What Works Skin — Independent · Evidence-First · Ad-FreeIssue 014 · 20 April 2026 · Next: 04 Maywhatworksskin.com

Routine · AM · Reactive skin

P. 06 · ROUTINE

The minimum viable morning.

Three steps. No actives. Built for skin that flares at the sight of an INCI list.

— § 01

The steps.

  1. 01
    AM + PM

    Gentle cleanser

    Low-pH gel or syndet bar

    One cleanser, used twice daily. Buy a 250 mL pump and forget it for three months. Anything more than this is a hobby, not a routine.

  2. 02
    AM + PM

    Moisturiser with niacinamide

    Ceramide + niacinamide

    Niacinamide 4%, ceramides 3+1+6-II. Used after cleansing — twice. Picks up 80% of what people buy 12 products to chase.

    CeraVeTier A
    Moisturising Lotion

    Default

    La Roche-PosayTier A
    Toleriane Sensitive

    For reactive skin

  3. 03
    AM only

    Broad-spectrum SPF 50

    High UVA-PF, every day

    The single most evidence-supported anti-aging step you can take. UVA is everyday — through windows, in winter, on overcast days. Two finger-lengths.

    La Roche-PosayTier A
    UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid

    Reference UVA-PF

    Re'equilTier B
    Sheer Zinc SPF 50

    Sensitive / mineral