Good skin, makeup and hair rarely come from one miracle product. They come from a few simple habits done consistently. This guide covers the basics dermatologists recommend, then links to our detailed guides on skincare, makeup, hair and nails.
A simple daily routine
| When | Skin | Hair and makeup |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Gentle cleanser, moisturizer, broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ | Light makeup if you like, applied with clean brushes |
| Evening | Remove all makeup, including eye makeup; cleanse; moisturize | Brush hair gently; protect it from friction overnight if it tangles |
| Each wash day | — | Shampoo the scalp, condition the lengths or ends |
| Weekly | Check what your skin needs; avoid over-exfoliating | Wash makeup brushes and sponges |
Skincare
The three non-negotiables are gentle cleansing, moisturizing and daily sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Everything else is optional and depends on your skin.
- Build a routine: do you have a skincare routine?, the minimalist “skinimalism” routine and 7 simple skincare habits.
- Know your ingredients: skincare 101: when and how to use popular ingredients and 10 essential skincare products.
- Skin types and seasons: what to avoid with dry skin, winter skin care and keeping your skin safe from the sun.
- Avoid common mistakes: 4 beauty mistakes that can ruin your skin.
Makeup
- Start with good prep: prepping your skin before makeup and prepping for summer makeup.
- Everyday makeup, safely: is it bad to wear makeup every day?.
- Looks and color: makeup for a black dress, red lipstick shades for your complexion and makeup tips for round faces.
- Weddings: bridal makeup tips.
- Lashes and brows: before getting eyelash extensions, caring for lash extensions and how long permanent makeup lasts.
Hair
Dermatologists suggest shampooing your scalp rather than the full length of your hair, and using conditioner after every wash: on the ends for fine hair, and through the lengths for dry or curly hair.
- Everyday care: what hair conditioner does and hair care for different hair types.
- Oils and color: black castor oil vs castor oil, removing hair dye safely and neutralizing brassy tones.
- Styles and changes: tips for a perfect hairstyle, the big chop and choosing a wig.
Nails
- 12 types of manicures and making an at-home manicure last.
- how to do a French pedicure at home and caring for your feet after a pedicure.
Beauty safety basics
- Patch-test new products on a small area for a few days before using them on your face.
- Don’t share makeup or applicators, and replace mascara every few months.
- Stop using any product that stings, burns or causes a rash.
- See a board-certified dermatologist for persistent acne, hair loss, changing moles or skin conditions; beauty products can’t treat these.
Quick answers
What is the most important skincare step?
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher. It helps prevent sunburn, dark spots and early signs of aging.
How often should I wash my makeup brushes?
Every seven to ten days, with soap and water, according to dermatologists’ advice for acne-prone skin.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology, How to select a sunscreen; AAD, Tips for healthy hair; AAD, Makeup tips for acne-prone skin; U.S. FDA, Eye cosmetic safety.