Disclosure :: This post is written by Dr. Katie Watson and sponsored by Ochsner Baton Rouge.
How to Build a Simple Skin Care Routine
When building a skin care routine, it is best to start with a simple approach. This helps minimize irritation to your skin and keeps your skin care costs down. It is also easier for 
busy moms to stick with a simple routine. This three-step approach will have you well on your way to healthy skin!
Cleanse
It is important to cleanse your skin in the morning before applying skincare products and in the evening before going to bed. A gentle, non-abrasive cleanser applied with your fingertips helps remove oil and debris and prevent clogged pores and breakouts. A medicated cleanser in the morning may be a good choice if you have very oily skin or are prone to acne or rosacea. For medicated cleansers, it is usually best to apply them and let them sit for about a minute before rinsing. It is best to limit face washing to twice a day and after sweating. It is also recommended that you avoid scrubbing the skin, which can cause irritation.
Moisturize
Apply a moisturizer while your skin is still damp. Moisturizer traps water in your skin, helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and brightens your complexion. If you have very dry skin, use a moisturizing cream. If you have normal or oily skin, try a moisturizing lotion.
Protect your skin
The most important part of a skin care routine is protecting your skin from the sun. Even if you don’t plan on spending a significant amount of time outside that day, the sun exposure from walking in and out of the car, home, work or school all adds up. Sunscreen is also the most important and least expensive step in an anti-aging skin care routine. Using a moisturizer with sunscreen is OK, as long as the product offers broad-spectrum coverage and has an SPF of 30 or higher. If you are going to be outside, you need to reapply every two hours.
Once you have established this simple skin care routine, you can make changes or additions to target your specific skin care concerns, such as acne, fine lines, or hyperpigmentation. A dermatologist can help you select specific products or prescribe medications to build on this routine.
Dr. Katie Watson was born and raised in Walker, Louisiana. She attended college at 
Louisiana College in Alexandria and graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelors of Science degree in biology and chemistry. Dr. Watson received her medical degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. Following this, she completed her internship at Louisiana State University Health – Baton Rouge in internal medicine. She then completed her dermatology residency at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. Dr. Watson sees patients of all ages and is committed to providing exceptional care.
