Core Principles

• Prevention over correction: Daily SPF and barrier-first care to minimize future issues.
• Gentle, layered formulas: Lightweight textures that stack without overwhelming the skin.
• Ingredients that work together: Hydrators (HA), soothers (cica), brighteners (niacinamide), and mild exfoliants.

The Simple Routine (AM/PM)

1. Cleanser: AM: gentle gel or cream; PM: remove sunscreen/makeup first if needed.
2. Toner/Essence: Hydrate and prep with humectants (HA), panthenol, or rice extract.
3. Serum: Choose one goal: brighten (niacinamide/Vit C), calm (cica), or smooth (peptides).
4. Moisturizer: Seal hydration with light gel-cream or richer cream for dry skin.
5. SPF (AM only): Broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 daily—non-negotiable.

Weekly Boosters

• Exfoliation (1–2×/week): Gentle AHA/BHA or enzyme to refine texture and clarity.
• Masks (2–3×/week): Sheet, wash-off, or sleeping masks to match your skin’s daily mood.

How to Pick Products by Skin Goal

• Hydration & Barrier: Ceramides, squalane, panthenol, hyaluronic acid.
• Redness & Sensitivity: Centella asiatica, mugwort, green tea, madecassoside.
• Brightening & Even Tone: Niacinamide, vitamin C derivatives, arbutin, rice.
• Oil Control & Pores: BHA, zinc PCA, light gel textures, non-comedogenic oils.
• Firming & Smoothness: Peptides, adenosine, ginseng, probiotics.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-exfoliating: Keep acids low and slow; watch for dryness or sting.
• Too many actives at once: Start with one target serum; add others gradually.
• Skipping SPF: Sunscreen is the foundation of any brightening or anti-age routine.

30-Day Starter Plan

1. Weeks 1–2: Build tolerance—cleanse, hydrate, moisturize, SPF (AM), + one gentle serum.
2. Week 3: Add exfoliation 1×/week + one hydrating mask night.
3. Week 4: Increase masks to 2×/week or add a second targeted serum if skin is happy.

FAQs