Your No-Nonsense Skincare Routine for Every Skin Type

Let me guess. You’ve got a few half-used face washes, two random creams someone gifted you, and a sunscreen that’s… probably expired. But every time you open Instagram, someone’s raving about 7-step skincare  routine or some new active that sounds like it belongs in a chemistry lab.

Pause. Breathe.

You don’t need a suitcase of products or a pharmacy degree to take care of your skin. What you do need is a bit of understanding—of your skin, your lifestyle, and what works for you. And that’s exactly what we’re diving into today.

Whether you’re a college student in Pune, a corporate warrior in Bangalore, or a homemaker in Indore juggling ten things at once—this blog is for every Indian who wants fuss-free, effective skincare routine.

Let’s get into it, shall we?

First Things First: Know The Skin​

Before we throw around words like “serum” and “barrier repair,” let’s crack the basics. Knowing your skin type is like knowing your coffee order. Once you figure it out, life becomes a whole lot smoother.

The Main Skin Types

1. Normal Skin

Think of this as the “goldilocks zone” of skin—not too oily, not too dry. It feels soft, smooth, and balanced. Pores are usually small, and there aren’t many breakouts or dry patches.

What it feels like: Comfortable, no tightness or oiliness
 Care tip: Stick to a gentle routine—don’t overdo anything. You’re already in a good place.

Follow this blog post if you have normal skin.

2. Oily Skin

This one feels greasy, especially on the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). It often shines by midday like you’ve rubbed some oil on your face, and is more prone to pimples and blackheads.

 Analogy: It’s like your face is producing its own ghee!
 Care tip: Use gel-based cleansers and lightweight, oil-free moisturisers.

We have detailed guide on oily skincare routine .

3. Dry Skin

Dry skin often feels tight, rough, or flaky—especially after washing your face or during winter. It can get itchy and may look dull if not properly moisturised. This post is for you if you have dry skin.

 Analogy: Feels like your skin drank all its water and now it’s sulking.
 Care tip: Go for rich, creamy products that deeply hydrate and protect the skin barrier.

4. Combination Skin

Here, your skin is playing both sides—your forehead and nose might be oily, while your cheeks feel dry or normal. It’s the most common skin type, especially in Indian climates.

 Analogy: Like your skin can’t decide if it’s in Delhi summer or Shimla winter.
 Care tip: Use balancing products—gel cleanser, light moisturiser, and target oily zones if needed.

5. Sensitive Skin

This skin type is easily irritated. You might notice redness, itching, burning, or tiny bumps after trying new products or even changes in weather.

You can find our another post on skincare routine for sensitive skin.

 Analogy: Like your skin’s throwing a tantrum after every new product.
 Care tip: Stick to minimal, fragrance-free, calming products. Always patch test first.

How to Find Out Your Skin Type (No Fancy Tools Needed!)

Still confused whether your skin is dry, oily, or somewhere in between? Here’s a simple test you can do at home—no dermatologist or mirror selfie required.

Step-by-Step:

1. Wash your face with a mild, gentle cleanser—nothing with scrubs, acids, or heavy fragrance.

2. Pat dry gently with a soft towel.

3. Don’t apply anything—no cream, serum, oil, nothing at all.

4. Wait for 2 hours. Let your skin be in its natural state.

Now, check how your skin feels:

What You’ll Notice (and What It Means):

• Feels tight, rough, or stretched?
  ➤ Your skin is dry. It’s craving moisture like a parched gulab jamun.

• Looks shiny or greasy all over (especially on forehead, nose, and chin)?
  ➤ You’ve got oily skin—the kind that makes you want to blot your face by lunchtime.

• Forehead and nose feel oily, but cheeks feel dry or normal?
  ➤ That’s combination skin. Basically, your skin’s confused—it’s frying a samosa on your forehead while sipping chai in the desert on your cheeks!

Why This Works:

Letting your skin settle for 2 hours without any product gives you a clear picture of how it naturally behaves. Most people either over-cleanse or over-moisturise and miss what their skin actually needs.

The Core Trio: Cleanse, Moisturise, Protect

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by 10-step routines, snail mucin serums, and influencers layering products like they’re building a lasagna—relax. You don’t need to dive into skincare like it’s a full-time job. Especially not in India, where we’re already juggling work stress, pollution, spicy food breakouts, and three seasons in a day!

Let’s strip it down to the essentials—the three pillars that every skin type needs. This isn’t about trends. This is about keeping your skin clean, healthy, and protected—without emptying your wallet or your patience.

1️⃣ Cleanse – Because Your Skin Picks Up More Than Just Dirt

Every day, your face collects a layer of oil, sweat, pollution, bacteria, and leftover sunscreen or makeup. If you skip cleansing, you’re basically letting all that marinate on your skin overnight. Yuck, right?

But here’s the catch: Don’t overdo it. Scrubbing too hard or using harsh cleansers strips your skin of its natural oils. That’s like removing ghee from a paratha—it just doesn’t feel right anymore.

🧼 Pick your cleanser based on your skin type:

• Dry or sensitive? Go for creamy or lotion-based cleansers.

• Oily or acne-prone? Choose a gel-based or foaming cleanser.

• Combination? Use a mild foaming cleanser that doesn’t leave skin tight.

👉 Cleanse twice a day—once in the morning, once at night. That’s it. Don’t treat your face like a kitchen counter.

2️⃣ Moisturise – Yes, Even If You Have Oily Skin!

If I had a rupee for every time someone said, “I have oily skin, so I skip moisturiser,” I’d probably open a free skincare clinic.

Here’s the truth: All skin types need hydration. Even oily skin. In fact, skipping moisturiser can make your skin produce more oil to make up for the dryness. It’s a vicious circle.

💧 Choose your texture wisely:

• Oily skin: Light, water-based gel moisturiser

• Dry skin: Thick, creamy barrier-repair creams

• Combination skin: Balancing lotion-type moisturisers

• Sensitive skin: Fragrance-free, calming moisturisers with ingredients like aloe or calendula

👉 Apply right after washing your face when your skin is still slightly damp. That locks in moisture like sealing a pickle jar—fresh and protected!

Protect – Because Sunscreen is Not Just for Beach Vacations

Here comes the part that most people in India skip in their daily skincare routine—sunscreen. Whether it’s sunny, cloudy, raining, or you’re indoors—your skin is still getting hit by UV rays and blue light from screens.

And no, dusky or brown skin tones are not immune to sun damage. We tan, we get pigmentation, and yes—we age faster if we skip sunscreen.

What to look for:

• SPF 30 or above (for daily use)

• Broad-spectrum protection (blocks both UVA & UVB)

• Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)

Reapply every 3-4 hours if you’re out, sweating, or in front of a screen all day. Keep a travel-size in your bag like you keep Vicks or chewing gum—you’ll always need it!

If you’re just starting out, don’t fall into the trap of overcomplicating things. Master these three steps first. Once your skin is happy and balanced, then explore serums, masks, and exfoliants.

This trio—cleanse, moisturise, protect—is like dal, roti, sabzi. Basic, nourishing, and enough to keep you going strong every day.

Bonus Steps: Only If You’re Ready

So, you’ve got the basics covered—cleanse, moisturise, protect. Great start! Now, if your skin’s behaving well and you’re ready to take things up a notch (without overwhelming it), you can slowly add these bonus steps. Think of this as upgrading from plain dosa to masala dosa—still simple, just a bit more indulgent and rewarding.

A. Exfoliation: Remove the Dead Weight

Over time, dead skin cells build up on your face, making it look dull, rough, or uneven—like your face is wearing an old, faded dupatta. Exfoliation helps remove these dead cells so your real glow can come through.

There are two main types of exfoliants:

• Physical scrubs (granules or beads):
  These are the gritty ones. While they feel satisfying, they can be harsh—especially if you have acne or sensitive skin. Scrubbing hard can actually damage your skin barrier or cause micro-tears (tiny invisible cuts).

• Chemical exfoliants:
  These sound scary but are actually gentler and more effective. They use acids like:

  • AHA (Glycolic Acid): For dry or dull skin. It exfoliates the surface and brightens.

  • BHA (Salicylic Acid): For oily, acne-prone skin. It clears pores and reduces blackheads.

🗓️ Start slow—once a week is enough. Your face isn’t a burnt kadai, so don’t scrub it like one! And always moisturise afterward.

B. Serums: The Real MVPs (Most Valuable Products)

Once your skin is stable and you want to tackle specific concerns—like pigmentation, dryness, or fine lines—enter: serums. These are light, watery formulas that contain high concentrations of active ingredients. Basically, they go deeper and work harder than regular creams.

🧪 Think of serums like boosters—tiny but powerful, targeted, and effective.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet to choose the right one:

📌 Important tips:

• Always do a patch test—behind your ear or on your jawline—before applying to your full face.

• Don’t mix 4–5 serums at once—this isn’t a cocktail party! Start with one, see how your skin responds, then maybe add another later.

😌 C. Masks: Because You Deserve Some TLC

Masks aren’t a must, but they’re a lovely way to treat your skin and your mood. Perfect for a lazy Sunday or when your skin needs a little pick-me-up.

🧖‍♀️ Choose based on your skin’s mood:

• Clay masks: Best for oily, acne-prone skin. They soak up oil and detox your pores. Don’t leave them on till they crack—remove while it’s still slightly damp.

• Cream masks: Rich and hydrating. Great for dry, flaky skin. Leaves skin soft and plump.

• Detan masks: Ideal after sun exposure or outdoor events. Helps even out skin tone. (Psst… try our Sandalwood Magic Detan Soap for this.)

🗓️ Once or twice a week is enough. Don’t treat your skin like a full-time project—it needs space to breathe too.

 Dr Sufi’s Suggestion: 

These bonus steps aren’t mandatory, but they do help once your basics are sorted. Just don’t rush into everything at once—listen to your skin like you’d listen to a friend. When it’s irritated, soothe it. When it’s dull, brighten it. And when it’s happy—don’t poke it with new experiments!

Building Your Routine: One Step at a Time

Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. Instead of jumping into a full 10-step routine (which can backfire, especially for beginners), start small and consistent. The idea is to build habits that your skin can get used to and benefit from over time.

Morning Routine

1. Cleanser

   • Purpose: Removes overnight sweat, oil, and any leftover skincare.

   • What to use: A gentle, sulfate-free face wash suited to your skin type.

2. Moisturizer

   • Purpose: Keeps your skin hydrated and plump throughout the day.

   • Pro tip: Even oily skin needs moisturiser—go for a gel or lightweight formula.

3. SPF (Sunscreen)

   • Purpose: Shields your skin from UV damage, premature ageing, and pigmentation.

   • What to use: Minimum SPF 30, broad spectrum. No excuses—even if it’s cloudy.

   • Indian skin is prone to tanning and melasma, so don’t skip this step!

Night Routine

1. Cleanser

   • Purpose: Removes dirt, oil, sweat, and pollution from the day.

   • Double cleansing is ideal if you wore makeup or sunscreen.

2. Serum (Optional)

   • Purpose: Targets specific concerns like pigmentation, dryness, or acne.

   • Examples:

     • Vitamin C for brightness

     • Niacinamide for oil control

     • Retinol for anti-aging (PM only)

   • Note: Use only one serum at a time when starting out. Let your skin adjust.

3. Moisturiser

   • Purpose: Locks in hydration and supports skin repair overnight.

   • Night creams can be richer than daytime moisturisers.

Keep It Short. Keep It Real. Keep It Doable.

You don’t need a celebrity-style routine with 15 products. If your current routine has just 3 or 4 solid steps and you follow it regularly, you’re already doing better than most people who impulse-buy fancy products and forget to use them.

Consistency is more important than variety. Build your routine slowly, listen to your skin, and only add new products once your basic routine feels comfortable.

Sample Routines (Because We All Need a Cheat Sheet)

For Acne-Prone Skin

Why this matters: Acne-prone skin is sensitive, often oily, and reactive. The goal here is to gently control excess oil, soothe inflammation, and prevent clogged pores—without drying the skin out.

• Gel-based cleanser: Lightweight, non-stripping, and helps control oil production without aggravating acne.

• Niacinamide serum (PM): Niacinamide helps reduce inflammation, regulate sebum, and fade post-acne marks.

• Lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser: Hydrates without clogging pores—a key step to maintain barrier health.

• SPF 50 (gel-based): Essential, especially if you’re using active ingredients. Gel SPF suits oily/acne-prone skin as it’s non-greasy.

Why it works: Targets oil + inflammation without over-drying or triggering breakouts.

For Dry + Pigmented Skin

Why this matters: Dry skin lacks moisture and often looks dull. Pigmentation (like melasma or sunspots) needs antioxidant protection and brightening ingredients.

• Creamy cleanser: Helps retain moisture, unlike foaming cleansers that can strip dry skin.

• Vitamin C serum (AM): Brightens skin, evens tone, and protects against sun-induced pigmentation.

• Hyaluronic acid serum (PM): Boosts hydration by drawing water into the skin.

• Rich moisturiser: Seals in hydration, supports a healthy skin barrier.

• SPF 30+ daily: Pigmentation worsens with sun exposure—this is non-negotiable.

✅ Why it works: Combines deep hydration with ingredients that fight dullness and pigmentation.

For Working Professionals

Why this matters: Time is precious. You want something quick but effective—especially if you’re juggling meetings, commutes, or deadlines.

• 5-minute morning: Cleanser, Moisturiser, Sunscreen: Covers your basics. Clean face, hydrated skin, and sun protection. Simple and efficient.

• 10-minute night: Cleanser, Serum, Moisturiser: Slightly more relaxed routine with room for treatment serums like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid.

Why it works: Balances efficiency with essential care—without overloading your schedule.

For Beginners

Why this matters: New to skincare? It’s tempting to buy every trending product. But skincare is not a race—it’s a slow, thoughtful process.

• Don’t overbuy. Start with: Cleanser + Moisturiser + Sunscreen: These 3 are the backbone of any routine. Once your skin is stable, you can add more.

• Observe how your skin behaves for 2–4 weeks: Skin needs time to adjust. Don’t rush to judge products in just 2 days.

Why it works: Sets a strong foundation. Helps avoid confusion, breakouts, or irritation from too many new products at once.

Your Questions, Answered (FAQs)

Q1. Do I really need a separate night cream?
Not unless you’re using specific actives like retinol, peptides, or acids. A well-formulated, non-comedogenic moisturiser that hydrates and supports your barrier can work both AM and PM. That said, night creams are often richer and free of SPF, making them ideal if your skin needs extra nourishment.
Q2. When should I start using anti-aging products?
Late 20s to early 30s is a smart window. That’s when collagen levels start to dip, and signs like fine lines or dullness may begin. You don’t need a full anti-aging regimen—just introduce retinol slowly (twice a week at night), or use peptides, ceramides, and antioxidants like Vitamin C to delay signs of aging.
Q3. Is sunscreen necessary indoors?
Absolutely. UVA rays penetrate windows, and blue light from screens can worsen pigmentation and premature aging. Especially if you have melasma, dark spots, or post-acne marks, wearing sunscreen indoors protects your results. Aim for SPF 30 or higher—even if you’re chilling at home in your nightie!
Q4. Can I use the same moisturiser for face and body?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Body lotions are usually thicker, heavier, and may contain fragrance that can irritate facial skin. Facial moisturisers are designed to be gentler, absorb faster, and work with serums and actives. Use body lotion below the neck, and treat your face with the care it deserves.
Q5. I have oily skin. Do I still need moisturiser?
Yes, 100%! Oily skin can still be dehydrated. Skipping moisturiser often backfires—your skin starts producing even more oil to compensate. Choose a gel-based, non-comedogenic formula with ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid to hydrate without the shine.
Q6. Should I exfoliate daily?
Nope. Daily exfoliation can damage your skin barrier and cause redness, sensitivity, or breakouts. Start with once a week. If your skin tolerates it, increase to 2–3 times a week using mild chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid (for dry skin) or salicylic acid (for oily/acne-prone skin). Always moisturise after.
Q7. Can I layer multiple serums?
You can, but don’t go overboard. Stick to 1–2 serums per routine—ideally, one in the morning (like Vitamin C) and one at night (like hyaluronic acid or retinol). Mixing too many actives (especially acids + retinol) can irritate your skin. Less is more, unless you want your face to feel like a chemistry lab.
Q8. Are natural DIY ingredients like turmeric and besan safe for skin?
Not always. While they’ve been used in traditional Indian skincare, not all natural ingredients are safe for all skin types. Turmeric can cause staining and irritation. Lemon juice can burn. Use DIYs with caution—and don’t mix them randomly like you’re cooking dal. Patch test always!
Q9. How long does it take to see results from a skincare routine?
Be patient—skin isn’t a magic trick. It usually takes 4 to 8 weeks to see noticeable changes, especially with actives. Consistency is key. Track progress with photos, not just your mirror on bad skin days. And remember: improvement doesn’t mean perfection.
Q10. What’s the best skincare routine for Indian weather?
Adapt with the seasons:
Summer: Lightweight gel moisturiser, SPF 50, blotting sheets.
Monsoon: Minimal products, antifungal cleansers (if prone to acne), avoid heavy layers.
Winter: Thicker moisturisers, barrier creams, hydrating serums like hyaluronic acid.
Tailor your routine like you do your wardrobe—seasonally smart!

Final Thoughts from Dr. Sufi

Skincare isn’t a punishment. It’s not a vanity project. It’s self-respect.

You don’t need to follow trends or buy the costliest cream at the mall. You just need to pay attention to your skin, your climate, and your lifestyle.

Start simple. Be consistent. Give your products 3–6 weeks before deciding if they work. And when in doubt—ask someone who’s spent two decades in medicine and now formulates skincare for a living (that’s me!).