Short answer. Start with the products you already own, not a new one. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says dermatologists recommend two products every day: a mild cleanser and a sunscreen (AAD). If you want to add something, add one new product at a time so you can tell whether your skin tolerates it (AAD).
Add the products on your shelf to Oleah and you have one list of what you already own, including two products doing the same job.
Published 28 October 2026. Last updated 28 October 2026. Sources checked 24 October 2026. Written by the Oleah team from the sources listed below.
Do you need to buy something new to start a routine?
Often, no. The AAD says, about dry skin, that "The truth is you may already have the product(s) you need at home" (AAD). Look at your shelf before you shop.
What are the basic products?
A mild cleanser and a sunscreen, used every day. The AAD says dermatologists recommend these two daily, with a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum and water resistant (AAD). The same page says you may need a moisturiser in winter, when the air is dry (AAD).
| What you want to know | Look on your shelf for |
|---|---|
| Something to wash with | A mild cleanser, not a scrub |
| Something for dryness | A moisturiser, if your skin feels dry |
| Something for the morning | Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher |
For the full version, read what a simple skincare routine includes. For the morning step, read how sunscreen fits into a skincare routine.
What do dermatologists say about adding products?
"consistency matters more than a 10-step routine" Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, American Academy of Dermatology, 28 October 2025
For your routine, this means a few products you use every day come before a new one.
Why add only one new product at a time?
So you can tell what your skin is reacting to. The AAD quotes Dr. Garshick saying it is "always best to introduce one new product at a time to ensure your skin can tolerate it" (AAD). The AAD also says using several anti-aging products at the same time can irritate your skin (AAD).
How do you test a new product first?
The AAD suggests a test spot about the size of a quarter on the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow (AAD). It says to apply it twice a day for 7 to 10 days. If you get red, itchy or swollen skin, wash it off and do not use it again.
How do you start from what you own?
- Gather what you have. Put every face product you own in one place.
- Add the products on your shelf to Oleah. You have one list of what you already own, including two products doing the same job.
- Pick your mildest cleanser. Put scrubs aside.
- Pick one sunscreen. Use it every day, and a moisturiser if your skin feels dry.
- Choose one thing to change. Leave the rest of the routine as it is.
- Test it first. Use the AAD test spot before it goes on your face.
For where each product goes, read what order should you apply skincare.
If a product stings, burns or makes your skin red, wash it off and stop using it. If a doctor prescribed it, ask them first. If your skin stays sore, see a pharmacist or doctor. If it blisters or swells, see a doctor today. If your lips, tongue or throat swell, or you have trouble breathing, call emergency services now. Oleah is not a doctor and does not give medical advice.
How to check this on your own shelf
Oleah is an iPhone app for the skincare you already own. You add the products on your shelf or in your routine, and each morning you take a quick face scan that takes about 30 seconds. Oleah can flag products on your shelf that may not belong together. There is a check-in on day 3, a report on day 7 and a report on day 14. Oleah is not a doctor and does not give medical advice.
Download the free iPhone beta. Add the products on your shelf, then take a quick face scan in the morning.
Questions people ask
What is the first skincare product I should use? The AAD recommends a mild cleanser and a sunscreen every day. Start with the ones you already own.
How many skincare products should a beginner use? The AAD names two daily products, a mild cleanser and a sunscreen. Dr. Garshick says it is better to focus on fewer products used consistently.
Can I start two new skincare products at once? The AAD advice is one new product at a time, so you can tell whether your skin tolerates it.
How long should I test a new product? The AAD suggests a test spot twice a day for 7 to 10 days before using it on your face.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology, "A dermatologist's guide to skincare from growing up to glowing up", 28 October 2025. https://www.aad.org/news/dermatologist-guide-skincare. Accessed 24 October 2026.
- American Academy of Dermatology, "Dermatologist-recommended skin care for your 20s". https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/skin-care-in-your-20s. Accessed 24 October 2026.
- American Academy of Dermatology, "Dermatologists' top tips for relieving dry skin". https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/dermatologists-tips-relieve-dry-skin. Accessed 24 October 2026.
- American Academy of Dermatology, "How to maximize results from anti-aging skin care products". https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/maximize-anti-aging-products. Accessed 24 October 2026.
- American Academy of Dermatology, "How to test skin care products". https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/prevent-skin-problems/test-skin-care-products. Accessed 24 October 2026.
Oleah tracks how your skin looks. It is not a medical device. See a doctor about skin conditions.
