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The Skincare Cheat Sheet: An Easy Step-by-Step Routine for Beginners

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Feeling overwhelmed by complicated skincare advice? You're in the right place. Welcome to The Skincare Cheat Sheet, your ultimate 2025 guide to building a simple yet effective skincare plan from scratch. We break down the absolute essentials for begi...
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Gentle Cleansers for a Fresh Start

The first and most essential step in any morning (AM) or evening (PM) skincare routine is cleansing. A good facial cleanser removes dirt, excess oil, makeup, and sunscreen without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. For a beginner, the best ...

 
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A non-foaming, lotion-like cleanser that's incredibly gentle and hydrating.
Amazon.com.au: Cerave Hydrating Cleanser
 
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Effectively cleanses and removes oil without being harsh.
La Roche Posay Anti-Acne Purifying Gel
 
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A classic, soap-free formula trusted by dermatologists for decades.
Amazon.com.au: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Morning (AM) Serums to Brighten & Protect

An optional but highly effective step in your morning routine is a treatment serum, and the gold standard for daytime is Vitamin C. A good beginner Vitamin C serum acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting your skin from environmental damage caused ...

 
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Formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, making it gentle and hydrating for beginners.
CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum 30ml
 
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A potent formula that targets fine lines and uneven skin tone.
La Roche-Posay Anti-Ageing Anti-Wrinkle Serum
 
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An accessible and popular choice for starting out with Vitamin C. 3
Garnier Skin Active Brightening Face Serum

Daily Moisturisers to Hydrate & Repair

Using a moisturiser every morning and night is a non-negotiable step for healthy skin. A daily face moisturiser works by hydrating your skin and, crucially, supporting your skin's natural barrier. This barrier locks in moisture and protects you from ...

 
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Although it says PM, this niacinamide-rich formula is lightweight enough for day and night use.
CeraVe Moisturizing Facial Lotion PM, 3 Ounce
 
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An intensely repairing balm that's excellent for dry, irritated spots, especially at night.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+ Repairing Balm
 
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An oil-free gel that provides intense hydration without feeling heavy or greasy.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF50 85ml

Sunscreens (SPF) for Essential Daily Protection

If you only do one thing for your skin in the morning, make it applying sunscreen. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is the most effective way to prevent premature aging, wrinkles, sun spots, and skin cancer. Australia's sun is harsh, s...

 
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Incredibly lightweight with very high UVA/UVB protection, a cult favourite in Australia.
La Roche Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid
 
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A fantastic, affordable option that provides a matte finish, great for oily skin.
Cancer Council Australia: FACE SPF
 
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A popular Japanese sunscreen known for its weightless, invisible finish on the skin.
Bioré KAO UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF
 
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Supergoop is fast becoming a popular sunscreen on the market and a must have for your daily routine
Supergoop

Evening (PM) Serums to Treat & Renew

Your evening routine is the perfect time to incorporate an optional treatment serum, as your skin goes into repair mode while you sleep. A night serum for beginners should target a specific concern like dehydration or texture. For universal hydration...

 
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A simple, effective, and budget-friendly serum for boosting skin moisture.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2 + B5 30ml
 
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A world-famous exfoliant that gently unclogs pores and smooths skin. Start by using it twice a week.
Paulas Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid
 
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Combines hyaluronic acid with ceramides to both hydrate and calm the skin.
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum 30ml