When it comes to skincare, finding the right routine can feel overwhelming. With so many options—cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and more—it’s hard to know where to start. At Skin by Lovely, we believe the foundation of great skin begins with three essentials: Vitamin C, sunscreen, and retinol. These pillars of skincare work together to protect, repair, and enhance your skin, helping it look and feel its best.

Let’s dive into why these essentials are so powerful and how to easily incorporate them into your routine.

1. Vitamin C

Topical Vitamin C slows down the aging process by protecting your skin against free radicals, which contribute to wrinkles and collagen breakdown. Regular use of a topical antioxidant like Vitamin C improves skin tone, texture, and overall brightness.

How to use: Apply in the morning to clean, dry skin as the first step after cleansing.

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2. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is arguably the most important product to use daily, rain or shine. Sun exposure is one of the main causes of collagen loss, leading to visible signs of aging like wrinkles and pigmentation. Around 80% of facial aging is attributed to sun exposure.

Using sunscreen protects existing collagen, minimizes the formation of sunspots, and enhances the results of injectable treatments.

How to use: Apply in the morning as the final step in your skincare routine before makeup.

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3. Retinol

Retinol, a form of Vitamin A, is a powerhouse ingredient for skin health. It boosts cellular turnover, clearing away old cells while promoting the formation of healthy new ones. It also stimulates collagen production, leading to fewer wrinkles, improved skin texture, and reduced congestion, acne, and sunspots.

How to use: Apply in the evening to clean, dry skin as the first step after cleansing.

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By incorporating these three essential products into your routine, you’ll build a strong foundation for healthier, more vibrant skin.

About Skin by Lovely™

Skin by Lovely specializes in FDA-approved, natural-looking, non-surgical, medical facial aesthetics and rejuvenation treatments. With locations in Santa Monica, CA; Portland, OR; Lake Oswego, OR; and Camas, WA, Skin by Lovely has been recognized as a Top 10 facial aesthetic practice in the United States by Allergan, the makers of Botox® and Juvederm®, and a Top 25 account for Galderma, the makers of Dysport® and Restylane®.

Convenient online scheduling is available for all three Skin by Lovely locations.