It means paying close attention to how your skin looks and feels each day. Instead of just following a strict routine, you check in. Is your skin tight and flaky? It might be asking for more moisture. Is it shiny and prone to breakouts? It might be telling you it’s too oily. Think of it like noticing you’re thirsty and having a glass of water. Your skin gives you signals, and your job is to notice them and respond with the right care.
Look for an over-the-counter “retinol” cream or serum. It’s gentler than prescription versions and perfect for starting out. Choose a product from a trusted brand you know. Many are now made for sensitive skin. Don’t feel pressured to buy the strongest one; a lower concentration used consistently will give you great results without the drama of bad irritation.
It’s all about the job! Your moisturizer is like a comforting drink of water that hydrates and seals in moisture. A serum is different—it’s a powerful treatment that goes on before your moisturizer. Because it’s so light, it sinks deep into your skin to deliver its protective antioxidants right where they’re needed most. You use them as a team: serum first to protect and repair, then moisturizer to hydrate and soften.
Your skin might feel tight, look a bit dull, and could even get oilier. Washing cleans off dirt and oil, but it can also strip some of your skin’s natural moisture. If you don’t add any back, your skin can get confused and overproduce oil to compensate. It can also become dehydrated, making fine lines more noticeable. Consistent moisturizing helps keep your skin’s balance, so it stays calm, comfortable, and glowing.