By Virginia Wamuyu
Even as a student, you still need to have a skincare routine. A good skincare routine:
- Keeps your skin in good condition (read deals with acne and dark spots.)
- Prevents the occurrence of skin problems.
- Brightens your skin
- Boosts your confidence, hello beautiful looking skin!
But sometimes you may not have the budget to cater to the massive number of products you see your favourite influencers having. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have some skincare essentials on a budget.
Start with the basics
” For a basic skincare routine, you need a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen,” advises Maureen Bandari of Bandari beauty.
She goes on to add “You need to determine your skin type and needs, to buy skincare products tailored for your specific skin type and needs,”.
Now let’s get into more detail.
1. Cleanser

This is a product that removes dirt and product build-up from your face. It’s vital to cleanse your skin every morning and night.
But before you go out there and start looking for a cleanser, be warned, there are so many options out there that you might get confused. Do a bit of research before hitting cosmetic stores.
2. Moisturize

After stripping your skin, it now needs some moisture to keep it supple. That’s where a moisturizer steps in. A moisturizer hydrates and prevents your skin from drying out.
Some tips on using a moisturizer:
- Apply on damp skin.
- Use a moisturizer right for your skin type.
- Don’t forget your neck.
3. Sunscreen

The icing on the cake is sunscreen. Your face is probably the most exposed to the sun as such, it needs to be protected. Sunscreen does the job and guards your skin against harmful UV rays.
- Choose an SPF of 30 and above.
- Apply 15 minutes before going outside or wearing clothes.
- Don’t forget the back of your ears and neck.
- Wear sunscreen even if you’re indoors.
Once you have these steps in place, you can go on making your routine more complex as you deem fit. Any essentials you think I have skipped?
Written by Virginia Wamuyu, a student in 3rd year, pursuing a degree in nutrition.