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Classics are classics for a reason. Whether it’s books everyone loves or go-to outfit combos like jeans and white sneakers, you can’t argue with what’s tried and true. While I love trying new things and participating in the occasional trend, I always seem to return to my staples—especially in beauty. My skincare and makeup routines are pretty consistent these days. Even when I switch out products or experiment with new colors, I know what ingredients work. And to no one’s surprise, it’s a basic, no-frills skincare routine that anyone can achieve—no matter what your budget.
Featured image from our interview with Sanetra Longno.
How to Curate the Perfect Capsule Skincare Routine
As a beauty editor, friends of all ages, budgets, and genders come to me for skincare advice regularly. What products should I use? What order should I use them in? Often, they come with screenshots of Instagram ads and ask me if they should buy them. Invariably, I give them the same answer: What is your skin like? Every skin type has different needs. Dry skin needs moisture and hydration. Acne-prone skin needs deep cleansing. And treating fine lines or hyperpigmentation requires targeted, specific approaches. Suddenly, I have my friends in the mirror, doing a detailed analysis of their skin—and from there, I make my recommendations.
Cue their second surprise: It’s usually pretty simple. I recommend they use a cleanser, a serum, a moisturizer, and an SPF. Maybe an extra nighttime serum or retinol. Of course, I also suggest they ask a dermatologist or esthetician. But my personal philosophy is about getting back to basics. Like a capsule fashion closet, start with the basics, then add specialized serums (your skincare statement piece) to address your skincare goals.
The Definitive Guide to Save vs Splurge Skincare
Like a basic white tee or the perfect tank top, you can find skincare basics at either end of the pricing spectrum. When it comes to skincare, price doesn’t have to correlate with quality. You can find amazing, effective products in the drugstore or lining the walls of a high-end spa. What matters is what’s inside. Read on for beauty editor-approved skincare basics, whether you’re looking to save or splurge.
A Really Good Cleanser
Should you splurge on a cleanser? Some might say it’s a waste — investing in something that only stays on your face for a minute (at least!). I’ll leave that up to you. But here’s what you should know: A bad cleanser can sabotage the rest of your skincare routine. Whether it strips your skin barrier or leaves debris in your pores, using the wrong cleanser might be the cause of your skin woes. So no matter how much you spend on your cleanser, make sure it’s doing the right thing for your skin goals. Plus, actually removing your makeup and sunscreen.
To Save:
To Splurge:
Hydrating Serum
Dry skin? Add a hydrating serum to your routine to get that glass skin look. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, squalane, ceramides, and glycerin will help you lock in moisture and help your skin repair itself.
To Save:
To Splurge:
Antioxidant Serum
Antioxidants are your skin’s secret weapon. They do it all: brighten, protect, and speed up cell turnover to fight fine lines and premature signs of aging. For all skin types, an antioxidant serum is key to future-proofing your skin while making you glowy, now. Popular antioxidants include:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A (aka retinol)
- Vitamin E
- Niacinamide
- Coenzyme Q10
To Save:
To Splurge:
Moisturizer
Every routine needs a moisturizer. But the wrong one can clog your pores. Or, worse, if it’s full of filler and comedogenic ingredients, it can break apart your skin. A good moisturizer is one that locks in the rest of your routine while letting your skin breathe. Look for skin-replenishing ingredients that strengthen your moisture barrier.
To Save:
To Splurge:
Sunscreen
If you’re skipping sunscreen, you’re rendering your whole routine ineffective. Sunscreen doesn’t just protect from nasty burns; it also prevents premature signs of aging like fine lines and dark spots, while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
To Save:
To Splurge:
Glow Primer
For an extra glow, finish with a glowy primer. Either add makeup on top or keep it minimal—especially in the summer.