A new year is always a good reason to reassess beauty habits. Here’s how a Dermatologist suggests you approach your 2026 skincare routine to guarantee glowing skin for the year ahead!
By Emma, Copywriter & Editor, Hairhouse
What Makes a Successful Skincare Routine?
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A successful Skincare routine is about consistency. You can have a haul of the best brands and products on the market, but unless you use them routinely – and correctly - they won’t be of much help.
By learning how to layer Skincare correctly, identifying which Cleansers, Serums, Moisturisers and SPF work for your skin type - plus what products to apply AM as opposed to PM - will keep you in good stead for amazing skin in 2026!
Why Does a Skincare Routine Matter?
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Skin needs care. It’s as simple as that. Ageing is inevitable, as are the negative effects of the environment - including pollution and sun damage - but rather than trying to reverse damage done, prevent it taking hold today.
Here’s the steps to take to create your 2026 successful Skincare routine
Step 1: Cleansers
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A great Skincare routine begins with a high-quality Cleanser to remove dirt, oil, makeup, and pollutants that can clog pores and cause irritation. There is a formula to suit any skin type including:
- Gel Cleansers for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Cream Cleansers for dry or sensitive skin.
- Foaming Cleansers for combination skin.
Dermatologist Skincare Tip: Avoid cleaning your face with harsh soaps as these can strip vital nutrients from the skin’s natural barrier. If you don’t have a Cleanser on hand, use warm water and a face towel instead. Finish with a splash of cold water to close pores.
Step 2: Serums
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Serums are best applied on freshly cleansed skin. Why? Because on clean complexions, concentrated formulas have got the best chance of absorbing and working their magic. There are lots of Serums on the market, so do your homework based on your Skincare needs. Some popular picks include Serums containing Vitamin C to brighten Skintone, Niacinamide to control oil and Hyaluronic Acid when deep hydration is desired.
Dermatologist Skincare Tip: When layering Serums, always use the thinnest, most lightweight option first, working your way up. Start with water-based Serums then use oil-based Serums last. By layering ingredients correctly, you will get maximum results.
Step 3: Moisturisers
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No matter your skin type, Moisturisers are essential in every Skincare routine to seal in hydration, strengthening the skin barrier and preventing further loss of moisture. Here’s the best formulations to go with:
- Gel Based Moisturisers for oily skin.
- Lotion or Cream Moisturisers for normal skin
- Balms for dry skin.
Dermatologist Skincare Tip: Apply your Moisturisers after Serums and before SPF. If you have oily skin, you may want to skip the Serum step and just use Moisturisers to prevent the feeling of heavy product build up.
Step 4: SPF
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If there’s one thing every Dermatologist agrees on, it’s that SPF is a deal breaker. Never skip it. Ever! Daily sun protection is essential to prevent premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Dermatologist Skincare Tip: Some amazing 50+ Tinted Sunscreens offer both protection and coverage, so use them as part of your Beauty routine so you never forget to apply them each morning.
Step 4: PM Skincare
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At the end of every day, cleansing is vital to remove makeup and daily grit and grime. Repeat your daily routine sans SPF – upping your active ingredients for overnight instead.
Here’s Your Go-To Guide:
- AM Skincare: Focuses on protection via Cleansers, antioxidants, Moisturisers, and SPF.
- PM Skincare: Focuses on repair with Serums, retinoids, and hydrating night Moisturisers.
How to Layer Skincare:
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Here’s a quick refresh on how to layer your Skincare correctly for 11/10 skin!
AM Skincare Routine
Cleanser
Serum (e.g., Vitamin C)
Moisturiser
SPF
PM Skincare Routine
Cleanser
Serum (e.g., Retinol or Hydrating)
Moisturiser
Keen to kickstart your most successful Skincare routine this new year? Shop the best in Clean Beauty Skincare at Hairhouse!