Spoiler: It doesn’t need to be 10 steps long. Just effective.

At BAO, we’re all about simple, happy skincare. Whether your current routine is just a splash of water or you’re overwhelmed by choice, this guide is here to help you build a beginner-friendly skincare routine that actually works—without overcomplicating it

What is a skincare routine?

A skincare routine is simply a series of steps and products you use to care for your skin. It’s about consistency, not complexity. Think of it as your daily check-in with your skin—giving it what it needs to stay clean, hydrated, protected, and balanced.

Step 1: Know Your Skin Type

Before building your routine, find your skin type:

  1. Cleanse your face
  2. Wait 20 minutes with no products
  3. Observe how your skin feels:

Once you know your skin type, you’re ready to start building your routine.

The Core 4: Your Simple, Effective Skincare Routine

Every beginner skincare routine needs just four essentials:

1. Cleanser – AM & PM

Cleansing removes dirt, oil, and makeup to prevent breakouts and prep your skin for the rest of your products.

✔️ Try: Refreshing Face Wash – gentle, SLS-free and leaves skin soft and hydrated.

2. Exfoliant – 3 to 4x a week

Exfoliating removes dead skin cells to:

  • Brighten your complexion
  • Prevent blocked pores
  • Help products absorb better

✔️ Try: Radiance Face Scrub – packed with organic shea butter and jojoba grains, perfect for even the most sensitive skin.

3. Moisturiser – AM & PM

Hydration is key. Even oily skin needs it! Moisturisers:

  • Lock in hydration
  • Protect the skin barrier
  • Keep skin soft and smooth

✔️ Try: Recovery Face Cream – lightweight, balancing, and nourishing for all skin types.

Radiance Face Scrub can be used up to four times a week and it removes dulling dead skin cells, targets dehydration and smooths fine lines.

4. SPF – Every morning

This is non-negotiable. Sun exposure causes:

  • Premature ageing
  • Pigmentation
  • Dryness
  • Fine lines

✔️ Use SPF 30+ daily as the last step in your morning routine—even on cloudy days.

Optional Extras: Add Once You're Consistent

Once your core routine is established, you can explore targeted treatments based on your skin goals:

 Retinoids (Vitamin A)

  • Increases cell turnover
  • Reduces fine lines & wrinkles
  • Helps prevent breakouts

Start slowly and always pair with SPF.

Vitamin C

  • Brightens skin
  • Boosts radiance
  • Protects from environmental stressors

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

  • Balances oil production
  • Minimises pores
  • Smooths tone and texture

Morning Routine

  1. Cleanse – Refreshing Face Wash
  2. Mist – Hydrating Face Mist for hydration + glow
  3. Moisturise – Recovery Face Cream
  4. SPF – Don’t forget your lips too with Skin Saviour Balm

Evening Routine

  1. Double Cleanse – Balm or oil cleanser + Refreshing Face Wash
  2. Exfoliate – Radiance Face Scrub (3–4x/week)
  3. Mist – Hydrating Face Mist
  4. Mask – Recovery Face Mask (3–4x/week)
  5. Treatment – Nourish Overnight Mask or Restorative Beauty Oil depending on your skin type

The Golden Rule: Keep It Simple & Consistent

Start with the basics. Then slowly introduce extras based on your skin goals. Remember:

  • Results take 4–8 weeks (sometimes longer)
  • Don’t rush into a long routine overnight
  • Be kind and patient with your skin