What is essential for a proper skincare routine?

A proper skincare routine is fundamentally built on three key steps: cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. Cleansing is crucial as it removes dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin, preventing breakouts and promoting a healthy complexion. Toning helps to balance the skin's pH and can minimize the appearance of pores while adding an additional layer of cleansing. Moisturizing is essential for hydrating the skin, keeping it supple, and preventing dryness, which can lead to premature aging and other issues.

While exfoliating and masking can enhance a skincare routine and contribute to skin health, they are considered more specialized steps rather than the basic essentials. Hydrating and protection are important aspects of skincare as well, but they are encapsulated within the cleansing, toning, and moisturizing framework. Applying makeup does not form part of a skincare routine; rather, it's a cosmetic process that may be performed after the essential skincare steps have been taken.