Have you been cracking your head over what your daily skincare routine should be? Do you find yourself wading through a sea of new, exciting products with no clue on where to begin?

We don’t blame you! With so many great skincare products around and a seemingly increasing list of steps to take for that flawless complexion, things can get a little confusing for the average newbie.

You’re in luck, however, as we’re going to break it down for you! Here’s a basic, step-by-step, fuss-free skincare timeline for the working lady.

TIMELINE:

1. Makeup Removal

Although this step seems like a no-brainer, don’t take it for granted! Proper makeup removal is necessary to keep your face fresh, unclogged and acne-free, and the truth of the matter is that face wash alone is just not going to cut it.

Picking the right makeup remover is important here; try choosing a product that is tailored to your skin’s condition and will not strip away moisture - makeup removers with a high content of alcohol, for example, may work faster, but may not be good for your skin in the long run.

Try: Berrisom’s Essential Cleansing Water

This little wonder moisturises and prevents dryness, and even goes the extra mile - it contains lily, magnolia, and morning glory extracts that work to remove dead skin cells and brighten your visage. Best part? It works with all skin types!

2. Cleansing

Time to get your cleanse on! Whether you love a good scrub or a foamy rinse, make sure to be gentle - use only your third and fourth fingers, and move them in an upwards motion. And hey, enjoy it! There’s nothing more satisfying than to watch all the dirt, oil and grime from your day wash away. I know I always enjoy that post-wash feeling!

Try: The History of Whoo Brightening Cleansing Foam

Let this modern day Snow-White-In-A-Bottle add that transparent glow to your skin with its exclusive 'Chilhyangpalbaeksan' and Mother Chrysanthemum extracts. It’ll help clear your complexion, reduce skin dullness, and of course, make you feel squeaky clean.

3. Toning

Lots of people skip this step as the practice may feel redundant - why slap some more cold, scented water on your face after you’ve already cleansed?

Well, we’ll tell you why! Toning actually controls excessive sebum and removes any bits of residue you may have missed out in the previous steps; basically reducing the chances of a breakout. Toners may also soothe inflamed skin while maintaining your skin’s pH balance.

Try: Innisfree’s Volcanic Pore Toner

Innisfree’s Volcanic Pore Toner promises your pores a good cleanup - keeping your skin unclogged and matte for hours afterward. Users have also reported that it has a firming and lifting effect, which is always fantastic!

4. Moisturising

Dry and patchy skin is never a good look. Any skincare veteran will tell you that you’re gonna need to moisturise, and moisturise often!

Skin that is hydrated looks plumper, fresher and healthier - so keep at it! Moisturising at least twice a day (before and after work) is recommended by most dermatologists. When you moisturise, your skin reflects light and makes you look more radiant.  

Try: SK-II Cellumination Deep Surge EX

This lightweight moisturiser whitens, hydrates and firms - if you're a girl on the go and don’t like heavy-duty moisturiser under your makeup, this is the moisturiser for you, as users report a smooth and un-oily application that doesn’t affect your final look.

5. Serum (and Eye Balm)

If you want to make that little extra effort for lasting effects, try a serum for that finishing touch. With high concentrations of game-changing ingredients, a few drops of a serum can, according to what you want to achieve, firm, tighten, moisturise and smoothen the texture of your skin. Look out for serums that tackle your personal skin needs.

Try: Skin & Lab’s Red Serum

Packed with delicious-sounding anti-oxidants like Blueberry, Raspberry, Pomegranate and Acai Berry, Red Serum promises to deliver greater skin elasticity, a smoother skin texture, and a balanced skin tone.

If you’re looking to tackle those dark circles you’ve been lamenting over, why not try an eye serum or balm as well?

Try: Elishacoy’s Skin Repairing Snail Eye Balm

Made from 8 patented plant ingredients, royal jelly, and snail extracts, this eye balm is bound to hide those fine lines, reduce those mini wrinkles, and brighten your eye area.

So there you have it!

If it’s feeling too much of a chore, remember - this is YOU time. Take your time and enjoy it - you’ll be glad you did it!