
     • The Ordinary Retinol
     • The Ordinary Peptide “Buffet” Serum
     • Inkey List Peptide Serum
2. Brightening Serums:
   • Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, niacinamide, alpha arbutin.
   • Benefits: Evens out skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots, promotes a radiant complexion.
   • Good option I’ve tried & liked: Goodal Vitamin C Serum <– my all time favorite
3. Hydrating Serums:
   • Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin.
   • Benefits: Provides intense hydration, plumps and moisturizes the skin, reduces the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration.
   • Good options I’ve tried & liked:
     • The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid
     • Neutrogena Hydro Boost Serum
4. Acne-Fighting Serums:
   • Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide.
   • Benefits: Controls excess oil, unclogs pores, reduces acne breakouts, soothes inflammation.
   • Good options I’ve tried & liked:
     • Paula’s Choice Extra Strength Clearing Treatment (Benzoyl Peroxide)
     • The Ordinary Salicyclic Acid
     • Cetaphil Triple Action Acne Serum
5. Antioxidant Serums:
   • Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, green tea extract, resveratrol.
   • Benefits: Protects the skin from environmental damage, neutralizes free radicals, supports overall skin health.
6. Pigmentation and Dark Spot Treatments:
   • Key Ingredients: Alpha arbutin, kojic acid, licorice extract.
   • Benefits: Targets and fades hyperpigmentation, brightens dark spots, evens out skin tone.
7. Serums for Sensitive Skin:
   • Key Ingredients: Calendula extract, chamomile, aloe vera.
   • Benefits: Gently nourishes and soothes sensitive skin, reduces redness and discomfort.

When incorporating serums and treatments into your skincare routine, consider your specific skin concerns and goals. It’s important to patch-test new products and introduce them gradually to monitor how your skin responds.

Moisturizer

Understanding the paramount importance of moisturizing is fundamental for promoting healthy and radiant skin across all types. Regardless of whether your skin is oily, dry, combination, or normal, a well-chosen moisturizer plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal hydration levels and fortifying the skin’s protective barrier.

Why You Should Moisturize Every Day:

Moisturizing is not exclusive to dry skin; it benefits all skin types. Even oily skin can benefit from lightweight, oil-free moisturizers. Moisturizing helps balance oil production, preventing excessive dryness or oiliness.

• Moisturizers work by sealing in existing moisture and preventing water loss, creating a protective barrier on the skin’s surface.
• Well-hydrated skin barrier is more resilient against environmental stressors, pollutants, and the signs of aging.

Recommendation Based on Skin Types:

• For Dry Skin: Stick with richer, cream-based moisturizers with ingredients like shea butter or hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and replenish dry skin.
  • Good Options:
    • Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
    • Neutrogena Hydro Boost
    • CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
    • First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
• For Oily Skin: You’ll want oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers that provide hydration without clogging pores.
• For Combination Skin: Find moisturizers that address both dry and oily areas, such as a gel-based or water-based formula.
• For Normal Skin: Encourage a balanced moisturizer to maintain the skin’s natural equilibrium.

Want to watch my full skincare routine? Click below for my video about my favorite products!

My Skincare Routine

Okay, let me break it down and give you a full list of what I use, how I use it, how often to apply it, etc. Feel free to screenshot or download this post to use for your own skincare routine! I’ll break my routine up into AM & PM to make things more clear.

Busy Bee Tip: As you’ll see in my routine below, I only wash my face at night before bed. This might throw some people off, but I do not wash my face in the morning before applying makeup. I have dry skin & washing twice would dry my skin out, so I prefer to wash at night to remove makeup, daily pollutants, etc.

AM Skincare

• Step One: Noxema Anti Blemish Pads – I use these to even out my skin, to remove skincare from the night before, and to have a smooth, fresh base for makeup. These are kind of my secret weapon & I have noticed a HUGE improvement in my skin texture and brightness since using them. Busy Bee Tip: These are great at clearing acne/breakouts as well.
• Step Two: Hyaluronic Acid Serum & Vitamin C Serum. Hyaluronic Acid is great for increasing the moisture barrier in your skin. Vitamin C gives your skin an overall dewy, bright look. Vitamin C also reduces dark spots & hyperpigmentation overtime (with consistent use). I mix a drop of each of these in and apply them to my face together.
• Step Three: SPF. I use either the Bliss Block Star SPF, which is very blurring and feels similar to a silicone primer, or the Biore UV SPF, which is a gel consistency. Both are great options. I typically prefer the Bliss Block Star for its blurring property, but enjoy both.
• Step Four: Moisturizer. Typically I use the Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream. It’s a very easy moisturizer that doesn’t pill under makeup or make my skin feel heavy. For a no-makeup day or a day where I want even glowier skin, I use the Loreal LumiGlotion. It adds a beautiful radiance to the skin that’s perfect for under makeup or just on its own.

PM Skincare

• Step One: Double Cleansing. To remove my makeup, I use the CeraVe Makeup Cleansing Balm. I then wash my face with the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Wash Bar. Both are these products are creamy and PERFECT for drier skin. The CeraVe Hydrating Face Wash in liquid form is great as well, but I prefer the bar as it’s easier to travel with.
• Step Two: I use another Noxema Anti Blemish Pad. I use this in place of toner to remove any residual makeup, soap residue, etc.
• Step Three: This is where I incorporate a peel/exfoliant. For peels, I switch between The Ordinary Lactic Acid or The Ordinary Retinol .5%.
  • Busy Bee Tip: When you’re new to peels/chemical exfoliants, stick to 1-2 uses per week. As you build a tolerance to them, you can add in more uses.
  • Busy Bee Tip: Don’t use multiple peels or exfoliants on the same night. I typically prefer to give my skin a night off in between using peels as well.
• Step Four: Serums. I combine The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid & The Ordinary Matrixyl. Both are targeted towards moisture, fine lines, and anti-aging.
• Step Five: Nightcream & Oil. For night cream I LOVE the Burts Bees Firming Face Cream. I can definitely tell a difference when I try out a different nightcream out instead, so I always end up coming back to the Burts Bees. It contains Bakuchiol, which is a natural retinol alternative. It’s extremely smoothing and with consistent use, I do notice an improvement in my skin texture. For oil, I use The Ordinary Plant Derived Squalene to lock in all the moisture.
• Step Six: Lip mask. I love the Lawless Overnight Lip Mask. It’s plumping and the tingly aspect feels smoothing on the lips.

Heathly Lifestyle Habits for Skin’s Well-being

In the pursuit of radiant, healthy, and resilient skin, acknowledging the impact of lifestyle factors is very important. Key elements such as diet, hydration, and sleep play pivotal roles in nurturing skin health.

1. Diet and Skin Health:
   • The correlation between a nutrient-rich diet and glowing skin is huge. A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids contributes to skin elasticity, clarity, and overall vitality.
   • Add in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids found in foods like salmon and flaxseeds.
2. Hydration and Skin Radiance:
   • There is a direct link between hydration and skin hydration. Drinking an adequate amount of water supports the body’s natural functions, aiding in the elimination of toxins and maintaining skin suppleness.
   • Incorporate hydrating foods and herbal teas into their routine for an additional boost.
3. Quality Sleep for Skin Repair:
   • During sleep, the body undergoes essential processes, including the production of collagen, crucial for maintaining skin elasticity.
   • Aim for a consistent sleep schedule & optimal sleep environment.
4. Physical Activity and Circulation:
   • There are HUGE benefits of regular exercise in promoting healthy circulation, which, in turn, supports efficient nutrient delivery to the skin cells.