Starting a skincare routine can feel overwhelming — there are so many products, ingredients, and steps to consider. But the truth is, a great skincare routine doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, a simple, consistent routine will always outperform an elaborate one you can't stick to. Here's how to build one from scratch.
Step 1: Know Your Skin Type
Before you buy anything, it helps to understand your skin type. The main types are:
- Normal — balanced, not too oily or dry
- Dry — feels tight, may look flaky or dull
- Oily — shiny, prone to enlarged pores and breakouts
- Combination — oily in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), dry on the cheeks
- Sensitive — reacts easily to products, may experience redness or irritation
Your skin type will guide which products and ingredients work best for you.
Step 2: The Core 3 — Cleanse, Moisturise, SPF
Every effective skincare routine is built on three non-negotiables:
1. Cleanser
Cleansing removes dirt, oil, makeup, and pollution from your skin. Use a gentle cleanser morning and night — one that cleans without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier. If your skin feels tight after cleansing, your cleanser is too harsh.
2. Moisturiser
Moisturiser keeps your skin hydrated and supports the skin barrier. Even oily skin needs moisture — skipping it can actually cause your skin to produce more oil to compensate. Apply while skin is still slightly damp for best absorption. Our Calcium Multi Balm Stick is a great on-the-go hydration option for quick touch-ups throughout the day.
3. SPF
Sunscreen is the single most important anti-ageing product you can use. UV damage is the leading cause of dark spots, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning — even on cloudy days and indoors near windows.
Step 3: Add a Toner
Once you've mastered the core 3, a toner is a great next step. Toners help balance your skin's pH after cleansing and deliver active ingredients deeper into the skin. Our Dark Spot and Wrinkle Toner Pads make toning effortless — just swipe and go, with ingredients that target pigmentation and fine lines at the same time.
Step 4: Introduce a Treatment or Serum
Treatments and serums target specific skin concerns like dark spots, dullness, or ageing. These are more concentrated than moisturisers and should be applied after toning but before moisturising. Some great options include:
- For brightening and exfoliation: Our AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution — use 2–3 times per week in the evening
- For body exfoliation and brightening: Our Peel Shot Exfoliating Spray — great for tackling rough patches and uneven tone on the body
Step 5: Weekly Treatments
Once or twice a week, treat your skin to something extra. A hydrating face mask is one of the best ways to give your skin a deep moisture boost and restore your glow. Our Bio-Collagen Face Mask is perfect for this — leave it on for 15–20 minutes and wake up to plumper, more radiant skin.
A Simple Morning & Evening Routine
Morning
- Cleanse
- Tone
- Moisturise
- SPF
Evening
- Cleanse
- Tone
- Treatment/serum (2–3x per week)
- Moisturise
The Golden Rule: Consistency
The best skincare routine is the one you actually do every day. You don't need 10 steps or expensive products — you need consistency. Give any new product at least 4–6 weeks before judging whether it's working, and introduce new products one at a time so you can identify what's helping (or causing issues).
Ready to start your routine? Explore Cartiva's range of skincare products and build a routine that works for your skin, your lifestyle, and your budget.