Your skin type is the foundation of your skincare routine. Identifying your skin type correctly will determine the products you choose and the steps you follow.

✔️ Oily Skin:

• Characterized by excess sebum production, oily skin often appears shiny and may be prone to acne and enlarged pores.
• What to use: Lightweight, oil-free moisturisers; gel-based cleansers; niacinamide to regulate oil production.
• Common Actives: Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Zinc PCA.
• Warnings: Avoid harsh, drying products that strip natural oils, as this can trigger more oil production.

✔️ Dry Skin:

• Lacks sufficient natural oils, making it prone to flaking, irritation, and tightness.
• What to use: Rich moisturisers with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and nourishing oils like squalane.
• Common Actives: Hyaluronic Acid (HA), Ceramides, Panthenol (B5).
• Warnings: Avoid foaming cleansers and alcohol-heavy products that dehydrate the skin.

✔️ Combination Skin:

• Typically oily in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and dry on the cheeks.
• What to use: Balancing cleansers, lightweight moisturisers, and targeted treatments.
• Common Actives: Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Azelaic Acid.
• Warnings: Avoid overloading dry areas with heavy creams and oily areas with drying products.

✔️ Sensitive Skin:

• Easily irritated, reactive, and prone to redness.
• What to use: Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas; soothing ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera.
• Common Actives: Centella Asiatica, Allantoin, Panthenol (B5).
• Warnings: Avoid products with strong acids, alcohol, or excessive fragrance.

✔️ Mature Skin:

• Skin that has naturally reduced collagen production, showing signs of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
• What to use: Products rich in peptides, retinol, antioxidants, and nourishing oils like marula and squalane.
• Common Actives: Retinol, Peptides, Bakuchiol.
• Warnings: Avoid overly aggressive exfoliants that can thin the skin barrier.

✔️ Children’s Skin:

• Delicate and prone to dryness or irritation.
• What to use: Mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers; minimal skincare routines are best.
• Warnings: Avoid harsh soaps, chemical-heavy products, and aggressive treatments.

Selecting products based on their active ingredients ensures targeted results.

✔️ Hydration: Hyaluronic acid (HA), glycerin, and ceramides draw moisture into the skin.

✔️ Anti-Ageing: Retinol, peptides, and vitamin C support collagen production and skin repair.

✔️ Brightening: Niacinamide, vitamin C, and licorice extract reduce pigmentation and promote glow.

✔️ Soothing: Aloe vera, chamomile, and centella asiatica calm irritation and redness.

✔️ Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that stabilises oils, supports skin repair, and enhances hydration.

✔️Squalane ( NOT Squalene) Oil: Derived from grass juice or olives, this oil is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and deeply nourishing. Suitable for all skin types.

✔️Low-PUFA Oils for Stability and Skin Benefits: Low-PUFA oils are more stable and less prone to oxidation, making them ideal for skincare. Recommended options include:

Fractionated Coconut Oil: Fast-absorbing with minimal PUFA content.

Squalane Oil: Lightweight, non-greasy, and highly stable. Ideal for all skin types.

Jojoba Oil: Mimics skin’s natural sebum and balances oil production.

Moringa Oil: Antioxidant-rich with exceptional stability.

Babassu Oil: Lightweight yet deeply moisturizing; ideal for body care.

Macadamia Nut Oil: Perfect for mature or dry skin.

Marula Oil: Antioxidant-rich with long-lasting hydration.

Exfoliation is crucial for removing dead skin cells and improving skin texture. Common acids used in skincare include:

✔️AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): Glycolic acid, lactic acid (great for dry or mature skin).

✔️BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids): Salicylic acid (best for oily or acne-prone skin).

✔️PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids): Gluconolactone (gentle exfoliant for sensitive skin).

❗ Avoid using Vitamin C or Vitamin A (retinol) on exfoliation days to prevent irritation. Instead, focus on hydrating and calming ingredients.

A solid daily routine maximizes product effectiveness.

AM Routine:

✔️ Cleanser (gentle and suitable for your skin type)

✔️ Antioxidant serum (like vitamin C)

✔️ Moisturiser (lightweight for oily skin, richer for dry skin)

✔️ SPF (if desired, or alternative protective measures)

PM Routine:

✔️ Cleanser (double cleanse for makeup wearers)

✔️ Targeted treatment (retinol, niacinamide, or anti-ageing products)

✔️ Moisturiser (with nourishing oils)

Discover the power of facial yoga, fascia release, and facial massage. Adding neck, shoulder, and foot massages to your routine can work wonders for overall relaxation and well-being.

My favourites:

NAISSANCE

The ORDINARY

MADARA Cosmetics

RUMI Cosmetiques

WELEDA

dear CLAIRS

LUMENE

NOUGHTY

MEDIK 8

Beauty of Joseon

These everyday essentials are staples in most routines:

✔️ Body Washes and Shower Gels

✔️ Shampoos and Conditioners

✔️ Deodorants and Antiperspirants

✔️ Toothpastes and Mouthwashes

✔️ Hand Washes and Soaps

✔️ Moisturisers and Lotions

✔️ Face Cleansers and Toners

✔️ Sunscreens and SPF Products

✔️ Makeup (Foundation, Mascara, Lipsticks, etc.)

✔️ Fragrances and Perfumes

Reducing harmful chemicals can protect your skin, improve your health, and even support the environment. Here’s what to watch for:

✔️ Parabens – Used as preservatives, parabens can mimic estrogen and disrupt hormonal balance. Found in: lotions, shampoos, and body washes.

✔️ Sulfates (SLS/SLES) – Strong cleansing agents that can strip natural oils and cause irritation. Found in: shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers.

✔️ Phthalates – Linked to hormone disruption and found in fragrances. Found in: perfumes, deodorants, and hair sprays.

✔️ Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-releasing agents – Preservatives known for their potential carcinogenic effects. Found in: nail polish, shampoos, and hair treatments.

✔️ Triclosan – An antibacterial agent that can irritate the skin and may disrupt hormone regulation. Found in: antibacterial soaps and some toothpastes.

✔️ Synthetic Fragrances – Often composed of undisclosed chemicals that may trigger allergies, headaches, or skin irritation. Found in: perfumes, lotions, and hair care products.

✔️ Mineral Oil and Petrolatum – Can create a barrier that traps toxins and prevents the skin from breathing. Found in: lip balms, body lotions, and some baby oils.

✔️ Alcohol (Denatured or SD Alcohol) – Harsh and drying, especially for sensitive or dry skin types. Found in: toners, astringents, and some makeup products.

✔️ Toluene – A solvent linked to neurological damage. Found in: nail polish and hair dyes.

✔️ Oxybenzone – A common sunscreen ingredient known to disrupt hormones and irritate sensitive skin. Found in: SPF lotions and sprays.

✔️ Read the Ingredient List: Focus on formulas with fewer ingredients and recognizable names.

✔️ Go Fragrance-Free: Opt for naturally scented or unscented products to reduce irritation.

✔️ Embrace Natural Oils: Oils like coconut, jojoba, and squalane are excellent for hydration without synthetic additives.

✔️ Look for Certifications: Labels like “ECOCERT,” “COSMOS,” or “USDA Organic” often indicate safer formulations.

✔️ Check with Apps: Tools like Yuka, INCI Beauty, or Think Dirty can help assess if products are in the green (safe) or red (potentially harmful) zone.

✔️ DIY Options: Simple recipes using ingredients like honey, oatmeal, or avocado can replace some commercial products effectively.

Replacing harsh chemicals with gentler ingredients can support your skin’s natural balance. Look for these in place of harmful chemicals:

✔️ Preservative Alternatives: Vitamin E, rosemary extract, and grapefruit seed extract.

✔️ Gentle Cleansers: Coco-glucoside, decyl glucoside, or mild soap bases.

✔️ Natural Fragrances: Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, or rose.

✔️ Emulsifiers and Thickeners: Xanthan gum, guar gum, or beeswax.

✔️ Natural Exfoliants: Sugar, salt, coffee grounds, and finely ground oats.

1. Lavender Oil ✔️ Benefits: Calms anxiety, improves sleep, soothes skin irritation, and aids in wound healing. ✔️ Precautions: May irritate sensitive skin if applied undiluted; perform a patch test before use.

2. Tea Tree Oil ✔️ Benefits: Antibacterial, anti-fungal, and effective for acne treatment and scalp care. ✔️Precautions: Highly potent — must be diluted to avoid irritation. Avoid use near the eyes and mouth.

3. Peppermint Oil ✔️ Benefits: Relieves headaches, muscle pain, and improves focus. Known for its cooling effect. ✔️ Precautions: Avoid applying near the eyes; may cause irritation for sensitive skin. Not recommended for children under six.

4. Eucalyptus Oil ✔️ Benefits: Clears congestion, boosts respiratory health, and acts as a natural insect repellent. ✔️ Precautions: Toxic if ingested. Keep away from children and pets. Best avoided by individuals with asthma unless recommended by a healthcare provider.

5. Frankincense Oil ✔️ Benefits: Promotes relaxation, supports skin healing, and may improve respiratory function. ✔️ Precautions: Can cause mild irritation if applied undiluted; dilute before topical use.

6. Rosemary Oil ✔️ Benefits: Stimulates hair growth, improves memory, and enhances focus. ✔️Precautions: Avoid during pregnancy and with high blood pressure. Always dilute before applying to the scalp or skin.

7. Lemon Oil ✔️ Benefits: Uplifting aroma, aids in skin brightening, and acts as a natural disinfectant. ✔️ Precautions: Increases photosensitivity; avoid sun exposure for 12 hours after applying topically.

8. Chamomile Oil ✔️ Benefits: Calms sensitive skin, reduces redness, and soothes anxiety. ✔️ Precautions: May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to ragweed or daisies.

9. Geranium Oil ✔️ Benefits: Balances skin’s oil production, calms inflammation, and promotes hormonal balance. ✔️ Precautions: May cause irritation for sensitive skin; dilute before use.

10. Clary Sage Oil ✔️ Benefits: Balances hormones, reduces menstrual discomfort, and promotes relaxation. ✔️ Precautions: Avoid during pregnancy unless advised by a healthcare provider. Can cause drowsiness if overused.

11. Bergamot Oil ✔️ Benefits: Uplifting and calming, known for reducing stress and improving mood. ✔️Precautions: Increases photosensitivity; avoid sun exposure after topical use.

12. Black Pepper Oil ✔️ Benefits: Relieves muscle tension, improves circulation, and warms aching joints. ✔️ Precautions: Can irritate sensitive skin; dilute well before use.

13. Copaiba Oil ✔️ Benefits: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for calming skin irritation. ✔️ Precautions: Typically safe but should be diluted for topical use.

14. Cypress Oil ✔️ Benefits: Supports circulation, reduces swelling, and improves respiratory function. ✔️Precautions: Avoid during pregnancy; dilute before topical use.

15. Helichrysum Oil ✔️ Benefits: Renowned for its wound-healing properties, reduces scars, and calms inflammation. ✔️ Precautions: Safe for most users but dilute before use on sensitive skin.

16. Lemongrass Oil ✔️ Benefits: Natural antibacterial, anti-fungal, and stress-relieving properties. ✔️Precautions: Highly potent; dilute well before skin application.

17. Melissa Oil (Lemon Balm) ✔️ Benefits: Calms anxiety, aids sleep, and reduces tension. ✔️ Precautions: May cause irritation for sensitive skin; dilute before topical use.

18. Palmarosa Oil ✔️ Benefits: Hydrates skin, balances sebum production, and supports healthy cell renewal. ✔️ Precautions: Can cause mild irritation; patch test recommended.

19. Spearmint Oil ✔️ Benefits: Soothes digestive discomfort, relieves headaches, and promotes mental clarity. ✔️ Precautions: Milder than peppermint, but still requires dilution for skin use.

20. Ylang Ylang Oil ✔️ Benefits: Reduces anxiety, balances oily skin, and promotes relaxation. ✔️Precautions: Strong scent; may cause headaches in some individuals. Use in small amounts.

21. Cedarwood Oil ✔️ Benefits: Calms the mind, improves scalp health, and helps reduce dandruff. ✔️Precautions: Can cause irritation for sensitive skin; always dilute before topical use.

22. Cinnamon Oil ✔️ Benefits: Stimulates circulation, relieves muscle soreness, and offers antibacterial properties. ✔️ Precautions: Highly potent and can irritate the skin; always dilute well and avoid use on sensitive areas.

23. Patchouli Oil ✔️ Benefits: Known for its grounding aroma, reduces anxiety, and aids in skin rejuvenation. ✔️Precautions: Strong scent; dilute well before use.

24. Thyme Oil ✔️ Benefits: Strong antibacterial properties, ideal for wound care and respiratory support. ✔️ Precautions: Can irritate sensitive skin; always dilute before topical use.

25. Ginger Oil ✔️ Benefits: Stimulates digestion, relieves muscle pain, and boosts circulation. ✔️Precautions: May irritate sensitive skin; dilute before topical use.

Usage Tips for Essential Oils:

✔️ Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil) before applying to the skin.

✔️ Perform a patch test before using new oils to check for allergic reactions.

✔️ Avoid ingesting essential oils unless guided by a qualified healthcare provider.

✔️ Store oils in dark glass bottles away from heat and sunlight to preserve potency.

✔️ For aromatherapy, use a diffuser for safe inhalation.

✔️ The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser – Gentle, non-stripping, great for all skin types. Hydrating and melts away makeup. Affordable and effective.

✔️ Mádara Purifying Foam – Light foam with Northern Yarrow, ideal for combination skin. Balances without irritation. Also their Micellar water is great.

✔️ COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser – Gentle gel cleanser, pH-balanced, great for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

✔️ Klairs Rich Moist Foaming Cleanser – Deep hydration with amino acids, perfect for dry or irritated skin.

✔️ RUMI Amino Blend+ Micellar Makeup Remover – Gentle yet powerful cleanser designed for mature skin.

✔️ The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA – Lightweight yet deeply hydrating, perfect for oily or combination skin.

✔️ Mádara SOS Hydra Recharge Cream – Ultra-hydrating, ideal for dry, stressed skin. Rich yet non-greasy.

✔️ Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream – Korean favourite with rice water and ginseng for hydration and skin glow.

✔️ Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream – A staple for sensitive skin, packed with ceramides and calming ingredients.

✔️ COSRX Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream – A nourishing choice for damaged or compromised skin barriers.

✔️ The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% – Balances oil, minimizes pores, and reduces blemishes.

✔️ Mádara Time Miracle Cellular Repair Serum – Packed with antioxidants to reduce fine lines and promote firm skin.

✔️ COSRX Triple C Lightning Liquid – A powerful Vitamin C serum for brightening and anti-aging benefits.

✔️ I’m From Ginseng Serum – Korean classic with anti-aging properties, boosting collagen production.

✔️ Pyunkang Yul Moisture Serum – A simple yet effective hydration serum ideal for sensitive skin.

✔️ Mádara Infusion Vert Firming Body Oil – Packed with plant-based oils to firm and nourish the skin.

✔️ The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil – Great for scars, pigmentation, and skin repair.

✔️ Naissance Fractionated Organic Coconut Oil – Hydrating yet lightweight; ideal for body care

✔️ Naissance Lavender Essential Oil – Excellent for relaxation, sleep, and calming irritated skin.

✔️ dōTERRA Frankincense Oil – Known for its exceptional purity and therapeutic properties.

✔️ Plant Therapy Tea Tree Oil – Affordable and potent antibacterial for skincare and scalp health.

✔️ Absolute Aromas Rosemary Oil – Pure and ideal for scalp health, boosting hair growth.

✔️ Young Living Peppermint Oil – Energising and refreshing with excellent sourcing standards.

✔️ Dry Skin: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 – Deep hydration for thirsty skin.

✔️ Oily Skin: COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid – Controls oil, reduces breakouts, and refines pores.

✔️ Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra – Hypoallergenic and designed to calm reactive skin.

✔️ Mature Skin: Mádara Smart Antioxidants Fine Line Minimizing Day Cream – Fights wrinkles while keeping skin plump.

✔️ The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane – Lightweight yet deeply nourishing for face, body, and hair.

✔️ EGYPTIAN Magic All-Purpose Skin Cream – Cult favourite for healing dry patches, scars, and irritation.

✔️ Cicaplast Baume B5 by La Roche-Posay – Multi-purpose balm for dry, cracked, or damaged skin.