Basic Skincare Routine

This is the routine most people will use day to day. It builds on the Minimalist Skincare Routine by adding structure, optional treatments, and a clear order of operations so every product works the way it’s meant to. If you want a routine that’s still simple but offers more flexibility and support for common skin concerns, this is the place to begin.

This routine works for all skin types and all ages, and it’s designed to protect the skin barrier, reduce irritation, and keep the microbiome balanced. Optional steps are clearly marked so you can customize without overdoing it.

If your skin is sensitive or reactive, start with the Minimalist Version of each product, patch test everything, and introduce new ingredients slowly.

If you are experiencing Malassezia overgrowth, see the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe Skincare Routine.

The routine below references products from Simple DIY Skincare: The Complete Guide to Easy, Natural Recipes for Beginners. In the book, you’ll learn how to make each product yourself — including minimalist versions, variations, and customization options — so the routine becomes fully tailored to your skin.

If you don’t have the book yet, you can still follow the structure of the routine using products you already own. But if you want to create the exact formulas this routine is designed around, the book walks you through every recipe step‑by‑step.

Learn to Make These Products
Choose a Different Skincare Routine

Steps Where Order Matters

These steps are designed to work in sequence. Following the correct order helps each product perform optimally and supports a healthy skin barrier.

Evening Routine (3 Required Steps)

  1. Cleanse with Oil — Use a non-comedogenic Oil Cleanser to dissolve and lift away microbiome-disrupting buildup. This gentle cleanse preserves natural moisture and can be used on the face or all over the body with minimal water.
  2. Exfoliate & Balance (Optional, up to twice a week) — Apply Manuka Mud Treatment Mask to smooth, purify, and balance oil levels without drying.
  3. Cleanse & Hydrate (Optional) — Follow with Hydrating Cleanser to remove invisible microbiome disruptors. Use after Manuka Mud to fully remove the mask.
  4. Treat (Optional) — Apply Super Serum to clean, slightly damp skin. This water-based serum delivers customizable actives to target specific concerns like pigmentation, sensitivity, or barrier repair.
  5. Moisturize Face & Body — Apply your chosen moisturizer to nourish, lock in hydration, and support barrier function.
  6. Zap Zits (As Needed) — Apply Zit Zap Spot Stick after moisturizing to calm inflammation and prevent breakouts. Keep it handy for quick application throughout the day. Malassezia Moisturizer and Manuka Mud can also be used for spot treatment.

Morning Routine (3 Required Steps)

  1. Cleanse — Use Hydrating Cleanser to refresh and prep the skin. Oil Cleanser can be used if preferred
  2. Treat (Optional) — Apply Super Serum to clean, slightly damp skin to deliver targeted actives before sealing in moisture.
  3. Moisturize Face & Body — Apply your chosen moisturizer to nourish, lock in hydration, and support barrier function.
  4. Sunscreen (Liquid/cream) — Use a mineral sunscreen daily if you’ll be outdoors. Apply liquid or cream formulas before makeup. Some makeup formulas already contain mineral sun protection. Powder sunscreens can be used on top of makeup for reapplication.
  5. Makeup (Optional) — For normal or dry skin, use liquid, cream, or powder foundation. For oily or acne-prone skin, use mineral powder foundation. DIY makeup will be covered in the next volume.
  6. Stop Shine (Optional) — Apply a mattifying face powder to reduce shine, blur pores, and support clearer skin. Use it after sunscreen if you’re wearing it alone, or as a setting powder over foundation. Reapply throughout the day as needed.
  7. Clean Makeup Applicators (As Needed) — Use a makeup brush cleaner — or Oil Cleanser followed by Hand Wash — to remove buildup and microbiome‑disrupting residue. Clean brushes and sponges immediately after each use.

Scalp Care (1 Required Step)

  1. Treat — If you experience itchiness or dandruff, apply a thin layer of Manuka Mud to the scalp and leave it on for a few minutes before washing.
  2. Cleanse — Use the Shampoo to cleanse the scalp without feeding Malassezia or stripping the barrier.
  3. Moisturize — Use a small amount of Malassezia Moisturizer after rinsing to calm irritation and support barrier recovery.

Steps Where Order Doesn’t Matter

These products can be used at any time, in any order, as needed.

  • Moisturize Lips — Use Lip Butter to protect and hydrate lips. Also works beautifully around the eyes and on cuticles.
  • Stop the Stink — Use Peaceful Pits Liquid Deodorant for fungal‑prone skin or the Deodorant Stick for stronger odor protection.

Acne

Dry Skin

Oily Skin

Malassezia

Body Odor