10 Expert Tips for Perfect Skin: A Practical Dermatological Guide

Skincare can be overwhelming with so much information available online. Which products are really necessary? How many steps should an ideal routine have? A renowned dermatologist shares her 10 expert tips for achieving radiant skin, debunking myths and simplifying daily care.

The Golden Rule: Listen to Your Skin

Before implementing any advice, the dermatologist emphasizes a fundamental rule: if your current routine works and your skin looks healthy, there's no need to change it. People with perfect skin should maintain their regimen, regardless of trends. Your skin is unique, and what works for you is what matters.

Tip #1: Skip Morning Cleansing

Contrary to popular belief, washing your face twice a day can be excessive for many people:

• A thorough evening cleanse is essential to remove makeup and pollutants
• In the morning, simply rinsing with water may be sufficient
• Over-cleansing can strip natural oils and trigger increased sebum production
• This method allows the skin to naturally balance itself

This approach is especially beneficial for normal to dry skin types, although those with very oily skin or severe acne might need two daily cleansings.

Tip #2: Abandon Physical Exfoliants

Exfoliants with granular particles can damage the skin:

• They cause micro-tears in the skin surface
• Can worsen inflammation and acne scarring
• Unnecessarily irritate the skin barrier

The expert recommends replacing them with chemical exfoliants, which offer similar benefits without mechanical damage.

Tip #3: Choose Exfoliating Acids According to Your Skin Type

Not all exfoliating acids serve the same purpose:

• BHA (salicylic acid): Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin; penetrates pores
• AHA (glycolic, lactic, mandelic acids): Better for anti-aging benefits and dry skin
  • Glycolic acid stimulates collagen production
  • Lactic acid is excellent for brightening skin
  • Mandelic acid is gentle for sensitive skin
• PHA (gluconolactone): The gentlest option for very sensitive skin

These acids gently dissolve surface dead cells, especially important in winter when skin tends to flake more.

Tip #4: Focus Your Serums on Your Main Concern

Serums should target your skin's biggest issue:

• Hyperpigmentation/dark spots
• Redness/flushing
• Texture issues
• Active acne

Identify your primary concern and concentrate your most potent (and usually most expensive) products on addressing that specific problem. The rest of your routine can focus on hydration and general maintenance.

Tip #5: Hydrate According to Your Skin Type and Environment

Hydration should be adapted to both your skin type and climate:

• In dry or cold environments, all skin types need more hydration (layering effect)
• In humid climates, even dry skin may require less product
• Oily skin in dry environments still needs hydration

A professional trick for dry skin in arid climates: apply a hydrating toner or essence, followed by a hydrating serum, then a moisturizing cream, and finally a light occlusive product to seal in moisture.

Tip #6: Limit Hyaluronic Acid in Your Routine

Although it's a popular ingredient, the dermatologist warns about excessive use of hyaluronic acid:

• Most products already contain some form of hyaluronic acid
• It's not necessary to have it in multiple steps of your routine
• In some people, especially with low molecular weights, it can cause mild irritation and redness
• If you notice persistent redness, consider reducing products with this ingredient

This doesn't mean avoiding it completely, but being aware of how many products in your routine contain it.

Tip #7: Apply Your Routine as Early as Possible When Home

A habit that maximizes the benefits of your products is performing your nighttime routine early:

• Do it immediately upon arriving home if you won't be going out again
• This allows active ingredients more time to work on your skin
• Prevents your products from ending up mostly on your pillow

This simple habit change can significantly increase the effectiveness of your routine.

Tip #8: Facial Products Work All Over the Body

Take advantage of your facial products to treat similar issues on the body:

• Products with retinol or tretinoin can be used on arms with keratosis pilaris
• Exfoliating acids on elbows, knees, and heels
• Hyperpigmentation treatments on hand spots or décolletage

The only caution is with retinoids on sensitive areas like neck and chest, where skin is thinner and more reactive.

Tip #9: Limit Your Morning Routine to 4 Steps Maximum

The morning routine should be efficient:

1. Cleansing (with water or gentle cleanser)
2. Active serum (antioxidant or for your main concern)
3. Moisturizer (can include a specific eye product)
4. Sunscreen

There's no need to complicate things more in the morning. A simple routine ensures consistency and is easier to maintain long-term.

Tip #10: Use Sunscreen Every Day, No Exceptions

The most important and non-negotiable advice:

• Apply sunscreen daily, regardless of weather or season
• Don't waste time checking the UV index
• Make it an automatic habit like brushing your teeth
• It's the best investment to protect the results of all your other products

The dermatologist emphasizes that this simple habit is the most crucial for preventing premature aging and long-term skin problems.

By following these expert tips and adapting them to your specific needs, you can simplify your facial care routine while maximizing results. Remember that consistency is key, and the best regimen is one you can maintain consistently.