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🌟 The Ultimate 5-Step Routine for Glowing Skin (Dermatologist-Approved Basics)

Introduction: Why a Consistent Routine Matters

Achieving that coveted “glow” isn’t about expensive facials; it’s about consistency and using the right products in the right order. Dermatologists agree: a solid routine doesn’t need to be complex, just effective.

If you’re ready to move past guesswork, here is the ultimate, easy-to-follow 5-step morning and evening routine that forms the foundation of great skin health.

☀️ The Morning Routine: Protect & Prepare

The morning is all about cleansing away overnight buildup and, most importantly, protecting your skin from environmental damage.

Step 1: Gentle Cleansing

Start your day fresh. A gentle cleanser removes any oils, sweat, or leftover products from the night before without stripping your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

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Step 2: Antioxidant Serum (Vitamin C)

This is your skin’s shield! Vitamin C serums fight off free radicals caused by pollution and UV rays, brighten your complexion, and boost collagen production. Don’t skip this step.

  • Why We Love It: We recommend [Amazon Affiliate Link: [Product Name of a popular Vitamin C Serum]] because it uses L-Ascorbic Acid, the most effective form of Vitamin C, stabilized for maximum potency.

Step 3: Moisturize

Even oily skin needs moisture! Moisturizing keeps your skin barrier healthy, prevents water loss, and primes your face for makeup (if you wear it). Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula.

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Step 🔑 Step 4: Non-Negotiable SPF (Sun Protection)

This is the single most important anti-aging step. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every single day, rain or shine.

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🌙 The Evening Routine: Repair & Regenerate

The evening is when your skin goes into repair mode, making it the perfect time to introduce powerful treatment ingredients.

Step 5: Double Cleansing

If you wear makeup or heavy SPF, double cleansing is a game-changer.

  1. First Cleanse (Oil-Based): Use an oil cleanser or cleansing balm to dissolve makeup, dirt, and oil.
  2. Second Cleanse (Water-Based): Follow up with your gentle foam or gel cleanser (the same one from the morning) to clean the pores deeply.
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Step 6: Targeted Treatment (Retinoids or AHAs/BHAs)

This is where you target specific concerns (acne, wrinkles, dark spots). Most dermatologists recommend a Retinoid (like Retinol or Tretinoin) for aging and acne, or an AHA/BHA product for exfoliation.

⚠️ Note: Start retinoids slowly (2-3 times per week) and never use them at the same time as AHAs/BHAs.

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Step 7: Final Moisturizer

Lock in all those beneficial ingredients with a richer, more restorative moisturizer than your morning one. This prevents Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL) while you sleep.

  • Night Cream Pick: [Amazon Affiliate Link: [Product Name of a thicker, restorative Night Cream]]. This deeply hydrates and supports the skin barrier overnight.

Your Weekly Boost (1-2 Times)

To supplement your daily routine, incorporate these treatments:

  • Chemical Exfoliation Mask: Use a mask containing AHAs (like Glycolic Acid) or BHAs to deeply resurface and brighten the skin. (Skip your Retinoid on these nights!)
  • Hydrating Sheet Mask: A quick boost of hydration and soothing ingredients after a long day.