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After nearly a year of religiously visiting a skin clinic for facial treatments, I think I’ve finally unlocked some of the best skincare secrets. And because gatekeeping is so last season, I’m here to spill everything I’ve learnt about keeping your skin looking its best. Whether you’re a skincare newbie or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you level up your routine!

1. Get a Facial Treatment Once a Month

Yes, that extraction facial. I know, I know—it hurts. But beauty is pain, right? Monthly facials deep-clean your pores, clear up congestion, and help smooth out bumps. Your skin will thank you.

2. Exfoliate Like You Mean It

Use a deep exfoliator 2-3 times a week. Trust me, if you’re not exfoliating, your expensive serums and moisturisers are just sitting on top of dead skin cells, doing absolutely nothing. Exfoliating helps your skincare products absorb better and work their magic.

3. Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable

If you’re not wearing sunscreen daily, you’re basically undoing all your skincare efforts. Even minimal sun exposure without protection can lead to premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. So, slather it on—rain or shine.

4. Retinol: Your Skin’s Best Friend

Retinol is the holy grail of skincare. It stimulates collagen production, reduces fine lines, and gives you that fresh, youthful glow. If you’re in your 20s, start now. Future you will be grateful when you hit your 30s. Just make sure to pair it with sunscreen if you wear it during the day (because retinol and sun exposure don’t mix). Personally, I stick to using it at night for the best results.

5. Facial Massage for That Glow

Massaging your face improves blood circulation, helps remove toxins, and brings more oxygen and nutrients to your skin. Plus, it’s an instant stress reliever! If you don’t know where to start, check out Karina_Na_More on Instagram for amazing facial massage techniques.

6. The Skincare Essentials

At the very least, your skincare routine should include:

• A gentle cleanser (because clean skin = happy skin)
• Moisturizer (hydration is key!)
• Sunscreen (did I mention it’s non-negotiable?)

If you want a full skincare breakdown, here’s a complete guide:

7. Don’t Neglect Your Neck

Your neck ages just as fast as your face. Whatever you apply to your face—serum, moisturiser, sunscreen—apply it to your neck, too.

8. Say Goodbye to Puffy Eyes

Woke up with under-eye bags? Freeze two spoons overnight and place them under your eyes in the morning. The cold helps constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness. It’s a game-changer.

9. Face Masks: Your Weekly Treat

Use a face mask at least once a week—up to three times if your skin is feeling extra needy. Hydrating, purifying, or brightening, there’s a mask for every skin concern.

10. Quality Skincare Over Cheap Skincare

Don’t be a cheapskate when it comes to skincare products. Skincare is an investment. The older you get, the more you’ll need to spend to maintain your skin. Start using high-quality products in your 20s so your future self doesn’t have regrets (or wrinkles).

11. Lock in Moisture Like a Pro

Moisturisers work best when your skin is still damp. After showering, apply lotion to lock in hydration and keep your skin baby-soft.

12. Eye Cream: A Must for Tired Eyes

Start using an eye cream or gel before bed to keep your under-eye area hydrated and prevent fine lines. Your future self will thank you.

13. Wash Your Face Twice a Day

Cleanse your face in the morning to remove bacteria that accumulated overnight and again before bed to wash away makeup, dirt, and pollution. Use lukewarm water—it’s gentler on the skin.

14. My Go-To Acne Fix

My aesthetic doctor recommended using Fucidin Antibiotic Ointment for acne, and it works wonders! If you struggle with breakouts, you can grab it at the pharmacy and give it a try.

Skincare Regrets and What I Wish I Had Done Sooner

If I could go back in time, I’d tell my younger self two things: Start using retinol and sunscreen earlier. I didn’t take them seriously until my 30s, and now I really wish I had. So if you’re in your 20s, take this as your sign—start today!

A Reminder: Your Skin Does Not Define You

Not everyone is blessed with flawless skin, and that’s okay. I’ve been through both good and bad skin phases, and I know how much breakouts can affect self-esteem. When I had severe acne, it crushed my confidence. However, I never gave up on finding solutions, and after 2 years of trial and error, I finally fixed my skin.

Taking care of your skin—and yourself in general—is important. But do it for you, not for anyone else. Not for men, not for social media, not for validation. You want to be able to look in the mirror and say,

“Damn, I look good today!”

Remember, perfection is overrated. We’re all different, and that’s what makes us beautiful. Focus on what you can control—treat your skin well, build healthy habits, and embrace what makes you unique. Some things can be changed (like acne or uneven skin tone), but others (like height or facial structure) are just part of who you are. Accept yourself fully, flaws and all. Self-awareness is the key to confidence, and confidence is what truly makes you glow. ❤

X, Hani