Editor-approved 5 step skincare routine for dewy, nourished skin

So, you’ve discovered your favourite beauty filter app to make yourself look beautiful on pictures, but that doesn’t mean you have to neglect your skin. We can’t hide behind filters forever, right?

We have put together a list of skincare dos and must-have products to help you get that glow.

1. Drinkwater: From reducing wrinkles, boosting skin elasticity, flushing out toxins, to preventing acne and maintaining a healthy pH (measurement of how acidic or alkaline a substance is) balance, water remains one of the most accessible and inexpensive method of maintaining a healthy and good-looking skin. Just how much, really depends on you, but experts agree that for adults, about eight glasses of water a day is good. If you can make it two litres a day, then you are doing great!

READ MORE | All you need to know about microneedling 

2. Cleanse: Our skins go through a lot daily – from exposure to the sun and toxins, to polluted air and make-up. Therefore, it’s important to cleanse our skin. Cleansing is a key step to having healthy looking skin. Daily facial cleansing removes every last trace of dirt, excess oil and unwanted skin cells from your face.

The common consensus is that no matter how hard-working the ingredients in your products are, you must always cleanse your skin for at least 60 seconds. So, take your time. Rub your fingers around your face for 60 seconds to allow the cleansing ingredients to clear any blockages and penetrate your skin, before you rinse with warm water.

Placecol Clean Start Facial Wash 150ml - R295 at Takealot

lelive Seatox - Marine Algae + Aloe Detoxifying Mask 50ml - R319 at Takealot

3. Tone: Toning is about your skin’s pH levels, and prepares your skin for the next step after cleansing – which is moisturising.

Dr Manjul Agarwal, senior dermatology consultant at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, says: “Atoner’s essential purpose is to correct the deficiencies or shortcomings of a cleanser, as well as supplement the effect of the moisturiser. So, to get the best out of your toner, you must know and understand your skin type, your type of cleanser, and its moisturising qualities.”

African Extracts Radiance Toner 150ml - R135 at Clicks

4. Moisturise: This should be obvious, but you would be amazed at how many people slap on make-up without first moisturising. In addition to alleviating dryness, a moisturiser also nourishes your skin. Again, though, you first need to understand your skin type. This will help you pick the best moisturiser for your needs.

Yearnskin Retinol Renew Serum - R550 at Yearnskin

Optiphi Moisture Control Light - R1 850 at Optiphi 

5. Treat: When it comes to producing collagen, vitamin C is your best bet. Collagen is an essential element in achieving healthier, youthful and firmer skin. But as the years go by, our natural collagen production decreases, which leads to sagging and wrinkled skin. Vitamin C-enhanced products encourage the production of collagen, which helps the skin to keep its elasticity and firmness.

READ MORE | Locked down: How to keep your dreadlocks in tip-top condition 

Innoxa ZoneProtect SPF 30 Sunscreen 50ml - R290 at Foschini Beauty