How to Care For the Skin You're In

I'm often asked what the secret is to great skin and -- contrary to what you might think -- it's not rocket science. It starts with knowing your skin and using the right skincare products.

Genetics plays a huge role in how skin looks and feels, but other factors like diet, weather, and stress also affect skin on a daily basis. That's why it's important to know your skin and use common sense when caring for it. Rather than reaching blindly for the same products every day, learn how to be your own skincare expert and take charge of the skincare issues over which you do have control.

Start with these basics, which should always be a part of your daily routine:

Cleanser -- If you have a dry complexion, use a cream cleanser that moisturizes as it cleanses. Look for ingredients like Wheat Germ Oil -- which cleans without stripping -- and Glycerin -- which attracts moisture to skin's surface. Water-based gel cleansers with oil-fighting ingredients like Seaweed Extract are perfect for oily complexions. Ideally, you should have two cleansers -- one for days when skin is a bit oilier than normal or needs extra cleaning, and another for days when skin feels a bit drier. And whatever you do, never use body soap on your face. It'll strip skin and leave it feeling tight and dry.

Moisturizer -- This is the most important step in caring for skin. When skin isn't well moisturized, it looks dull, tired, and older than it really is. Try a lightweight moisturizing lotion if you have normal skin, and opt for a richer, hydrating cream
with ingredients like petrolatum, glycerin or shea butter when skin feels dry or sensitive. And yes, even oily skin benefits from moisturizer -- an oil-free formula that hydrates while it helps control overactive oil production.

Sunscreen -- You should wear SPF year-round, not just in the summer when you're at the beach. A lotion with SPF protection of 15 or 30 is key whenever you're outdoors, running errands, or going to work. Apply sunscreen before moisturizer and makeup. A timesaving tip: Moisturizer with sunscreen is just as effective for daily use.

Eye Cream -- The skin around the eyes is more delicate than the rest of your face and has special needs. Use eye cream first thing in the morning before you apply concealer. As you get older, try a richer formula with shea butter or beeswax for use at night.

Think of these as add-ons, for when skin has special needs:

Toner -- The newest formulas are alcohol-free and don't strip skin. If you have oily skin or wear a lot of makeup, a toner can clean away anything your cleanser has left behind.

Masks -- For an at-home spa treat, smooth on a mask once a week. Clay masks draw out dirt and impurities from pores. Hydrating masks with glycerin or essential oils add moisture back to skin and leave it feeling soft. Glycolic acid masks exfoliate skin and help unclog pores.

Serums -- These concentrated liquids are typically packed with vitamin C and other skin-nourishing nutrients that work to improve skin's appearance and help prevent visible signs of aging. Apply after cleansing, before moisturizer.

Balms -- I'm never without a balm. These super-rich moisturizers target dry patches of skin on face, hands, feet, and body. Look for thick, dense formulas with ingredients like Avocado extract and Shea Butter. For subtle glow, I warm some in my hands and pat on cheeks after applying all my makeup.

Exfoliators -- Designed to help slough off dead skin cells. Look for a scrub that's gentle and designed specifically for the face.