The 4 Skincare Basics That Should Definitely Be In Your Routine

The Product: Cleanser

What it does: Removes makeup, dirt, oil, and other grime from your skin.
How to use it: Massage a dollop over wet skin, then rinse. (The exception: If youre using a micellar water, apply a few drops onto a cotton pad and swipe over dry skin, no rinsing required.)
When to use it: ALWAYS at night. (Repeat after us: I will not sleep in my makeup.) If your skin is especially oily, you can cleanse in the morning, too.

Try:

For oily skin: (MALIN+GOETZ) grapefruit face cleanser dissolves pore-clogging dirt and oil and the namesake citrus is naturally antibacterial to help prevent blemishes.
For all skin types: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser is mild yet effective, a foolproof pick for anyone and everyone.
For dry or sensitive skin: Bioderma Hydrabio H2O Moisturizing Make-Up Removing Micelle Solution is hydrating, gentle, and wont irritate even the most sensitive of skin.

The Product: Moisturizer

What it does: Adds moisture to your skin to keep it from lookingand feelingdry.
How to use it: Post-cleansing, pre-makeup, apply a quarter-size amount across your entire face. In the morning, apply it after your sunscreen (more on that next).
When to use it: Morning and night.

Try:

For oily skin: Avne Cleanance Expert does double-duty, both hydrating and mattifying unwanted shine.
For all skin types: Air Repair Complexion Boosting Moisturizer is rich but not too heavy, and loaded with good-for-your skin antioxidants.
For aging skin: Kiehls Super Multi-Corrective Cream packs an anti-aging punch, minimizing lines, firming, and also hydrating, of course.
For dry or sensitive skin: Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream is the ideal solution for superdry, red, irritated, or otherwise unhappy skin, thanks to its blend of complexion-repairing ingredients.

The Product: Sunscreen

What it does: Protects your skin from sun damage, which can cause both skin cancer and signs of aging, like spots and wrinkles.
How to use it: Apply a nickel-sized amount across your entire face, then another nickel-sized drop for your ears, neck, and chest. Apply it to clean skin and let sit for a few minutes to absorb prior to sun exposure.
When to use it: EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Thats 365 days a year, rain or shine, since the suns rays can penetrate through clouds and even glass.

Try:

For oily skin: COOLA Mineral Face SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint is silky and non-greasy, and has a slight tint to help even out your skin tone.
For all skin types: Kiehls Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+ is oil-free, never chalky, and so lightweight youll forget youre wearing it.
For dry skin: Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25 makes it easy to streamline your morning routine, delivering hydration, sun protection, and a little bit of color in one convenient tube.

The Product: Exfoliator

What it does: Removes dead cells that build up on the top layer of your skin, making it look dull and less than radiant.
How to use it: Depending on your skin type and the product youre using, anywhere from one to three times per week. Follow product directions, but most can be massaged into damp skin.
When to use it: At night, after cleansing. Apply a moisturizer afterward.

Try:

For oily skin: Trufora Triple Action Exfoliator both buffs away dead cells and gently dissolves themplus, it contains kaolin clay for an extra detoxifying and mattifying boost.
For aging skin: Real Chemistry Luminous 3-Minute Peel minimizes the look of spots, scars, and blotchiness in just three minutes, leaving your complexion looking extra glowy.
For all skin types: Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator uses papaya enzymes to break down dead skin cells, along with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and coconut to counteract any potential irritation.
For dry or sensitive skin: Derma E Hydrating Scrub is packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid to help moisturize skin as it exfoliates.