Starting a skincare routine can feel like a daunting task, especially if you’ve never paid much attention to products or techniques before. However, it’s never too late to take control of your skin’s health! At 22, you’re in the perfect position to establish a routine that will keep your skin looking clear, youthful, and healthy for years to come while addressing specific concerns like pores, acne scars, and aging prevention. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to build a beginner-friendly skincare routine that works for you.

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Why Start Skincare Now?

Skincare is as much about prevention as it is about treatment. By starting in your 20s, you’re setting the stage for long-term healthy skin. Here are a few reasons why establishing a routine now is crucial:

• Wrinkle Prevention – Collagen and elasticity start to decline in your mid-20s, so early intervention with hydrating and anti-aging products can delay visible signs of aging.
• Addressing Scars – Acne scars and uneven skin texture can become more noticeable over time. Consistent care helps smooth and heal skin.
• Overall Confidence – Clear, healthy skin plays a huge role in how you feel about yourself. A glowing complexion makes a great first impression and boosts self-esteem.

The good news? You don’t need a 10-step routine to achieve great results. Tailoring a few key products to your skin’s needs can do wonders.

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Building Your Skincare Routine

Here’s an easy-to-follow, beginner-friendly routine that focuses on hydration, protection, and treatment. It’s designed to be effective without overloading your skin.

Step 1. Cleansing (AM & PM)

Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine. It removes oil, dirt, and sweat, which is essential for keeping pores clear and preventing breakouts.

Recommendation:
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

• Key Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid.
• Benefits: Gently cleans without stripping moisture, repairs the skin’s barrier.
• Texture: Creamy, non-foaming.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Hydrating and non-drying formula that works for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

How to Use:

• Wet your face with lukewarm water.
• Massage cleanser gently onto damp skin in circular motions.
• Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel.

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Step 2. Sunscreen (AM)

Sunscreen is non-negotiable if you’re serious about preventing wrinkles and dark spots. UV exposure is the leading cause of premature skin aging, so regular sunscreen use is key.

Recommendation:
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ PA++++

• Key Ingredients: Rice extract, niacinamide.
• Benefits: Protects against UV rays while hydrating and soothing sensitive skin.
• Texture: Lightweight, applies smoothly without stickiness.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Affordable, non-comedogenic, and blends easily into any skin tone.

How to Use:

• Apply generously to your face (and neck!) as the last step in your morning routine.
• Reapply every 2–3 hours if exposed to sunlight.

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Step 3. Moisturizing (AM & PM)

Hydration is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and health. A good moisturizer seals in hydration and strengthens your protective barrier.

Recommendation:
Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream

• Key Ingredients: Urea, ceramides, natural moisturizing factors.
• Benefits: Deeply hydrates while repairing dry skin.
• Texture: Lightweight cream.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Clinically proven hydration for all skin types.

How to Use:

• After cleansing (and after treatment products at night), smooth over your face and neck.

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Step 4. Exfoliation (2–3 times Weekly, PM Only)

Gentle exfoliation can help minimize the appearance of pores and acne scars. Opt for a chemical exfoliant to avoid irritation.

Recommendation:
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

• Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, aloe vera, ginseng root extract.
• Benefits: Removes dead skin cells, smooths texture, and brightens skin.
• Texture: Lightweight, water-like.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Budget-friendly and effective for most skin types.

How to Use:

• Apply with a cotton pad at night after cleansing. Avoid overuse and follow up with a moisturizer.

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Step 5. Targeted Treatment (PM)

Acne scars and fine lines require powerful active ingredients to repair and renew the skin over time.

For Pores & Scars:
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

• Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, zinc PCA.
• Benefits: Reduces oil production, minimizes pore size, improves uneven skin tone.
• Texture: Lightweight serum.

For Wrinkle Prevention:
The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane

• Key Ingredients: Retinol, squalane.
• Benefits: Stimulates collagen production to prevent fine lines, refines skin texture.
• Texture: Oil-based serum.

How to Use:

• Use niacinamide in the evening after cleansing and before moisturizing.
• Introduce retinol slowly (start with 2x per week) and apply over clean, dry skin before moisturizer.

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Comparison Table

Product Name	Key Ingredients	Benefits	Texture	For Sensitive Skin?
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser	Ceramides, hyaluronic acid	Cleanses, locks in moisture	Creamy, non-foaming	Yes
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun	Niacinamide, rice extract	UV protection, hydrates, brightens	Lightweight cream	Yes
Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream	Urea, ceramides	Repairs, intensely hydrates	Lightweight cream	Yes
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner	Glycolic acid, aloe vera	Exfoliates, smooths skin texture	Watery	Yes (if used sparingly)
The Ordinary Niacinamide Serum	Niacinamide, zinc PCA	Reduces pore size, fades scars	Lightweight gel-like	Yes
The Ordinary Retinol in Squalane	Retinol, squalane	Prevents wrinkles, refines texture	Oil-based	Yes

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FAQs

1. Can I use all these products daily?

Yes, except for exfoliation and retinol, which should be introduced gradually to avoid irritation.

2. How long does skincare take to show results?

Hydration and smoother texture may appear within a week, while long-term improvements like fading scars or fine lines usually take 4–12 weeks.

3. Is sunscreen necessary even if I’m mostly indoors?

Absolutely! UV rays penetrate windows and cause damage that leads to aging, even indoors.

4. Should I skip products if my skin feels irritated?

Yes, simplify your routine and focus on hydration and calming products until your skin recovers.

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Final Thoughts

A skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective. By incorporating hydrating, nourishing, and protective ingredients, you’ll build a foundation for long-term healthy skin while addressing pores, scars, and aging prevention. Stick to consistent habits and remember: patience is key to skincare success.