
Creating the ideal skin routine can be overwhelming when you have no idea where to start. Brands are promoting the newest + shiniest ingredients all the time promising life-changing results. So, you buy the product, you apply the product + you wait for your skin woes to disappear. And they don’t. So you’re out some money and are exactly back where you started.
What if you were armed with the knowledge of the ideal ingredients for your skin type so you could shop a little smarter? I’ve put together ingredients to look for by skin type + my top picks to shop to build your routine. Not sure what skin type you have? Keep reading.
Identifying Your Skin Type

First off, wash your face + don’t apply any products after patting dry. Leave skin bare for between 30 and 45 minutes.

Is your face feeling tight? You’ve likely got dry/dehydrated skin
Your skin is thirsty, so you need to opt for hydrating oils + creams! Look for ultra-hydrating “essence” in product titles. Also, products with antioxidants + niacinamide for their skin balancing properties. There’s a whole range of oils that’ll put the bounce back in your skin – argan, carrot seed and anything Omega 3, 6 or 9.
See below for some of my favorite products for dry skin

Is your face feeling greasy, or does it look shiny? You’ve got oily skin
Salicylic acid is oily skin’s best friend. Also known as Beta Hydroxy Acid (or BHA), salicylic acid gently exfoliates skin + shrinks pores to help prevent acne from forming in the first place. Look for products with up to 3% BHA to prevent overdrying. For those with acne prone skin with hyperpigmentation (dark acne scars), also look for products including Vitamin C to even skin tone. Opt for lightweight oils + moisturizers to keep skin hydrated, not greasy.
See below for some of my favorite products for oily skin

Is your face dry in some spots, and oily in others? You’ve got combination skin
You’ve got to be on your A game to properly care for your multi-faceted skin. Be sure to hydrate with AHAs, but also to balance with BHAs. Look for “gel” + “milk” cleansers to keep skin super balanced. Try not to go too heavy with cream moisturizers!
See below for some of my favorite products for combo skin

Is your face feeling the same as before you washed it? Close this post – you’re perfect! (Kidding. I’ve got products for you too! You have normal skin)
Your skin is so happy! Be kind + gentle to your face to keep it that way. Use a healthy mix of “lightweight” oils + creams. You can be a little more creative with your skincare ingredients, but remember to do a test patch first. That means applying the skincare to a spot on your skin (I use my inner wrist) + letting the product sit for an hour to see how your skin reacts.
See below for some of my favorite products for normal skin
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