I wasn’t really into skincare before I moved to France. I used to apply cream to my body and face, of course, but the minute I landed here, I realized my skin needed extra care. If you are in your twenties and looking for a way to start a beginner friendly skincare routine but don’t know how, I’ve got you.
Why does skincare matter?
The answer is in the name: “skin care.” Why wouldn’t you want to take care of your largest organ? If you have specific skin issues, the need is obvious. But for someone like me who didn’t have many issues back home, it took moving to a new environment to realize that my skin actually needed help.
Even if you don’t need products to “treat” a condition, you still need a good moisturizer. To be frank, when you are African moving to France, the weather forces your hand. As soon as winter hits, I realize I need much stronger hydration for my face and body to survive the cold.
Beyond the functional benefits, applying your skincare is a moment of “cocooning.” It makes you slow down and send a positive signal to your brain. Those few minutes in the morning or evening help boost your self-love and confidence. If you don’t believe me, think about how you feel after a good shower with your favorite soap. You feel refreshed and energized, don’t you? Skincare gives that same boost to your physique and your mind.
What’s your skin type?
Contrary to popular belief, there are generally two main skin types: dry and oily. Both types can be dehydrated or sensitive. I have a dry skin type, so keep that in mind when considering my product recommendations. If you want to learn more about identifying yours, I recommend watching this video.
How to build a skincare routine for beginners
I am not a dermatologist, so I look to the experts. According to Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme, a medical consultant with a specialist interest in dermatology, you only need five steps for a daily routine.
- Morning: Cleanser, Antioxidant, Moisturizer, and Sunscreen.
- Night: Cleanser, Serum (for specific issues), and Moisturizer.
1. The Cleanser
In the morning, I simply wash my face with water (there is no need for cleansing after a good night). At night, I use micellar water. However, I am looking forward to incorporating a “double-step” cleanse into my routine using Erborian’s cleansing oil and gel.
2. An Antioxidant
Antioxidants help protect the skin from environmental damage, like pollution for example. I didn’t even know I needed one until I tried Vitamin C and was amazed by the results. If you are an African girl dealing with hyperpigmentation, try incorporating Vitamin C. You will come back with testimonies!
I use the Aroma-Zone “Sérum concentré Vitamine C 10% & Astaxanthine” and 100% recommend it. It’s a must have serum like the one you find in French pharmacy.
3. The Moisturizer
I am still on a quest for the perfect face cream. Like i said, my skin needs extra hydration now, especially during the winter. Two moisturizers I can recommend are:
- Aroma-Zone Crème neutre désaltérante: A simple, hydrating moisturizer with aloe vera.
- The Inkey List Vitamin B, C, and E Moisturizer: I loved this for helping with brightness and giving me a subtle glow when my brown skin seemed dull in the winter. But I stopped using it since it was not practical for me to buy it. The tube is small and finishes fast. I need a bit more quantity.
For my body, Topicrem is my hero ! The classic Topicrem Ultra-Moisturizing Milk (Topicrem Ultra Hydratant) is my secret weapon for surviving the French climate and during winter I go extra by mixing it with Shea Butter (Beurre de Karité). People often forget body hydration when talking about skincare, but I’ve included it in my beginner’s skincare routine guide so you won’t be one of them.
4. Sunscreen (Yes, for dark skin!)
Let’s address the big question: “Do dark-skinned people need sunscreen?” The answer is yes, but perhaps not for the reason you think.
The sun’s rays are made of UVB and UVA. While our melanin provides some natural protection against UVB (the rays that cause burning), it isn’t a total shield. Scientists suggest melanin gives us a natural protection roughly equivalent to SPF 13 (about 85% to 90%), but it does very little to stop UVA rays—which are responsible for aging and hyperpigmentation.
As a woman, when it comes to a long-term skincare strategy, sunscreen is the ultimate anti-aging tool. It’s much easier to protect your skin now than to try to reverse sun damage later. Plus, why apply expensive serums if the sun is just going to undo all that work?
Also, like a friend of mine said, living in France involves a lot more walking. Back home in Benin, everyone avoids the sun at peak hours or takes quick transportation. Here, you are often exposed to the sun just walking to the bus station or the grocery store.
I personally prefer mineral sunscreens. I know it is a struggle to find a mineral sunscreen for dark skin without a white cast, but I prefer it over chemical ones.
- Recommendation : Aroma-Zone Stick Solaire Minéral SPF 50. (The stick is okay, but I suggest the cream version for easier application).
- Next up: I just received the Benton Mineral Sun Stick and can’t wait to try it!
5. Serum & The “Toner” Extra
The serum step is for targeting specific issues like acne or dark spots. Interestingly, I’ve also decided to add a toner. I used to think they were just a way to make us waste money, but I’ve changed my mind. I fell for the Tirtir Milk Skin Toner “propaganda” because I want that deep hydration and glow. I’ll let you know how it goes!
As a beginner, keep your skincare routine simple
You don’t need ten steps for an effective skincare routine. Do you even have all that time ? Also, when you are starting new, do not incorporate all products at once, try them individually to see if your skin likes it.
You’ll notice that my recommendations are quite affordable. Skincare doesn’t have to cost a kidney! Brands like Aroma-Zone give you great results without the high price tag. Choose a regimen that you can be consistent with, and always consult a specialist for specific issues.
Finally, be patient. It is said that it takes about a month to see a skincare benefit. You need to stick long enough to a routine to see if it works. Only change when it’s necessary and do not jump on every trend. Starting a skincare routine is very exciting in my experience, but the temptation of over spending is there. Do not become a product junky !
My motto is : I only buy what I need and I do not fix what is not broken.
Now tell me, are you looking forward to starting your skincare routine or if you already have one, what is your favorite product? Let me know in the comments!
PS : The products in this article are not sponsored; these are products I genuinely use 🙂
XO
Cover Image : Designed by Freepik