A morning skin care routine is as easy as 1-2-3 (products).

1. Cleanser 

2. Moisturizer 

3. Sunscreen

Cleanser 

Dr. Colombo states that it’s essential to wash your face thoroughly with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser before applying any other products. This allows you to start with a clean slate and prevents other products from washing off. Finding the best cleanser for you can be tricky, but starting off with something that is designed for your skin type is the first step. 

For example, people with oily or acne-prone skin often do best with a foaming cleanser, whereas people with normal or dry skin typically prefer gentle, nonfoaming options. Colombo suggests Cetaphil Dermacontrol Foaming Cleanser for oily skin and Cerave Hydrating Cleanser for dry skin.

Moisturizer

Skin is designed to keep the outside out (dirt, bacteria) and inside in (organs, bones, and joints). However, the skin can lose water, and that is where moisturizer comes in! Using a good moisturizer repairs skin barrier function and holds in water. 

Sunscreen

Colombo says it’s essential to apply sunscreen and reapply it every 2 hours if you’re exposed to the sun. Dr. Colombo recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which blocks both harmful UVA and UVB rays. Look for a product with at least SPF 30.