Even A Simple 4-Step Skin Care Routine Can Give You Clear Skin, According To Research

Face it. We swoon over anything Korean, but their 10-step beauty routine is a bit extra—plus, life gets in the way. How about just four steps to clear skin? We know you're down for that.

Unlike fashion trends that can defy logic (Print on print? Neon blazer + cycling shorts?), the order of this simple four-step skin care routine has a lot to do with the absorbent nature and thickness of the product you use: The lightest fluids go on your face first, as you work your way towards the thicker creams.

Step 1: Cleanse.

Cleansing your face strips away the layers of dirt and grime accumulated overnight or at day’s end. Before anything else, know your skin type—Dry? Sensitive? Oily? Combination? You’ll know you’re not using the right cleanser when your face feels anything but refreshed after cleansing. Cleansers come in light gel, cream, oil, or foam variants to suit different skin types.

Step 2: Tone skin, apply dermatologist-prescribed medicine (if any), or use a spot-brightening essence.

The fact that acne affects anyone from her puberty to her 40s is the reason most of us have been to the dermatologist at least once in our lives. Your derma can make the best analysis of your skin and recommend what’s needed to address the problem. Cleansing your face well gives a sterile surface for you to apply any prescribed creams or ointments. And if you’re one of the few without a nagging skin problem, well lucky you! We suggest an alcohol-free toner that removes any more traces of dirt.

Consider using a product like Olay White Radiance Light Perfecting Essence. It enhances the skin’s dewy radiant aura by improving skin tone and hydration. It also has niacinamide that helps reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone

Step 3: Use moisturizer.

If you want clear, young-looking skin, use moisturizer. “You can very easily reduce the appearance of wrinkles with the use of a moisturizer,” says New York-based dermatologist Michael Detmar in this study, where he refers to moisturizing as the “oldest trick the cosmetic industry has.” When it comes to moisturizers that not only keep skin feeling supple but also seep into the skin to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, try Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream. A hard-working product that softens the look of pores and wrinkles while improving texture and reducing hyperpigmentation is what you need to get the look you want from a simplified routine.

Step 4: Protect with sunscreen.

Sunscreen protection is a non-negotiable in skin care. One with SPF 30 is enough to block 97 percent of UVB rays, but not the more damaging UVA rays—so look for one that’s labeled “broad spectrum.”

These four daily steps can be enough for clear skin. Why spend time and money for six more? Just remember to get enough rest, manage your stress, and use multitasking skin care products regularly.

For more information on Olay's hard-working products, follow Olay on Facebook. Olay products are available in all major supermarkets, department stores, drug stores, and on Lazada.

ASC REFERENCE CODE: P165P05109O

Shop the items in this story!