20 essential tips for leveling up your skincare game

Most gentle cleansers for the face aren't quite strong enough to remove heavy cosmetics. That's where the double cleansing method comes in. Use an oil-based product to melt makeup away from the skin, then cleanse away any leftover dirt and oil with a gentle, cream-based cleanser. 

Some skincare products maintain their shelf life a little longer if stored in the refrigerator, and there's nothing more refreshing than slathering nice, chilled moisturizer over freshly washed skin. Actives, like exfoliating acids, may also be more stable if stored in a cool, dark environment. 

Cotton balls can be rough on sensitive skin, particularly areas like around the eyes, and they're not so eco-friendly. Swap them out for reusable cotton pads that can be tossed into the washing machine after you've removed your mascara or applied your products. 

Makeup wipes are convenient, but they're not great for the skin. They can be complicit in clogging pores, and don't do a great job of removing all the dirt and oil and makeup that can accumulate on skin. If you must, use a makeup wipe and then a swipe of micellar water for a more thorough cleansing. 

Retinoids, like prescription tretinoin and retinol, are one of the few skincare ingredients with actual science to back up its claims of improving skin and delaying the aging process. Consider an over-the-counter retinol product, or visit a dermatologist for guidance on how to make the best decision for your skin. 

Sunscreen is another of the few skincare products that are clinically proven to minimize sun damage and prevent aging. Slather it on your face, hands, arms, and any other areas typically exposed to the sun every single day. Even if you're just staying indoors, your skin is being hit with a lot more light than you might think. 

Vitamin C has been shown in studies to brighten skin and improve skin tone, and it's an easy product to add to a simple routine. Score a vitamin C serum  — there are great drugstore and luxury products on the market — and store it in a dark place to ensure that the Vitamin C isn't degraded by exposure to light. 

Even if you think your skin is too oily, don't skimp on moisturizer. It sounds counter-intuitive, but skipping moisturizer causes the skin to produce even more oil. And now, there are plenty of oil-free moisturizers on the market that won't clog pores (look for "non-comedogenic" on the label) or cause acne. 

For some skincare obsessives, a product isn't working unless it's tingling or burning. But that isn't exactly how it works. If you find that a product is causing your skin to be sensitive, remove it from your routine or reduce how frequently it's used in your routine. Better yet, stick to gentle cleansers and exfoliants to avoid irritation from the jump. 

As tempting as it is sometimes to just collapse into bed, taking the time to wash your face every night before bed can make a huge difference in your skin. If you don't wear makeup, a simple splash with warm water and a swipe of toner could be enough — don't feel like you have to do a major routine every single night. 

Many "physical" exfoliators, like facial scrubs and brushes, can be overly harsh and abrasive to the skin. Instead consider chemical exfoliators or acidic products that gently exfoliate away dead skin, made with lactic acid or beta-hydroxy acid that are more gentle on the skin. 

It sounds cliche, but staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your skin. It helps keep skin moist and supple, and can even prevent your cuticles from being dry and flaky. 

Makeup brushes can harbor bacteria, thanks to the products that you use to apply them. Using a mixture of olive oil and dish soap, clean brushes thoroughly every couple of weeks to avoid transferring acne-causing bacteria to your face. 

Silk pillowcases are pricey, but they can help reduce friction on your skin while you sleep. They're also great for preventing damage to your hair, making them well worth the investment. 

Used between cleansers and other products like moisturizers, toners can sweep away excess dirt while providing a boost of moisture or a little gentle exfoliation. Avoid harsh toners made with alcohols or witch hazel if you've got sensitive skin. 

Whether it's dry, oily, or combination, knowing your skin type is the best way to choose products that will actually work for you. That's especially true for people with sensitive skin, who may struggle to find products that don't produce redness and irritation. 

Skincare products should be used in order of least thick to most thick, so make sure that you're applying toners and active exfoliants before you slather on moisturizer or facial oils that can prevent those products from penetrating deeply into the skin. 

It's exciting to score a new skincare product, but doing a spot test on your arm or neck can help prevent an adverse reaction to a product that doesn't work with your particular skin type. Before adding it into your routine, dab a bit of the product on the inside of your arm or underneath your chin to see if it causes any irritation. 

Expired skincare products are less effective and may break down over time, so it's best to make sure that the cleansers and creams you're using are fresh and new. A good rule of thumb is to not buy anything that you can't use within one year of purchase. 

Overly complicated skincare routines may be all the rage, but for some folks, the simple approach is best. As long as you're cleansing your skin, using sunscreen, and moisturizing, that's a solid start that can be adjusted later to address specific skincare needs like acne and anti-aging.