Experts argue that the most effective skincare routine isn’t necessarily the one with numerous steps, trendy brands, viral products, or TikTok popularity. Instead, it’s a regimen that’s simple enough to be followed religiously every day, according to Whitney Hovenic, a dual-board certified dermatologist and surgeon.
A common pitfall Dr. Hovenic encounters in her practice is patients adopting overly complex skincare regimens that they struggle to maintain. Her belief is that a basic routine encompassing cleansing, hydration, and SPF is essential for preserving skin health and developing long-lasting habits.
Dr. Hovenic shared her recommended three-step morning and evening routines with REAL SIMPLE, which consist of affordable essentials from beloved drugstore brands like CeraVe, Neutrogena, La Roche-Posay, and more, with prices starting as low as $9.
Whitney Hovenic is a dual-board certified dermatologist and a Mohs micrographic dermatologic surgeon at the Skin Cancer and Dermatology Institute in the Greater Reno-Tahoe area.
To start your day, Dr. Hovenic suggests using a gentle cleanser to remove overnight oils without irritating the skin. She advises looking for a fragrance- and sulfate-free formula to prepare the skin for the rest of the routine. For this purpose, she recommends the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, which is nonfoaming, packed with ceramides, and helps enhance the skin’s natural defenses. “For REAL SIMPLE readers who value straightforward solutions, this cleanser effectively does the job without causing dryness or irritation and won’t stretch your budget.”
For lightweight hydration without the heaviness, Dr. Hovenic suggests an oil-free moisturizer rich in hyaluronic acid for long-lasting moisture. She praises Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream for being lightweight, deeply hydrating, and easy to layer under sunscreen or makeup, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable daily moisturizer without the need for additional steps or costly formulas.
Every dermatologist agrees: Sun protection is a daily necessity to shield the skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays that can lead to sunburn, dark spots, visible aging, and even skin cancer. For the final morning step, Dr. Hovenic favors mineral sunscreens that easily absorb into the skin and don’t block pores.
Her top recommendation for patients is Spooge Dew Me Mineral All Screen. She describes it as a mineral-based formula, enhanced with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, that blends seamlessly, providing a subtle glow and light coverage to even out skin tone. “It offers protection, is lightweight, suitable for acne-prone skin, and makes adhering to a daily sunscreen routine easy, all at an accessible price.”
To ensure a fresh start each day, Dr. Hovenic advises thoroughly removing dirt, oil, SPF, and makeup before bedtime. She suggests using micellar water for gentle yet effective cleansing without the need for harsh scrubbing. Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water is her choice for a quick, gentle option that removes makeup and SPF in one step, making it perfect for busy evenings when a simple, stress-free routine is desired.
For overnight support of the skin’s natural defenses, Dr. Hovenic recommends a cleanser rich in moisture, containing ingredients like glycerin and ceramides. She often suggests La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser for its creamy, calming properties, which help maintain balance after a long day and are safe for combination or acne-prone skin.
To conclude your evening routine, Dr. Hovenic suggests a nourishing moisturizer to rejuvenate the skin overnight and maintain resilience throughout seasonal changes. She considers CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion to be an “affordable and effective” option, describing it as a multitasking product that restores hydration, strengthens the skin barrier, and contains calming ingredients like niacinamide.
Additional products:
– 40% Off: Tarte Shape Tape Concealer, $20 (was $32)
– Korean Skin Care Brand: Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream, $22 (was $27)
– Great on Dry Skin: Mario Badescu Caviar Day Cream, $14 (was $20)
– For Face, Neck, or Chest: ActivScience Triple Firming Neck Cream, $24 (was $30)
– Brightens Dark Spots: TruSkin Vitamin C Serum, $19 (was $22)
