Maintaining healthy and radiant skin is an essential part of self-care.
With this super simple AM and PM skincare routine, you can stay committed to your skincare goals no matter the time of day.
With so many skincare products and routines available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Since everyone has different skin, the products and processes that work for your mom or your sister may not work for you.
However, by following a few basic steps and finding products that work for your skin type, you can create a simple and effective am and pm skincare routine that will help you achieve healthy and glowing skin.
In this blog, I will share the simple four-step skincare routine that has helped me achieve a glowing complexion. We’ll explore why skin care is important, discuss the differences between AM and PM skincare routines, and dive into the benefits of a consistent skincare regimen. I’ll even share my product recommendations for every step. Yet, since everyone has different skincare needs,, be sure to use products that are best suited for your skin type.
Let’s get started!
What is the difference between an AM and PM skincare routine?
While the AM routine focuses on protecting and preparing the skin for the day ahead, the PM routine emphasizes cleansing, repair, and replenishment to support the skin’s natural rejuvenation during sleep. Adapting your skincare routine to suit both morning and evening needs can optimize the health and appearance of your skin.
Why is skin care important?
Having a proper am and pm skincare routine can help reduce inflammation, redness, the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and also age spots. Skin care helps maintain and protect the skin’s health and overall appearance, prevent and treat various skin conditions, and can boost confidence and self-esteem. Here are five benefits of skincare.
5 Benefits of Skincare
- Promotes healthy skin: A proper skincare routine can help improve prone skin and the overall health of your skin by protecting it from environmental factors, such as pollution and UV rays.
- Reduces the risk of skin cancer: Regular use of sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer.
- Improves skin texture and tone: Skincare products containing exfoliating agents, like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), can help remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture and tone.
- Reduces acne and breakouts: Proper skin care can help prevent and treat acne by keeping the skin clean and hydrated, and by using products containing ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
- Boost Confidence: Last but not least, taking care of your skin can boost confidence. Having healthy, glowing skin can improve your self-esteem and confidence, leading to a more positive approach to life.
My Super Simple AM and PM Skincare Routine
No matter what time of day it is, this am and pm step skincare routine is the cornerstone to get you both through the day in night. On days when you don’t feel like going full out, this am and pm skincare routine will keep your skin healthy and glowing and protect your skin barrier.
Cleanse – The 60-Second Rule (AM and PM)
Cleansing your face is the first and vital step in any skincare routine.
Washing your face helps remove makeup, dirt, oil, and impurities accumulated throughout the day or night. Always double cleanse. This step shouldn’t be skipped if you’re adopting this am and pm skincare routine for oily skin.
Start by choosing a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type. Gently massage the cleanser onto your damp face, following the 60-second rule, focusing on areas prone to congestion.
After washing your face for 60 seconds, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, pat dry, and get ready for the next step.
Recommendation: NIACINAMIDE CLEANSING GELÉE 3%
Tone – Prep (AM and PM)
Toning your skin after cleansing helps restore its pH balance and prepare it for better absorption of subsequent products.
Choose an alcohol-free toner suitable for your skin type. Rather than using a cotton pad to apply your tones, apply the toner directly into your hands and pat it onto your face. By applying it directly from your hands, your skin feels more refreshed.
Toners are a must-have item. They are a holy grail you shouldn’t forget when you shop for skincare products.
Recommendation: Heritage Stone Rose Water
Serum – Treat Your Skin (PM)*
After applying toner, it’s time to address specific skin concerns with a targeted serum.
Whether you want to brighten, hydrate, or combat signs of aging, serums deliver concentrated active ingredients to the deeper layers of your skin.
Apply a few drops of your chosen serum to your fingertips and gently pat it onto your face and neck. Allow the serum to absorb fully before proceeding to the next step.
*Serum can also be applied as a part of your AM routine. However, not all serums are recommended for day use because of their sensitivity agents. If you are a beginner to using serums, I suggest only using them at night until you have mastered putting on sunscreen daily.
Moisturize – Hydration is Key (AM, PM)
Keeping your skin well-hydrated is the key to achieving a soft and supple complexion.Moisturising is a key step in any routine but especially in the am and pm skincare routine for dry skin.
After toning or applying serum, moisturize your face with a suitable lotion or face cream.
When choosing a moisturizer, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. These ingredients provide additional hydration and help seal in moisture
Gently massage the moisturizer into your skin using upward strokes, allowing it to absorb fully. Although you may think to skip this step, hydrating your skin is crucial to completing your routine. This step should never be skipped. Be sure to always apply moisturizer in both your AM and PM skincare routine.
Recommendation: Cerave Moisturizing Lotion (With 3-essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid)
Protect – Sunscreen (AM)
Shielding your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial for maintaining its health and youthful appearance. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 in the morning.
Applying sunscreen protects your skin from premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer. Smooth two full fingers worth of sunscreen onto your face, neck, and décolleté. Most importantly, remember to reapply every two hours if you are outdoors for an extended period of time.
Recommendation: BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN (Unlike most sunscreen, this sunscreen doesn’t leave a white overcast.)
Takeaway
In conclusion, this simple four-step skincare routine can make a big difference in achieving and maintaining healthy, radiant skin.
By incorporating an AM and PM skincare routine into your daily regimen, you create a comprehensive approach to skincare. You can even adapt this AM and PM skincare routine for acne-prone skin. This approach ensures that your skin receives the necessary protection, nourishment, and care throughout the day, promoting optimal skin health and a glowing complexion.
Remember, skincare is a personal journey. Adapt this AM and PM skincare routine to your specific skin type and needs. Find the products that work best for you and enjoy the process of nurturing your skin to its fullest potential.
Additionally, if you’re looking for more self-nurturing activities, get our free self care vault, including our idea book with over 50 Self Care Ideas.
Please note that it’s recommended to consult a dermatologist or skin care professional for personalized advice and product recommendations.
Adapt this AM and PM skincare routine to your specific skin type and needs. Find the products that work best for you and enjoy the process of nurturing your skin to its fullest potential.