The Best Anti-Aging Skincare Routine for Beginners (Morning & Night!) | Dr. Sam Ellis

[@krisbarry4950]

Thanks for this video and the reminder to keep it simple. I’m 47 and jumped into skin care last year with both feet and quickly became overwhelmed with all the potential active ingredients, and how to build a routine that didn’t have a million steps. Thanks again for all you share with us!

[@DrSamEllis]

Thank you for being here and for the kind words! Skincare can be overwhelming!

[@mochs62512]

Same! Im 43 and just starting to get into skincare and it is super overwhelming!

[@exdamariis]

I’ve never started an official skin care routine because of how overwhelming all the information out there is. Thank you for this simplicity🪽

[@melissagalech3649]

Since so many don't like the term anti-aging, I heard of this brilliant term called pro-aging but with the same thing in mind. Just realizing that aging is a privilege like you said. Love the video!

[@tammyh3518]

Ok for anyone who hasn't tried the Prequel Lucent C product you may want to seriously consider getting it, it's a fantastic product, the formulation is perfection. Also I didn't see the Gleanser mentioned in this video, this is another Prequel product that is amazing and the formula, I've never tried anything like it, Honestly I don't want to rinse it off, I love it that much. So luxurious, and my skin is so so soft after using it, wow! Thanks for all you do, and all your FREE advice:)

[@Clovelaurel]

I just ordered those and the body lotion. Can’t wait to try it!

[@nikkiwilliams3491]

Dr. Ellis I want to extend a BIG THANK YOU for the thoughtfully designed Prequel line. I have struggled with hormone changes recently and finding my regular routine products burn my skin all of a sudden and feeling at a loss. I am so happy I bought the products and I cannot tell you how much the barrier cream has healed my neck eczema and perimenopausal dry skin. The flare ups and burning are gone. The urea lotion and hypochlorous spray have also done wonders to clear my hormonal breakouts. And THANK YOU for the affordable Lucent-C and sunscreen! Love the brand focus on skin health and barrier repair with products that truly work and are super affordable. Really thankful! Keep up the good work!

[@fernr3837]

I really needed this video!! Thank you! I am 38 and just getting started - there is lots of information out there!

[@diopfifi4937]

You're skin and hair looks gorgeous 😍

[@Blanca7C]

Oh im so glad you made this video! I always thought you couldn't use a retinoid and vitamin c together!

[@Rosemchambers]

Don’t forget to add sunscreen to your ears. I wear my hair up a lot and they definitely get sun exposure. Thanks for another great video!!

[@lindalovessparkles16]

as always love your content! can’t wait for the next prequel launch

[@ashleegmitchell]

A good tip from Dr. Sam Bunting is to wash your face with two fingers (two on the right & two on the left). I've found that I'm more gentle and thorough when I do that.

[@SB_41]

I purchased the Prequel vitamin C and have been using it for two weeks. So far, I prefer this product over Timeless Vitamin C. I feel it is less irritating on my very dry mature skin.

[@yasdnil_]

For me personally I find taking rings and jewelry off(besides earrings) your rings can have a lot of bacteria on them and they can be abrasive on your skin surface.

[@DrSamEllis]

I think that’s totally a matter of personal preference! I’ve been washing my face with my rings on for over 20 years and no issues 🙂

[@Melissa-cy9se]

Thanks to you I now use vitamin c and retinoid along with my sunscreen and my skin is looking great! ✨ Appreciate all of the tips as always! Waiting patiently for Prequel to come out with a retinoid! 🤞🏻

[@mochs62512]

I am so happy i came across this video! As someone that is 43 and just getting into skincare, it is super overwhelming. "Influencers" make it seem like you need a 7-10 step routine, and it honestly made me want to throw in the towel. But i love how simple you kept it and actually was suprised by a few things (like just cleansing with water in the morning!) I actually ordered a vale set from First Aid Beauty yesterday which includes the ultra repair cream, their facial cleanser, skin radiance pads that are meant for exfoliation (which actually do not contain alcohol!) and a scrub for KP. I was going back and forth about whether to try their retinol and you completely sold me on it! They do also sell a vitamin C serum, but it has really bad reviews, so i may go for the Paulas Choice or Dermalogica.

[@Drshelleyharding]

This routine makes great sense.

[@caitj2473]

Thank you for your clear, concise and informative videos. I will be trying this first aid beauty retinol as I have very sensitive skin. Thanks !!!! 🙏🏻

[@winonafeldner6682]

Strap in this is a long on. I have sensitive dry skin. I am 30, female, olive tone skin, never struggled with acne in all my teen years. In the last 6 months(winter in dry environment) I started washing my face in the evening with cetephil gentle cleanser (for normal to dry) then applying cockind ceramide serum, and last gentle lotion(dry to normal). I do dry with a new clean towel. That went well. Here's where the problem started...first of all, always washed my hands. I started wearing sunscreen regularly everyday. Most chemical gave a rash... I have olive completion, so tinted mineral is best, I guess. Eucerin sensitive mineral face, looked nice but made the skin above my top lip have a dry flaky rash. I think it was the straight Zinc 24%. I treated with Hydrocortisone. I have really like Cetaphil Redness Relieving Daily Facial Moisterizer. It blends into my olive skin well. Feels nice and easy to reapply. In the evening I remove with gentle Micellar Cleansing Water and gentle clenser followed with ceremide serum and lotion. Since trying to wear spf lotion everyday I am breaking out with acne! I have several white heads and a few cystic, and even a stye.... I have had dry skin all my life how could I possibly over mostrize!?! Help me wear sunscreen! 😩

[@christinemack2153]

Thank you so much! First Aid Beauty has worked for me and like their exfoliating feel pads too.

[@memorydandaroy1618]

The first aid beauty moisturizer is so so fabulous for hands that are dry cracked and burning. This is the only moisturizer besides an ointment that does not burn the hands once they have been damaged. Due to over washing.

[@Charleston1027]

I recently tried the Gleanser and the Barrier Therapy moisturizer from Prequel. I absolutely love both of them! I’ve been using both of them daily. I’ve never found a vitamin C serum that my skin likes, but given how much I like what I’ve tried so far, I’ll definitely be giving the Lucent-C serum a try!

[@taraharvey5326]

I appreciate the tips for creating a simple anti-aging skincare routine. One thing that always stumps me is whether my AM routine needs to include a moisturizer, sunscreen, and tinted moisturizer, or if there's a way to simplify down to one or two products that fulfill my skin's needs. My skin is dry/combo (quite dry in winter), but also sensitive and acne-prone (despite being in my late 40s). I prefer wearing a tinted moisturizer, BB, or CC cream rather than foundation. But in the summer I worry that's not enough SPF if I'm not regularly replying. And in the winter the tinted moisturizers I've used typically don't hydrate my skin enough. Where I live, I don't get a lot of sun exposure in winter, but more in summer. What do you recommend? Maybe an AM winter routine that includes a good moisturizer followed by a tinted product with SPF, then in summer do a good sunscreen followed by a tinted moisturizer (i.e. double up on moisture in winter and SPF in summer)? What tinted moisturizers, BB, or CC creams would you recommend for mature, dry, acne-prone, sensitive skin? Thanks!

[@nunu9417_]

Btw i have oily skin and have also seen benefits in not using a cleanser in the morning! I think i might have been over cleansing my face and now, at least in winter, just water feels great!!

[@DrSamEllis]

So happy to hear that!!

[@rebeccasessions2696]

I find that when using vitamin C on my face, it causes breakouts within a day. Every. Single. Time. ☹️. But don’t seem to have any issues with my retinoids or glycolic products.

[@jayvanithakurgarcia9386]

Such an informative video! I love how you broke up up day and night routine with simple steps. I am incredibly inconsistent and makes perfect sense to have something to look forward to! Was wondering if you had any recommendation on applying these products around the eye area (specifically retinoid and vitamin C)? Thank you!

[@amymorgan7994]

When does prequel ship to Canada?!

[@debrathomas5795]

Hey Dr Sam Ellis…..what would you recommend a skin care routine for combination skin?

[@momatotomato]

Thank you so much! I have eczema and dry sensitive skin. It’s great to have a retinoid recommendation for my type of skin

[@crucitasquillace5072]

Love seeing what you use ❤

[@laly6980]

I LOVE THE RETINOL! WHEN IT COMES TO TAKE CARE.OF MY SKIN I DON'T HAVE A BUDGET 😊

[@vo1538]

How quickly can we introduce new steps into our routine? Would it be something like two weeks between each product? I am interested in now using both a vit C and ret as I get older, thank you for the video!

[@Clovelaurel]

Vit C AM and Retinol PM

[@vo1538]

@@Clovelaurel that’s not what I’m asking

[@chrisgraham3803]

Thank you for the video! I love your recommendations . I love your Prequel line of skincare!! ❤❤

[@user-fw5wb4rt2n]

I often have some kind of reaction to Vitamin C products. Any recommendations on how to apply it to prevent these kind of reactions?

[@opheliasgrace]

In the morning, I spray my face with your hypochlorus acid instead of washing or just water. Seems to be doing well.

[@corinnegunter3889]

Same! I love that spray she came out with for morning! I follow it with the prequel C serum and Scinic 50spf

[@GlowySweetFabulous]

OMG that's a great idea

[@courtneymatchett9501]

Is it ok to use the First Aid Beauty retinol if I’m breastfeeding? And if not, what would you recommend instead to help with fine lines and wrinkles? Thanks! This video was really helpful.

[@pamsinatra1596]

Is the old Ponds Cold cream still around and can it be used as the first cleanse?

[@sharonbrooks4256]

Fabulous thank you 😊

[@MrsMeganCore]

Great video! Is there much difference between using a moisturizer with an SPF or using a sunscreen as your moisturizer? I like the feel better of a moisturizer with SPF but wasn't sure if maybe actual sunscreen was better...

[@OliaKonJo]

I love Kehl's cream. Tried many others but keep going back to Kiehl's

[@sherrieschmidt6869]

Same!!

[@Karen-e1f]

You buy this where?

[@MelissaFreeman]

Dr Ellis, can you still get a tan with sunscreen on? Thank you

[@christenadkins]

Sam, how long do you wait between applying retinol and moisturizer? I’m worried I will rub the retinol places I don’t want it and cause irritation. Thanks in advance!

[@cheyennesmith7667]

any products you recommend for a budget queen?

[@juanitaclark1355]

I am 60yr old and have always washed, exfoliated and Moisturized my face but didnt know until recently about vit c, retinoidz or even a daily sunscreen. I added those as well as a peptide to my routine. How long do you give a product to know that its doung what its supposed to?

[@CapeCodBelle]

I have loved and used First Aid Beauty for years! Do you use all the featured products around your eyes? I only noticed the sunscreen application near your eyes. Your video came at a perfect time, because I need a simple skincare routine I can follow! I have dry rosacea prone skin, but too much moisture makes me break out. Hopefully, your recommendations will work well for me! Thank you!

[@carolinerosewood]

Dr Ellis- I’m a home health care provider and I’m in sun a lot in and out of the car. What do you recommend for sunscreen re-application over makeup ? I have not found a good solution yet

[@DrSamEllis]

I will definitely do a video on this, so stay tuned! But honestly, I would rely on a hat for when you’re in and out of the sun throughout the day, as I truly don’t know of a single sunscreen that feels good after the third or fourth time you reapply it 😅

[@tedoymisojos]

From First Aid beauty I prefered the FAB Ultra Repair Firming Collagen Cream, its simimilar to the regular Ultra Repair just a bit thinner. I found the regular one caused a bit of pore congestion for me and the collagen version didnt (I have acne prone, oily skin).

[@DrSamEllis]

I love that collagen cream too!

[@esmeralda20051]

Hi Dr. Ellis, I love all your tips! I have purchased your vitamins C and love it! I do have a question: Your eyelashes are beautiful. Do you use a serum, or are you just naturally blessed with them?

[@erikakronvold4211]

Thank you for all your reviews. 🙂👌🏽 If the tone do not fit, can I add Iron powder myself, made for cosmetic, to the sunscreen, so the color fits better? ( I always need a little Yellow) Mineral sunscreen

[@OliaKonJo]

I didn't like Purito spf cream. Too oily for me. I still love Beauty of Joseon spf

[@smalltowncasual4977]

The prequel vitamin C is so nice and lightweight. It goes on nice and smooth. How many pumps do you use?

[@DrSamEllis]

Thank you! I use 2 total for face and neck

[@deborah972]

Hi dr sam ellis really enjoyed this vlogs are wonderful 😅 xx

[@MayowaBabs-c7w]

Skincare goes a long way

[@JuliaReneeMooradian]

Thanks for the tips. As for wanting to get tan in summer can you with sunscreen everyday? Or does the benefit of flawless skin come at the cost of a tanned face?

[@emilym8943]

Can I use the cerave twice instead of the oil cleanser?

[@DrSamEllis]

Depends on what’s on your face that you’re trying to remove. I don’t think that cleanser alone would be enough (even if used twice) if someone is wearing makeup, for example.

[@hillkadash8869]

Does prequel work in black skin color

[@marymundy249]

Does the Dr own the brand prequel?

[@MatMat-qi2rd]

Very helpful 😊

[@tasplund3397]

Love your videos and such great info! I am 59..what do you think of Ozonated Olive oil, and castor oil in skin care routines?

[@DrSamEllis]

Oils can be used as moisturizers, but it’s not my personal preference because texturally I don’t like how oils feel on my skin. I would avoid use of oils in the morning because it may interfere with the efficacy of sunscreen.

[@gwasick]

Literally doing my morning skincare along with you - face cleanse, lucent-c, and a haruhuru sunscreen 🙌🙌

[@DrSamEllis]

🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@barbaramelady110]

Can YOU use vit C serum at night before the retinol serum?

[@vivianedenardo8266]

prequel is not available in Europe. when it will be possible??

[@sonyal3212]

Is alcohol in the Cerave cleanser a problem for your skin? I’ve heard that it is better to use the same brand for your skincare since they are created to work well together. Is that true?

[@sharonscott1776]

Can you please help me, my morning routine is: Timeless Vit c serum La Roche Posay Mela B serum La Roche Posay Double repair moisturizer Eye cream SPF With CityGoo dark spot corrector can I use that before moisturizer? At night I use: Cleanser Tretinoin Timeless Q10 serum Peptide serum Cerave night renewal Eye cream. I have found since Oct 2023 when starting Tret my dark spots were only 3 now I have around 10 I’m thinking it’s bringing out the spots underneath the skin. Thank you Oh I use Paula’s choice mandelic acid n lactic acid one night a week instead of Tret

[@ashleyhernandez425]

Thank you for the video. I do have a question about which step to use mandelic acid. Should it be before or after using Lucent-C?

[@erindevine7520]

I have rosacea so was wondering if lucent C safe for my skin? Just don't want to buy if its not the best for rosacea and super sensitive skin.

[@loriallred4727]

What about peptides? I thought those were as important as retinoids.

[@DrSamEllis]

This is a beginner routine so it’s focused on the basics! I would say peptides are great but retinoids would be the priority for a skincare newbie!

[@jilltaylor8252]

Can I put on a product for a specific amount of time, then remove it and still reap the benefit?? I have an overnight product that feels disgusting and tacky, but love the result. Trying to see if I can minimize the time it's on my skin

[@annayoung6610]

Yes really good .Iwill try not using a moisturizer after my vitamin c as i seem to get very greasey.I use la roche-posay 50+ invisable fluid (not to greasey)non shiny. What do you think of this sunscreen? =

[@MichelleSmith-xe9xg]

When are you going to come out with a retinol?

[@Tulitakon]

May I ask … do we need a sunscreen at the evening or night for blue lights protection?

[@nancymoules]

Would you advocate for the use of Vit C as opposed to hyaluronic acid?

[@DrSamEllis]

Depends what someone’s skin needs. But generally I’d prioritize vitamin c!

[@sandiecox8760]

Thank. You!!!

[@nunu9417_]

Opinion on vitamin c serums from garnier?🤔

[@jacklynallen1776]

Great video. Thank you! I have sensitive skin with anything other than mineral sunscreen. Is the sunscreen you used good for my type of skin?

[@DrSamEllis]

It’s not a mineral sunscreen, but I find that many people with sensitive skin can still tolerate it very well!

[@yvonnelouw1032]

Hi, how much for the range

[@princesscynthi]

since you dont ship to canada can you recommend a vitamin C serum for me sensitive skin? I have rosacea . thank you!

[@mrskorn]

Do you need a sunscreen if you are not going to be outside?

[@brookewatson9531]

Would this first aid beauty retinol product be good for dry sensitive rosacea prone skin?

[@Blondetech]

do you ever exfoliate also? confused on whether to add glycolic acid to my routine for more anti aging.

[@heidevoglis9178]

I have very sensitive skin..fragrance free.. I am 52.. I have good skin..but I have wrinkles/dark circles/sun damage.. On a budget. What would you recommend? I am thinking of castor oil... I dont mind using a few items but i don't want long routine. Lol My dermatologist recommended Differin for the issues I have....it's fragrance free, and it burnt my skin..I returned it..

[@ginawiggles918]

I'm REALLY a beginner. What I wan't to know is.....are these products available on Amazon, the local drugstore, a department store , or a makeup store like Sephora? Being disabled, Amazon would be my preference, *IF* they are available there. On the other hand I've heard people claim that Amazon sells old or counterfeit beauty products. Any opinion on that? I appreciate ANY advice. Thanks.

[@cheyennehardy8219]

I’ve heard not to take your retinol down your neck because of the sensitive/thin skin. Currently I use differin, so maybe thats a bit stronger than the FAB one? Thoughts? I do want anti-aging on my neck too! 😊

[@DrSamEllis]

If you can tolerate it there, it’s so beneficial to use on the neck! So it’s something to be cautious about, but if someone can do it there are benefits! This one is super gentle so it’s a good option if someone wants to venture onto their neck.

[@cheyennehardy8219]

Great! Thanks so much.

[@Saif-op]

I am using retenol three times a week , can i use spf only the day after retenol .not every day?

[@victoriakremenskaia9247]

What about eye cream? Are you using the same moisturizer around your eyes?

[@DrSamEllis]

I do! This is a beginner routine, so I wanted to keep it simple and minimize the number of products used.

[@morganavanniekerk6767]

Is water cleansing in the morning still helpful after a workout? I have rosacea and I would prefer to water cleanse in the morning but I also workout every morning.

[@DrSamEllis]

Totally! If you’re just rinsing off sweat, water is adequate ☺️

[@cheryl5667]

Do you have composite bonding on your teeth? Veneers? Just blessed?

[@kerabeem6107]

I adore you! I have been doing SO much research on retinoid for my 16 year old due to acne and post acne hyperpigmentation! We have a dermatologist appointment tomorrow but I was pretty set on starting differin but after this I am second guessing…..I guess the biggest question I have is would the retinoid you used work to clear up acne PLUS all the other great benefits you get from a retinoid?? Or is differen still the best best to deal with acne plus other benefits of retinoid!

[@DrSamEllis]

For acne I typically base my recommendations on the current research and American Academy of Dermatology guidelines which both recommend adapalene (like Differin) or tretinoin as a starting retinoid for those specifically targeting acne. Hope that helps!

[@nicalbers]

I want to use the pm moisturizer badly but I have combo skin....is it going to make my oily spots worse?

[@sofchav]

Hi! How long after applying retinol should I wait for the next step?

[@DrSamEllis]

I usually just wait about 30 to 60 seconds

[@katelyn.grace._]

I’ve been using Gleanser twice for my double cleanse… should I use something else first and then use Gleanser to finish?

[@DrSamEllis]

If you’re finding that it’s removing everything then that’s totally OK!

[@katelyn.grace._]

@@DrSamEllis okay thank you!! I rarely wear makeup or anything so I guess I’ll just stick with this

[@shadowtouched16]

Can I use Retin A - Rx .05% on my face, but then apply a oil based bakuthiol on neck, chest and arms? I got a sample of a leading brands eye cream with bakuthiol in it but didn't like the smell so body it goes. I ask just in case they mixed by accident contact along jaw, under eyes and on hands.

[@xr29-72]

Does it matter if u use a spf 30 or 50 .

[@DrSamEllis]

If you’re not spending prolonged time outdoors, and we are just thinking about sunscreen as a daily protectant, then anything between 30 and 50 is great

[@nunu9417_]

So for the oily skin girls in here… we could actually skip the moisturizer after that retinol at night? It seems moisturized enough🤔

[@bellasmith4321]

For most people, retinols are very drying to the face. Perhaps a light gel moisturizer would be enough for those with oily skin, but I wouldn't skip moisturizer completely, especially if you're trying to introduce a retinol into your routine

[@dinarakasim581]

What a beautiful face!

[@chariots8x230]

I can’t use the ‘CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser’ or the ‘First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Hydra-Firm Night Cream’, because both of these products contain Hyaluronic Acid in them. Hyaluronic Acid dries out my skin really badly to the point where fine lines form all over my face and I start looking much older. From my experience, Hyaluronic Acid is a horrible ingredient to be included in products that are made for sensitive skin. So, I avoid all skincare products that contain Hyaluronic Acid in them. The other skincare products you mentioned seem interesting though. I’m thinking of trying them out.

[@nunu9417_]

How about a video about thiamidol??🙆🏽‍♀️

[@cassiefairhurst716]

No toner ????

[@kwaiwatam]

I use the retino, my face is irritated and tingling

[@micahsolylo]

Would it be more effective to use a retinol like that every day or prescription strength tretinoin 2-3x a week? I have sensitive skin and have been using tretinoin for a couple years now but can’t seem to ever tolerate more than 2-3x a week without too much irritation. Seems like my face is always peeling but I want the benefits of the stronger one.

[@DrSamEllis]

Gentle retinoids are very effective when used consistently over time! I always tell my patients to prioritize consistency over potency. It’s no fun to constantly have your skin in a state of irritation or repair

[@micahsolylo]

@@DrSamEllis Okay that makes sense. Thank you so much for your reply!!

[@Islandash]

My prescription tube of tretinoin is cheaper than this product, and it can be used carefully to avoid irritation.

[@DrSamEllis]

As someone who prescribes tretinoin many times a day, I would actually push back on that. Over the years, I have had many many patients who cannot tolerate tretinoin in any form, but still would like to incorporate a retinoid into their routine.