Let’s take a moment to slow down. To breathe. To check in with ourselves and our skin, not because it’s a special day, but because we deserve it on any day.
Today, I want to talk about something that usually feels more complicated than it needs to be: building a skincare routine.
Not the kind with 10 steps, multiple tools, or a spreadsheet to track everything. Just you, your skin, and what it really needs to feel healthy, calm, and supported.
Skincare Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
These days, skincare can feel like a full-time hobby. Between trending ingredients, expensive “must-haves,” and overwhelming advice online, it’s easy to feel like you’re either doing too much or not enough.
But here’s what I’ve learned, especially after becoming a mum, skincare should never be stressful.
It’s not about doing the most. It’s about doing what makes sense for you.
If you’re here because you want a routine that fits into your life (not one that takes it over), you’re in the right place.
Why Your Skin Might Be Struggling Right Now
Your skin is your largest organ. It’s also your first line of defence against the world. And at the heart of all healthy skin? A strong, supported skin barrier.
According to Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, your barrier is made up of multiple layers that work together to keep things balanced. When your barrier is functioning well, your skin feels hydrated, calm, and resilient.
When it’s not?
Things can get red, stingy, flaky, or irritated because moisture escapes and irritants sneak in.
I learned this the hard way postpartum. Sleep came first, skincare last—and suddenly, even the gentlest products made my skin burn. It was tight, sore, and dry. I didn’t know it was a damaged skin barrier at the time. I just knew something felt… off.
Signs your skin barrier might need support:
- Redness or blotchiness
- Tightness or dryness
- Flaking or rough patches
- Breakouts or general irritation
- Stinging when applying products
Okay, don’t worry, it’s not “bad” skin. It’s just skin asking for a little kindness.
What Skincare Isn’t
Let’s reframe the goal, shall we? Skincare isn’t about achieving flawless, airbrushed skin. And it’s not a fix-all for stress, sleep deprivation, or hormones.
Here’s what skincare is not:
- A competition or trend
- A promise of perfection
- One-size-fits-all
- A long, complicated checklist
Instead, think of skincare as support. A way to maintain your skin’s health, not chase impossible goals.
Research shows that overuse of products can disrupt your barrier. Gentle, minimal routines often work better, especially if your skin is irritated, reactive, or overwhelmed.
So, let’s get back to basics.
The Only 3 Products You Actually Need
A good skincare routine doesn’t have to be long. It just has to be consistent.
These three steps are the foundation of healthy skin. Everything else—serums, masks, toners, and fancy extras—is just confetti. Beautiful to have, but not essential.
If you can consistently show up for your skin with just these basics, you’ll start to see real results: a calmer complexion, fewer flare-ups, and a stronger, healthier skin barrier.
Start with a gentle cleanser. This is your reset button at the end of the day—washing away dirt, sweat, sunscreen, and any buildup without stripping your skin. Look for low-pH formulas (around 5.5 or under), and avoid harsh sulfates. Ingredients like glycerin, or panthenol – these are all great signs of a barrier-friendly formula.
Next, reach for a moisturiser that truly supports your skin. Its job is to hydrate and lock in moisture while helping your barrier repair and stay resilient. Ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and squalane are excellent for this. Choose a texture that suits your skin type—lighter for oily skin, richer for dry or sensitive skin. The best moisturiser is the one you’ll actually use every day.
Lastly, never skip your sunscreen. It’s your daily shield against UV damage, even when it’s cloudy or you’re indoors. Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is a must, and the formula should feel good on your skin so you’ll wear it consistently. Think of it as your skin’s best long-term investment, protecting all the progress your routine is helping you achieve.
That’s it. Simple, consistent care really can go a long way.
Your Everyday Skincare Reset
If your skin feels sensitive, stripped, or just not quite right—this is your sign to simplify.
Try this:
For the next 2–3 weeks, go back to basics.
Just cleanse, moisturise, and protect. Skip the actives. Skip the serums. Skip the pressure. Give your skin time to breathe. To heal. To reset.
You can always add more later. But you might be surprised how far less but better can take you.
And yes—I’ll be doing it right alongside you.
Skincare is just one way to come home to yourself.
It’s not about fixing your skin—it’s about listening to it, supporting it, and treating it with the kindness it deserves.
If you’re starting fresh with the basics, I’d love to know how it goes. Message me anytime or leave a little note in the comments.
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