The skincare methods you thought were correct might all be wrong!

Cleansing is the foundation of skincare. However, many people make mistakes at this step. For cleanser selection, those with dry skin should opt for gentle, moisturizing products, such as amino acid-based cleansers, which provide moderate cleansing without stripping too much moisture. Those with oily skin can choose stronger non-"soap" cleansers, but even with stronger cleansing power, over-cleansing should be avoided. For example, using harsh cleansers multiple times a day can damage the skin's barrier function, causing the skin to produce more oil for self-protection. The correct approach is to wash your face twice daily—morning and night—using lukewarm water to wet the face, applying an appropriate amount of cleanser to your palms, lathering it into a rich foam, gently massaging the face (avoiding the eye area), and finally rinsing thoroughly with water.

After cleansing, it's time to use toner. Toner not only provides secondary cleansing but also replenishes moisture and balances the skin's pH. Pour an appropriate amount of toner onto a cotton pad and gently swipe it across the face and neck from the inside outward and upward to remove dead skin cells and impurities. If your skin feels particularly dry, you can also use the toner as a compress by soaking a cotton pad or sheet mask with toner and applying it to dry areas like the cheeks and forehead for 3–5 minutes. Note, however, that not all toners are suitable for compresses—those containing alcohol or other irritants should be avoided to prevent skin sensitivity.

Serums are packed with high concentrations of active skincare ingredients, making them a crucial step in skincare. Different ages and skin types have varying needs. For example, those aged 25 and above, whose skin may show early signs of aging, can opt for serums containing anti-aging ingredients like retinol or peptides. To use, dispense 2–3 drops of serum onto your palms, gently rub to warm it, then evenly apply it to the face, massaging with fingertips until fully absorbed. During massage, follow an upward motion from the chin along the cheeks and outward from the center to enhance absorption and provide a lifting effect. Note that serums cannot replace creams—they have small molecules and strong penetration but limited moisture-locking abilities.

Creams and lotions primarily function to lock in moisture and nutrients. Dry skin benefits from richer creams due to their thick texture and strong moisture-retention properties, while oily skin is better suited for lightweight lotions to avoid clogging pores. Apply an appropriate amount of cream or lotion to your fingertips, dot it on the forehead, cheeks, and chin, then gently press and massage until absorbed. For daytime use, opt for creams or lotions with SPF to provide additional sun protection.

Using skincare products correctly can maximize their effectiveness. Everyone's skin is different, so it's important to choose suitable products and apply them properly based on individual skin type and needs to maintain healthy, beautiful skin. Compare your current routine with these steps—see if there are areas for improvement—and start your skincare journey the right way today.