Note: These are professional recommendations based on clinical experience and scientific evidence. Always patch test new products and consult with a healthcare provider for specific skin concerns. Links may include affiliate partnerships, but all recommendations are genuine.

Cleansers

For Sensitive/Dry Skin

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain skin barrier while cleansing. Non-foaming, fragrance-free formula.

~$14

Gentle Hydrating Barrier-Repair

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

Milky cleanser with prebiotic thermal water. Excellent for compromised skin barriers and rosacea.

~$16

Ultra-Gentle Rosacea-Safe

For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin

CeraVe Foaming Cleanser

Removes excess oil without stripping. Contains niacinamide to help control sebum production.

~$14

Oil-Control Non-Comedogenic

Panoxyl 4% Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser

Antimicrobial cleanser for active acne. Start 2-3x weekly to build tolerance.

~$10

Acne-Fighting Antimicrobial

Moisturizers

Daytime Moisturizers

CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

Lightweight, non-greasy formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Perfect under sunscreen.

~$13

Lightweight All Skin Types

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream

Hyaluronic acid gel formula ideal for oily skin or humid climates.

~$20

Oil-Free Hydrating

Night/Repair Moisturizers

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (in the tub)

Rich cream with ceramides, perfect for barrier repair and dry skin. Can be used on face and body.

~$16

Intensive Barrier-Repair

Vanicream Moisturizing Cream

Free of common irritants. Ideal for sensitive skin, eczema, or post-procedure care.

~$14

Sensitive-Skin Fragrance-Free

Sunscreens

Daily Face Sunscreens

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46

Contains niacinamide and zinc oxide. Excellent for acne-prone and sensitive skin. Lightweight, no white cast.

~$40

Mineral Acne-Safe Tinted Option

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF 30

100% mineral sunscreen with Cell-Ox Shield technology. Great for sensitive skin.

~$35

Mineral Antioxidants

Budget-Friendly Options

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Affordable mineral option with ceramides. Some white cast but good for dry skin.

~$15

Budget Hydrating

Neutrogena Clear Face SPF 30

Chemical sunscreen that won't clog pores. Good for oily, acne-prone skin.

~$11

Budget Oil-Free

Active Treatments

Retinoids/Retinols

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

Gentle retinol with ceramides and niacinamide. Good starter retinol.

~$20

Beginner-Friendly Gentle

Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%)

OTC retinoid proven effective for acne. Start 2-3x weekly.

~$15

Acne OTC-Retinoid

Exfoliants

Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid

Salicylic acid exfoliant for blackheads and texture. Use 2-3x weekly.

~$32

BHA Pore-Clearing

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

AHA for improving texture and brightness. Not for sensitive skin.

~$13

AHA Budget

Sample Skincare Routines

Basic Anti-Aging Routine

Morning

  1. Gentle cleanser
  2. Vitamin C serum (optional)
  3. Moisturizer
  4. SPF 30+ sunscreen

Evening

  1. Gentle cleanser
  2. Retinol/retinoid (start 2-3x weekly)
  3. Moisturizer

Acne-Prone Skin Routine

Morning

  1. Benzoyl peroxide cleanser
  2. Niacinamide serum
  3. Lightweight moisturizer
  4. Non-comedogenic SPF

Evening

  1. Gentle cleanser
  2. BHA exfoliant (2-3x weekly) OR retinoid
  3. Moisturizer

Sensitive/Rosacea Routine

Morning

  1. Gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
  2. Centella/Cica serum
  3. Barrier repair moisturizer
  4. Mineral SPF

Evening

  1. Gentle cleanser
  2. Azelaic acid (if tolerated)
  3. Rich moisturizer

Educational Downloads

📄 Skincare Ingredient Guide

Comprehensive PDF guide to understanding common skincare ingredients, their benefits, and how to use them.

Download PDF

📋 Skin Type Assessment

Printable questionnaire to help determine your skin type and customize your routine accordingly.

Download PDF

📊 Product Tracking Sheet

Track new products, reactions, and results with this printable skincare diary template.

Download PDF