The Right Facial Routine for Your Skin Type

A good routine is short, consistent and matched to your skin rather than to a trend.

Dry skin

Choose a cream cleanser instead of a foaming one, and layer a hydrating serum under a richer moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp. Weekly gentle exfoliation helps other products absorb.

Oily skin

Wash twice daily with a mild gel cleanser, and do not skip moisturiser, since dehydrated skin produces more oil. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas and use a clay mask once a week on the T-zone.

Combination skin

Treat zones separately: a lighter gel on the forehead and nose, a richer cream on the cheeks. A balancing serum with niacinamide suits most combination skin.

Everyone

Sunscreen every morning, and a professional facial every six to eight weeks to clear congestion you cannot reach at home. If your skin reacts to a new product, stop it rather than layering more on top.