Skincare Basics: Building a Simple Routine

A good routine is one you can keep doing. For most people, three steps cover the essentials: cleanse, moisturise and protect.

1. Cleanse

Use a gentle cleanser morning and evening. Harsh soaps can strip the skin and leave it feeling tight. Dry or sensitive skin often suits a cream or non-foaming cleanser; oily skin may prefer a gel cleanser.

2. Moisturise

A moisturiser helps support the skin's natural barrier. Ingredients such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid are common in moisturisers. Lighter gels may suit oily skin, while richer creams suit dry skin.

3. Protect

Nairobi has strong sunshine all year round. A broad-spectrum sunscreen applied every morning — and reapplied when you are outdoors for long periods — helps protect your skin from sun damage.

Introducing new products

• Add one new product at a time so you can tell how your skin reacts.
• Try a small amount on a patch of skin first.
• Stop using a product if it causes stinging, redness or a rash.

This article is general information and does not replace professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, speak to a doctor or pharmacist.