1. Cleanser

Put quite simply, a cleanser is a face wash. You should be cleansing (face washing) in the morning and at time night. But not all cleansers are created equally.

Be careful of the men’s skincare brands that heavily push the ‘for men’ messaging. So many of these products are more about branding than results.

If it feels like your cleanser is stripping your skin, or leaving it feeling squeaky clean, stop using it!

Reprogram your brain to know that when your face feels tight, it’s a bad sign. You want a light cleanser, a cleanser that is going to clean and not strip.

2. Double Cleansing

Okay, I know what you’re thinking, yes, another cleansing step. But stick with me. Double cleansing has radically improved my skincare game.

Double cleansing is only needed at night and is used to remove oil, dirt, pollution, makeup and SPF.

Start with rubbing a little cleansing oil into your dry face – paying close attention around your nose, forehead and chin. Then lightly wash your face before applying your usual cleanser.

This double step routine will help to fully dissolve the dirt and oil on your skin.

Finish with your usual night cream or moisturiser.

3. Serum

Adding a serum to your morning routine can greatly improve your skincare.

A serum is applied after cleansing and before moisturising. Think of it as a shot of ingredients directly into your skin. Serums are where you can start to target specific skincare issues or problems – like wrinkles, hydration or brightening.

This is really where you can tweak and personalise your skincare routine.

4. Under Eye Cream

The most common cause of dark circles and eye bags is fatigue (tiredness). There are, however, other causes such as lifestyle choices, environmental factors, genetics and allergies.

There are various eye creams to help reduce the appearance of dark circles. A retinol (also known as vitamin A) cream can smooth out your skin tone and improve any collagen deficiency. Hyaluronic acid and creams containing antioxidants and Vitamin C have also been proven to help.

I like to keep my eye cream in the fridge. It’s a cooling treat to my under eyes every morning!

5. SPF

SPF is the final thing you should put on your skin in the morning.  SPFs aren’t just for summer, nor are they just nor are they for when you’re sunbathing. An SPF is needed every day! These really are the things that will most effectively keep your skin looking young and healthy.

A broad-spectrum (important to look for that) SPF will protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA is really the ageing. It’s what the sun does to alter the skin’s cells. UVB is more about the surface and what causes the skin to burn.

A good SPF doesn’t need to be expensive and it shouldn’t sit heavy on the skin. Your skin should still feel like it’s able to breathe, and shouldn’t feel greasy or oily.