Skin streaming: the skincare routine you need

Fewer products, more health for your skin.

With so many skincare choices out there, it's hard to figure out what your skin really needs, right? We say: Less is more. That's what "skin streaming" is about, the popular skincare trend that has taken social media by storm. And with good reason.

Skin streaming is all about simplifying your skincare routine to the essential products beneficial for your skin. By sticking to fewer high-impact products, you'll avoid overloading your skin, reduce the risk of irritation from overuse, and strengthen your skin barrier over time.

So, how to start? Dermatologists recommend a simple skincare routine: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Think of it as a healthy foundation. As add-ons, you can power it up with targeted boosters, like a vitamin C antioxidant serum and retinol. In case you're in need of quality products, read on for our top recommendations and learn about the benefits.

Cleanser

Every good skincare routine starts with a cleanser. The best face cleansers go beyond just washing—they remove any dirt and excess oil from your face, leaving your skin fresh. They are mild, non-irritating, and keep the skin's natural moisture. The face cleanser you use should match your skin. For dry skin, creamy cleansers are your go-to option. Oily complexions love a gel formula, while sensitive skin craves gentle, fragrance-free options.

Washing your face morning and night helps clear away pore-clogging dirt and pollution. Face cleansers are the perfect first step to prepping your skin for the rest of your skincare routine, making your serums and moisturizers work even better.

Moisturizer

Keeping your skin hydrated is essential for a healthy complexion. And that's where face moisturizer comes in. Quality face moisturizers hydrate skin, lock in moisture, and help improve the skin's natural barrier. Moisturizers with SPF simplify your skincare routine by providing hydration and sun protection in one step.

Face moisturizers fight off dullness and aging, and even help balance oil (yes, oily skin needs moisture too). No matter your skin type, everyone needs to moisturize. Along with cleanser, moisturizer is the basis of any good skincare routine.

Sunscreen

If there's one thing you should have in your skincare routine, it's sunscreen. Sunscreen is your skin's BFF. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher protects your skin from the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays. These rays contribute to premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Sunscreen goes beyond sun protection. Regular sunscreen use can help maintain skin's elasticity. Many formulas offer additional benefits like redness reduction and hydration.

Vitamin C serum

For a morning boost, vitamin C serums are the real deal. Dermatologists recommend vitamin C as one of the best skincare ingredients. Working as an antioxidant, vitamin C has been clinically proven to protect your skin from UV rays and pollution, stimulate collagen production, prevent aging, brighten skin, and improve pigmentation.

Regular use of vitamin C serums benefits all skin types. If you have sensitive skin, though, start with a low concentration—under 10%—and build your way up slowly to see what works best for your skin.

Retinol serum

Dermatologists recommend retinol, too. This powerful ingredient, a form of vitamin A, effectively tackles aging, acne, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Retinol serum speeds up skin cell turnover, helping your skin ditch dead cells for fresh ones faster. It also boosts the production of collagen and elastin, known for keeping skin firm.

Retinol serums are most effective in the evening. Start with a low concentration to avoid irritation and let your skin adjust. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen since retinol makes skin sun-sensitive.