Democracy Dies in Darkness

The simple, science-backed routine for more youthful skin

No matter your age, taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be expensive

5 min
A photo illustration of a woman looking in the mirror at her skin. Pink sparkles are illustrated on top of the photo.
(Washington Post illustration; iStock)

Q: Can I keep my skin looking young and healthy without paying for expensive procedures?

A: After doing a deep dive of the medical literature, my advice is to follow a simple routine:

  • In the morning: Use a face cleanser, then apply a moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
  • At night: Cleanse your face again, then apply a retinoid and your moisturizer.

The brand doesn’t necessarily matter. Chose what works for your budget and skin type — such as sensitive, dry or oily.

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