If you are unsure about what TikTok has been telling you about serums and toners, here is what is recommended and how to apply it.  

Skincare and makeup are two of the most popular trends right now. Whether Drunk Elephant or a brand like The Ordinary, teenagers are unsure of what to use and how to use it. They do not know whether a particular product is good for their skin type, or if it will cause them to break out. As such, it is important to understand how-to apply skincare correctly.

First, find a face wash. Whether a gentle cleanser from CeraVe or La Roche-Posay, keep it clean and simple. Use a clean towel to dry the face after washing to avoid the spread of nasty bacteria onto the clean skin. Brands like Youth to The People are more pricey and aesthetically pleasing, while CeraVe is affordable and simple. Stay clear from scented products, anything that claims its “exfoliating,” etc. 

Second, a good toner is a plus. Toner is a product that helps to protect the skin barrier and balance the pH of the skin after washing it. Apply it with a cotton round and all over the face, though take care to avoid the eyes. Toner is not essential, but is recommended for people who have acne scarring or random breakouts. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid toner is going viral on social media because of how versatile it is; the product can be used on one’s face, underarms, scalp, etc. 

Next, are serums. Serums are not – in any way – necessary, but are worth considering. The Ordinary is a super clean brand that makes all kinds of skin serums, their most popular ones being their Niacinamide, which helps with acne-prone skin and will support brightening and smoothness. The brand has also recently come out with the soothing and barrier support serum, which helps rebuild the skin barrier and reduce redness. For those who have dry skin, using Hyaluronic acid will help restore moisture in the face and give that “glowy” effect that is trending right now. 

Lastly, a good moisturizer is absolutely important. Moisturizer varies from thin to thick, from gel or creamy. It can be confusing trying to figure out which is best for a particular skin type.

To keep it basic, the CeraVe moisturizing cream is clean and simple: it gets the job done and does it well. For those whose skin is sensitive, this product will be perfect, as it is good for every skin type.

However, those who struggle with dry skin should veer toward a thicker moisturizer, such as Byoma’s Rich Cream, especially if “affordable” is key.

Those who want to spend a pretty penny on skincare might consider investing in the Drunk Elephant peptide moisturizers.

And if the skin is on the oily side, try the Byoma gel cream or the Cetaphil thin moisturizer. These are for daytime, but the Cetaphil PM moisturizer is a good variation for all skin types as well. 

Of course, there are many more products that could be added into the self-care routine if needed, like Aquaphor or Vaseline, Chapstick, and many more. This how-to is meant to provide a step-by-step baseline for those struggling with acne, or who just want to better their daily skincare routines.