Step 1: Gather All Your Skincare Products
Start by collecting all your skincare products in one place.
Include items such as:
- Cleansers
- Toners
- Serums
- Moisturizers
- Sunscreens
- Face masks
- Exfoliants
- Eye creams
This gives you a clear idea of what you currently own.
Step 2: Check Expiration Dates
Look at each product’s expiration date or period-after-opening symbol.
Discard products that are expired or have noticeably changed in color, smell, or texture.
Pay particular attention to products that have been open for a long time.
Step 3: Group Similar Products Together
Organize products into categories.
For example:
Cleansing: Cleansers and makeup removers
Treatment: Serums, acne treatments, and exfoliants
Moisturizing: Moisturizers and facial oils
Protection: Sunscreens
Occasional care: Face masks and other treatments
Grouping products makes them easier to find when you need them.
Step 4: Arrange Products in Routine Order
You can organize your everyday products according to when you use them.
Morning
- Cleanser
- Treatment or serum
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
Evening
- Makeup or sunscreen remover
- Cleanser
- Treatment or serum
- Moisturizer
This arrangement can make your daily routine quicker and more consistent.
Step 5: Store Products Properly
Keep skincare products in a cool, dry place unless the manufacturer gives different storage instructions.
Avoid leaving products in direct sunlight or in places with excessive heat.
Some products, particularly certain vitamin C formulations, can be sensitive to light and air, so follow their specific storage instructions.
Step 6: Keep Frequently Used Products Accessible
Place the products you use every day somewhere convenient.
For example, you might keep your cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen together in an easily accessible area.
Less frequently used products, such as masks or occasional treatments, can be stored separately.
Step 7: Keep Products Clean and Hygienic
Keep containers closed when they are not being used.
Avoid touching creams with unwashed hands when possible. If a product comes with a spatula or pump, use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Regularly clean the area where you store your skincare products.
Step 8: Review Your Collection Regularly
Every few weeks or months, check your skincare collection.
Ask yourself:
- Is this product still within its recommended use period?
- Am I actually using it?
- Does it still suit my skin?
- Has its appearance or smell changed?
- Do I already have a similar product?
Removing products you no longer need can keep your collection simple and manageable.