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The ABC skincare routine method
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items The ABC method in skincare refers to a step-by-step approach that uses three main categories: A (Acids), B (Benzoyl Peroxide or BHA), and C (Vitamin C). It’s a method that targets different skin concerns through specific active ingredients. And the c...
Sections
3
A is for Acids
B is for Brightening
C is for Cleansing
A is for Acids
This step refers to using exfoliating acids like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), which help to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture. These acids prepare your skin to better absorb the next steps of y...
For those with oily or acne-prone skin, salicylic acid (BHA) is great for deep cleaning pores. This product helps with acne, blackheads, and texture, and it's non-drying.
SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant | Paula's Choice
This serum combines glycolic acid with lactic acid and salicylic acid, providing a blend of AHA and BHA for a multi-pronged exfoliating effect. It's a good pick for all skin types looking to boost radiance and smoothness.
T.L.C. Framboos™ Glycolic Night Serum | - Drunk Elephant
This is a milder AHA option, perfect for those with more sensitive skin or beginners to exfoliation. It also includes hyaluronic acid to help keep the skin hydrated.
Lactic Acid 10% + HA | The Ordinary
This is a higher-end option that uses lactic acid to exfoliate and brighten the skin, while also helping to reduce hyperpigmentation. It’s very effective for boosting skin’s luminosity and texture.
Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment
A cult favorite, this toner uses glycolic acid (an AHA) to exfoliate the skin, leaving it smoother and more radiant. It’s a good option for those looking to start incorporating acids into their routine.
Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner | The Ordinary
B is for Brightening
When we talk about the "B" in the ABC skincare method, it often refers to Brightening or Brighteners, which focus on evening skin tone, reducing hyperpigmentation, and boosting overall radiance.
A classic and highly effective vitamin C serum that provides antioxidant protection while brightening the complexion. It helps with pigmentation, fine lines, and gives the skin a healthy glow.
Vitamin C Serums
Niacinamide is great for brightening and reducing the appearance of dark spots and redness. This booster is highly concentrated, so you can mix it with your moisturizer or serum for an extra glow.
10% Niacinamide Serum Booster + Vitamin B5 - Paula's Choice
Alpha arbutin is known for its ability to reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation without being as irritating as some other brightening agents. This serum targets uneven skin tone and dark spots with minimal risk of irritation.
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
This serum combines licorice extract with hydroquinone and glycolic acid to brighten dark spots and improve skin tone, making it a powerful choice for hyperpigmentation.
Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum for Face | Murad Skincare
Tranexamic acid is becoming a favorite for those looking to target melasma and dark spots. This serum can brighten the skin while addressing stubborn pigmentation issues.
Tranexamic Acid Hyperpigmentation Treatment - The INKEY List - Sephora
This brightening serum is packed with stable vitamin C, which helps to even out skin tone, fade dark spots, and reduce the appearance of fine lines, offering antioxidant protection and boosting radiance for a glowing complexion.
C-Glow - Geek & Gorgeous US
This oil-based serum is a potent form of vitamin C that penetrates deeply into the skin to fight signs of aging, boost radiance, and protect against environmental damage. It nourishes while visibly brightening and improving skin texture.
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F
A multi-functional emulsion that combines vitamin C with ferulic acid and vitamin E to deliver antioxidant protection, repair damaged skin, and brighten your skin tone. This emulsion helps reduce signs of aging while enhancing the skin’s natural radi...
Intensive Vitamin C Treatment I Tetramid C.E.F I Theramid
C is for Cleansing
When we're focusing on the C in the ABC skincare method, it generally refers to Cleansing, the step that removes dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin.
A gentle, non-foaming cleanser that’s perfect for dry or sensitive skin. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to cleanse without stripping moisture.
Hydrating Facial Cleanser: Skin Refresh
Ideal for sensitive skin, this creamy formula helps remove makeup and impurities while maintaining your skin's natural barrier.
Toleriane Face Products for Sensitive Skin - La Roche-Posay
A cult favorite, this gel cleanser gently exfoliates with amino acids and removes makeup while leaving skin feeling soft and balanced.
Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash - Cleansers - Fresh
A luxurious, creamy cleanser with rice powder and hyaluronic acid that leaves skin nourished and hydrated without feeling tight.
The Rice Wash Soft Cream Cleanser - Tatcha
A hydrating gel formula that’s perfect for oily or combination skin, providing a refreshing clean without stripping natural oils.
Hydro Boost Gel Cleanser for Hydration - Neutrogena
A gentle, fragrance-free gel cleanser that effectively cleanses the skin without leaving it feeling tight or dry. It’s perfect as it hydrates while thoroughly removing impurities, allowing the skin to better absorb subsequent treatments.
Beste™ No. 9 Jelly Cleanser | Gentle Daily Face Cleanser - Drunk Elephant
This is a soothing cleanser that’s great for sensitive skin, offering deep hydration while cleansing. It’s ideal for prepping your skin for vitamin C products and helping maintain moisture balance before moving on to serums or treatments.
Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser - La Roche-Posay