Whenever I’m doing a consultation with my clients, the one part I never skip is skincare. In fact, that’s what I start with. Skincare is super important, and it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Moreover, the better your skin is, the better your makeup will look, and you may even find yourself wearing less, or wearing it less often. Face makeup (foundation, concealer, etc.) is usually what I skip when I’m in a rush or just feeling lazy, because I’m strict on skincare.

I always recommend six basic items: cleanser, toner, anti-aging moisturizer with SPF, night moisturizer, an exfoliant, and eye makeup remover. The exact ones vary based on my client’s skin type. I support mask use as well. And of course, there’s a world of serums and more to explore, but for some clients, six items tends to be their max.

For myself, I use a variety of products, depending on what my combination skin needs, but below is my main routine.

Cleanser: First Aid Beauty, Face Cleanser
Toner: Paula’s Choice, RESIST Advanced Replenishing Toner
Day Moisturizer: Paula’s Choice, SKIN RECOVERY Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Night Moisturizer: Paula’s Choice, RESIST Intensive Repair Cream

Weekly Chemical Exfoliant: First Aid Beauty, FAB Skin Lab Resurfacing Liquid 10% AHA
Weekly Manual Exfoliant: Fresh, Sugar Face Polish

Moisturizing Face Mask: boscia, Tsubaki Oil Gel Deep Hydration Mask
Clearing Face Mask: Shiseido, Purifying Mask

I use serums and treatments for hyperpigmentation as well, but pretty much stick to the above products, which keep my skin clear and glowing.

Finding the right products (I can help!) can be a process of trial and error, and you may need to change them with the seasons or as your skin changes, but once you do, you’ll be on the way to gorgeous skin in no time.