September 2026

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Skincare: what your products do and how they work.

Your skin is amazing.

It's your body's largest organ, shielding against solar radiation, physical damage, harmful substances, chemicals, and moisture loss. It also turns sunlight into vitamin D, allows you to touch and feel, and regulates your body temperature.

I could go on; the list is (almost) endless.

Protecting and managing skin health requires time, understanding, and care. Most people have some form of skin routine, whether they apply five products a day or one a week.

But what do these products do? How do they impact your skin, and what issues do they help solve?

What five popular products do for your skin

Navigating the skincare product landscape can be overwhelming, with each product claiming significant benefits. Here's a straightforward explanation of what five popular skincare products do for your skin:

Cleansers:

For clogged pores and acne

These are essential for removing dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin's surface. A good cleanser clears the way for different skincare products, allowing them to work more effectively without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Choosing the right cleanser involves finding one that effectively cleans without causing dryness or irritation.

Moisturizers:

For dryness and skin barrier damage

These products are crucial for all skin types to help hydrate and maintain the skin's moisture barrier. They prevent dryness, manage sensitivity, and can improve skin texture. Ingredients to look for include hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin, and ceramides, which help restore the skin's barrier.

Sunscreens:

For sunburn, sun damage, and premature ageing

Sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation, either by blocking, reflecting, or absorbing it. Regular use can prevent signs of ageing and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Modern sunscreens are designed to offer broad-spectrum protection without the unpleasant texture of past formulations, making them easier to incorporate into your daily routine.

Exfoliants:

For dullness and uneven texture

These products help to remove dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing healthier, brighter skin underneath. Chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, while physical exfoliants mechanically remove them. Exfoliating can improve skin texture and tone but should be done carefully to avoid over-exfoliation.

Serums:

For specific concerns like fine lines, dark spots, and dehydration

Serums are concentrated treatments that target specific skin concerns such as ageing, hydration, brightening, or calming. They contain active ingredients like vitamin C for brightening, retinol for ageing, and salicylic acid for acne. Serums can offer significant benefits due to their potent formulations but should be selected based on your unique skin needs.

Consider your skincare routine.

Understanding the purpose and benefits of these skincare products can help you tailor your routine to better suit your skin's needs, leading to healthier and more radiant skin.

Skincare is personal, and finding the right products requires patience and experimentation. With knowledge and care, you can develop a routine that supports your skin's health and appearance.

It is always a good idea to consult a professional before incorporating any product into your skincare routine and be wary of overpriced or overpromising products.

In another of our articles, ' Skincare doesn't have to be complicated ', we discussed getting acquainted with your skin, identifying issues, and starting a routine.

Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated

Skincare is often complicated and time-consuming. 

But it doesn’t have to be.

From magazines to social media and recommendations from friends - everyone has an opinion on skincare. 

Social media influencers often showcase complicated skincare routines, while celebrities discuss the latest treatment that transformed their skin. This may work for them, but that doesn’t mean you must use five products daily or spend a small fortune.

We have often found that using one or two products daily can drastically improve skin health and appearance.

But how do we work out which products we need and which ones we don’t?

First, you must understand your goal and align your routine to fulfil your ambitions.

Assess your skin goals.

We need to take a step back and consider our personal skin goals.

Do you want to reduce dry skin? Do you want to treat eczema? Do you want to feel fresh and invigorated?

Looking in a mirror and closely examining your face, focusing on the cheeks, neck, and around the eyes, can indicate what care to apply. This may change week to week or month to month, especially as the seasons change.

In addition to visual inspection, we should also consider how we feel and the sensation of our skin. Consider whether your skin feels clogged and greasy or makes you feel tired and uncomfortable—like you need a splash of cold water on your face.

By looking internally and focusing on how we feel about our skin, we better understand ourselves and what we need from skincare routines.

It often transpires that only one or two issues need solving.

Know which products to choose.

Once you have identified the issues you want to address, it’s time to choose the correct product.

We must go back to our skincare goals and remember them, careful not to overcomplicate things.

You might find that a simple moisturiser, combined with a soft daily cleanser, will be all you need to transform your skin and de-complicate your daily routine.

Some people may want to focus on specific skin conditions requiring a more considered approach.

Products with active ingredients may require your skin to build a tolerance, and overuse can cause more harm than good.

If you want to reduce the signs of ageing, for example, the active ingredient you should focus on is retinol/retinoids.

Upon inspection, you may find that you need to address hyperpigmentation and brightness, so you should start with products containing AHAs/BHAs and vitamin C.

If you want to address a combination of conditions, start by applying one product at a time, then two, and so on (depending on your goals).

As with all routines, discipline is key. Dedicate a portion of your morning or evening to looking after your skin, and be strict about which products you use. Always bring decision-making back to your goals, and don’t regress into old habits.

Over time, you will start to notice changes. Tracking how you and your skin feel can be a good idea. A daily or weekly diary will enable you to follow progress and empower you to make the right decisions.

Be kind to yourself.

Skin health can be tied to self-esteem and confidence in daily life, so invest the time to re-discover your skin and build convenient and effective routines—ensuring they solve the core issues you want to address.

Treating yourself is not always easy, and you may find that seeking out professional guidance is helpful. The chemist at your local pharmacy, for example, could provide a wealth of knowledge about products with active ingredients and how to apply them safely and effectively.