Your skin is your body’s largest organ, making it essential to take care of it no matter your age or gender.

But amid the aisles full of products and endless online trends, it’s not always easy knowing where to start. However, with just a few simple steps and consistency, you can keep your skin feeling and looking healthy.

Start with a clean slate

One of the most sensitive areas to protect is your face, so it’s vital to cleanse it regularly to remove dirt, oil, and environmental pollutants that build up. Twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bed, wash it with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and warm water. If you work out in between, consider adding a third cleanse when you’re done to get rid of excess sweat and dirt from your pores.

Moisturize every day

Your skin needs regular hydration to maintain its protective barrier and plump appearance. For your face, choose a lightweight lotion if you have oily or acne-prone skin or a thicker ointment if it tends to be dry; look for key ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, petrolatum, and glycerin. For your body, a simple moisturizing cream will suffice. Apply each after washing, preferably when your skin is still damp.

Always apply sunscreen

No skin-care routine is complete without sunscreen since it can help prevent sunburn and premature aging while lowering your risk of skin cancer. Opt for one with broad-spectrum protection and a minimum SPF of 30, and apply it before you go outdoors, even on cloudy days. And while many moisturizers also include SPF, layering a dedicated sunscreen on top offers better coverage.

Support your skin from within

Protecting your skin isn’t just about what you put on it—it’s also about what you put in your body. Staying hydrated (15.5 cups of water a day for men or 11.5 cups for women) and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, veggies, and whole grains can better your complexion. Conversely, stress can negatively impact it, so prioritize getting enough sleep, exercising, and making time for things that bring you joy to mitigate its effects.

In the end, everyone’s skin is unique. What works for friends or family members may not work for you. When trying something new, pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust accordingly. And if you experience a persistent issue like redness, breakouts, or flaking, it may be worth visiting a dermatologist for personalized advice.