The Beginner’s Guide to an Effective Skincare Routine
By Nurse Kiran
Before diving into the A.C.E.S. method, it’s helpful to understand what beginners are most often searching for. Clients usually want to know which skincare products they actually need, the correct order to apply them, and how to start retinol safely. Many also ask whether Vitamin C and retinol can be used together, how to build a routine without damaging their skin barrier, and which products are worth investing in first.
This guide answers all of these common questions within a simple, beginner-friendly framework.
The simple routine every provider recommends.
If you’re new to skincare, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the endless product shelves, complicated routines, and Tik Tok trends that come and go weekly (i.e. “Glass skin” by applying AHA/BHA with retinol… please don’t do that).
Ask any aesthetic provider and you’ll hear the same thing: your routine doesn’t need to be complicated to be effective. Great skin starts with the essentials—done consistently, backed by science, and tailored to support your skin barrier, and to make it even easier we often teach skin care beginners one simple formula:
Meet A.C.E.S.
The four non-negotiables for healthy, glowing, well-aging skin:
A — Vitamin A (Retinol)
C — Vitamin C (Antioxidant)
E — Emollient (Moisturizer)
S — SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
If you can remember A.C.E.S., you can build a routine that supports collagen, protects your skin, and slows down signs of aging—without confusion or overwhelming your skin.
Let’s break it down in a clean, step-by-step routine.
Step 1: Gentle Cleanser (AM & PM)
Before you apply anything, you need a clean, calm canvas. We cannot stress gentle cleansing enough because harsh stripping cleansers lead to irritation, sensitivity, and breakouts.
What to look for:
• pH-balanced
• Non-drying
• Fragrance-free if sensitive
Step 2: Vitamin C Serum (AM)
This is the “C” in A.C.E.S. and a must-have for beginners. Vitamin C protects your skin from daily free radicals all around us, brightens dullness, and helps even out dark spots.
Why we recommend it:
• Boosts collagen synthesis
• Helps correct pigmentation early
• Keeps skin bright and resilient
Step 3: Emollient (Moisturizer) (AM & PM)
Hydration is the foundation of a healthy barrier. Your moisturizer seals in hydration, strengthens the skin, and prevents irritation—especially when using active ingredients like retinol.
Choose based on skin type:
· Gel-based for oily
· Cream for dry
· Non-comedogenic for acne-prone
This is the “E” in A.C.E.S. and critical for skin comfort and glow.
Step 4: SPF (AM)
No one talking about skin health will let you skip this step.
SPF is your #1 anti-aging product—more effective than any cream or serum on the market.
Use:
· SPF 30+ minimum
· Broad spectrum
· 365 days a year
This is the “S” in A.C.E.S. and your daily insurance policy for your collagen.
Step 5: Vitamin A (Retinol or Retinoid) (PM)
This is the “A” in A.C.E.S. and the true game changer for beginners.
Retinol supports cell turnover, smooths texture, reduces acne, and preserves collagen.
Start slow:
· 2–3 nights a week
· Apply after moisturizer if sensitive
· Gradually increase frequency
· Do not apply at the same time as other actives (Vitamin C, AHA/BHA etc.)
Now that you know your A.C.E.S., building a routine becomes effortless. Here’s exactly how to put it into practice:
The Beginner Routine Using A.C.E.S.
AM
1. Cleanser
2. Vitamin C
3. Moisturizer (Emollient)
4. SPF
PM
1. Cleanser
2. Retinol (Vitamin A)
3. Moisturizer
____________________________________________________________________________
A great skincare routine doesn’t need to be overwhelming. The A.C.E.S. method keeps things simple, effective, and rooted in what we know works best. With these four essentials—Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Emollient, and SPF—you’re giving your skin the basics of what it needs to stay healthy, radiant, and strong for years to come.
Now that the foundation has been laid out, book a free consultation and let our team help you elevate your skin care routine for that year around glow.