top of page

How to Start a Skincare Routine - Beginner's Guide

  • Writer: Living for Real
    Living for Real
  • May 28
  • 2 min read

Updated: Jul 18

Ideally, start in your early teens (around 12-14 years old) — when puberty kicks in and hormones can start affecting your skin (hello, breakouts!). Remember it’s never too late to start, no matter what your age!


Why Start a Skincare Routine?

  1. Prevention is easier than correction – Starting early helps prevent issues like acne, sun damage, and premature aging.

  2. Healthy habits – It’s easier to maintain good skin if you make skincare part of your routine.

  3. Boosts confidence – Clear, healthy skin can make you feel more comfortable and confident. Essential for the young, but important for all of us throughout our lives!


How to Start – Simple Beginner Skincare Routine

You don’t need a complicated 10-step routine. Start simple and be consistent. Here’s a basic setup:

1. Cleanser (AM & PM)

  • Removes dirt, oil, and makeup.

  • Look for: Gentle, sulfate-free cleanser.

  • If you’re oily/acne-prone: Gel cleanser.

  • If you’re dry/sensitive: Cream or hydrating cleanser.

2. Moisturizer (AM & PM)

  • Keeps skin hydrated and healthy.

  • Look for: Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores).

3. Sunscreen (AM)

  • This is the most important anti-aging step.

  • Use daily, even when it’s cloudy.

  • Look for: SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Optional Step (PM): Treatment

  • If you have acne, hyperpigmentation, or other concerns, this is where you’d use a product like:

    • Salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide (for acne)

    • Niacinamide (for oil control & redness)

    • Retinoids (start later, like in your 20s, for acne or anti-aging)


Okay, lets review:

Keep it Simple:

Morning:

  1. Cleanser

  2. Moisturizer

  3. Sunscreen

Night:

  1. Cleanser

  2. Treatment (If Needed)

  3. Moisturizer


Tips:

  • Patch test - All new products.

  • Be patient – Skin can take weeks to show changes.

  • Don’t overdo it – Simple is sustainable, which is what you want, a routine you can keep consistent.

  • Drink water, sleep, and eat well – Take care of your skin from the inside too.


Different age ranges will require slightly different care. See related posts for suggested all-natural, organic products for the best results and healthiest you!


Note to Readers: thelivingforreal.com is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site we may earn affiliate commission.

Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet

Add a rating

ABOUT US

We are here to find and recommend the best all natural makeup and skincare! We are always looking for deals and reviewing non-toxic, organic products!

  • Instagram

FOLLOW US! GET EMAIL NOTIFICATIONS OF OUR LATEST POSTS AND DEAL ALERTS.

© 2025 by LIVING for real

bottom of page