How to Build a Skincare Routine Based on Your Skin Type and Your Goals

Creating a skincare routine that truly works for you isn’t about following trends, it’s about understanding your skin, honoring its needs, and choosing products that bring it back into balance. Whether your main concern is acne, fine lines, sensitivity, or dark spots, a personalized and intentional routine will always take you further than a complicated one. Below is a simple, esthetician-approved guide to help you understand your skin type and build a routine that supports your real goals.

Understanding Your Skin Type

Before choosing products, it’s essential to understand how your skin naturally behaves. This helps you select formulas that support — not overwhelm — your complexion. Oily: Shiny throughout the day, prone to clogged pores and blackheads.
Dry: Tight, flaky, or rough feeling; lacks moisture.
Combination: Oily T-zone with normal or dry cheeks.
Sensitive: Easily irritated or inflamed; reacts to many products.
When you understand your skin type, you can start choosing ingredients and textures that deliver results without disrupting your barrier.

If Your Goal Is Clearer Skin (Acne-Prone)

Focus on a routine that clears congestion while protecting your barrier. Key steps include:
• A gentle, non-stripping cleanser
• A chemical exfoliant (such as mandelic acid or salicylic acid)
• Niacinamide for redness and oil regulation
• Lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer
• Sunscreen daily to prevent post-inflammatory dark spots
Avoid harsh scrubs, toothpaste, alcohol-based toners, or picking — these only inflame acne further.

If Your Goal Is a Stronger Skin Barrier

A healthy barrier reduces redness, dryness, burning, peeling, and premature aging. If your skin often feels irritated, this is your first priority. Barrier-strengthening essentials:
• A creamy, calming cleanser
• Ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol
• Aloe, green tea extract, or centella asiatica
• Avoid fragrance, essential oils, and over-exfoliating
When your barrier is strong, every other skincare goal becomes easier to achieve.

If Your Goal Is Brighter, More Even Skin

Hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven tone often need gentle consistency, not intensity. Targeted brightening options:
• Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid or tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate)
• Azelaic acid
• Mandelic acid for acne-prone, sensitive skin
• Sunscreen — every single day
Remember: pigmentation worsens quickly when skin is irritated, so avoid strong peels or overdoing active ingredients.

If Your Goal Is Anti-Aging & Prevention

Focus on supporting collagen, elasticity, and long-term skin health. Key steps include:
• A hydrating cleanser
• Peptides to support firmness
• Retinoids (if tolerated) to improve texture and fine lines
• Antioxidants such as Vitamin C or green tea extract
• A daily mineral sunscreen
Retinoids are powerful — but they must be introduced slowly and correctly to avoid irritation. A professional plan helps ensure success.

Putting It All Together: A Simple Routine Framework

Morning:
1. Gentle cleanser
2. Targeted treatment (Vitamin C, niacinamide, azelaic acid, etc.)
3. Moisturizer
4. Sunscreen
Night:
1. Cleanser
2. Treatment (retinoid or exfoliant — not both on the same night unless professionally guided)
3. Moisturizer
Your routine does not need to be complicated. It just needs to be correct for your skin.

Need a Routine Designed Just for You?

If you’re feeling unsure about your skin type, which ingredients to use, or how to reach your goals, I offer: Virtual Skincare Consultations (in Spanish, with English support upon request) You’ll receive:
• A full virtual skin evaluation
• A personalized routine tailored to your goals (acne, aging, sensitivity, pigmentation, or dryness)
• Ingredient guidance (what to use + what to avoid)
• Professional product recommendations
• 48–72 hour follow-up support
Healthy, balanced skin begins with a routine made *for you*, not for everyone else.