Some of us are two or four-step beauty fans but if you are getting to six and eight stages maybe it’s time to think about getting a simple skincare regime that does the job.

Google searches for something simpler but still effective are up 120%, so it’s clear people are getting a little lost with what they should be using.

More importantly, maybe they are using things they shouldn’t, wasting time, money and effort on a skincare regime that doesn’t deliver results. To find out exactly what we should be doing, we spoke to Cecilia Ross, Founder of Cecilia London, a top London facialist and skincare expert.

Skincare Regime

Cecilia believes it’s quality and not quantity when it comes to having a great skincare regime. She says ‘The solution should be simple- have a quick, fool-proof skincare routine that you can stick to every day.’

‘Many believe that to get results, you need to be doing an eight-step skincare routine and spend thousands on monthly treatments. However, I believe consistency is key and simplicity is the easiest way to remain consistent, just like when you start a new fitness goal,’ she adds.

Trends and Fads

We are surrounded by fads and trends every waking moment, but we should approach them with care and not include everything in our skincare regime, Cecilia says. ‘Fads and trends come and go and it’s easy to get swept up in them- but remember, what works for your friend’s skin won’t necessarily work for yours. By keeping your routine simple, it is much easier to work out which products are working for you and which are not.’

To help people get the simplest skincare regime and still have glowing skin, Cecilia has given us tips to whittle down all the information.

Cleansing

‘Cleansing your skin is so important, particularly in the evening,’ she says. ‘Cleaning off makeup, debris and dirt at the end of the day means your skin can breathe through the night and regulate oil production. There has been much debate about whether you should cleanse once, should you double cleanse, or should you not be cleansing at all.’

‘The answer is always simple- always cleanse in the evening, this can be a double cleanse if you are wearing makeup or if for your second cleanse you’re using a different product to treat a specific concern such as acne. In the morning, you don’t have to cleanse, unless you have extremely oily skin and therefore would benefit from a morning cleanse. Don’t wait for bedtime to cleanse your skin, why not do it as soon as you get home? It will feel like much less of a chore.’

Hydrate & Exfoliate

Cecilia explains how hydration is for everyone and all skin types in a good skincare regime. She says ‘Hyaluronic acid is perfect for deep hydration for all skin types, particularly if you find moisturiser too heavy for your skin. Remember- Slugging isn’t hydrating it’s breakout-inducing.’

And getting rid of dull dead skin cells, she recommends ‘Using an exfoliating acid or retinol is perfect for brightening and smoothing whilst also increasing cellular turnover. Which exfoliator you use depends on what your skin can tolerate. If retinol is too strong for your skin, then a salicylic acid will usually work well. Be sure to not use more than one exfoliator in your routine as you don’t want to break down your skin’s barrier. (Using an exfoliating scrub can also do this!)’

Year-Round Protection

SPF is all-important for younger-looking skin, Cecilia says ‘UVA/UVB protection is essential all year round in your skincare regime. It will protect your skin against harmful UV rays that penetrate through your skin even on a cloudy/rainy day. It also acts as extra protection against various weather extremes such as harsh winds.’

‘Most people find their skin is better in the summer, however, it is a short-term fix with long-term consequences such as pigmentation, rosacea/extreme sensitivity and dryness. To have good skin all year round, you must protect it all year round- good skin is made in the summer,’ she recommends.

Monthly Reboot

A simple skincare regime will benefit your skin, but so will some professional treatments. Cecilia says ‘A monthly facial is ideal for a deeper exfoliation, a chance to de-clog the pores and for intense hydration. Having a deeper treatment such as micro-needling or laser resurfacing gives your skin the boost it needs to look its best.’

‘As we age, our skin cell turnover slows down and we slowly lose collagen each year. A deeper treatment will keep that collagen boosted, slowing down the ageing process and keeping the skin looking healthy. It will also keep any skin concerns such as acne scarring or pigmentation at bay.’