If you’ve ever walked into a skincare store and wondered what vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, salicylic acid and all those other ingredients actually do, you’re not alone.
Skincare can sometimes feel like learning a whole new language.
The good news? You don’t need to use every active ingredient to have a good skincare routine. What matters is understanding what an ingredient does, how often it can be used, and what your skin can tolerate.
Here are some common skincare must-haves and how they’re presented in the TSWLabs guide.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is commonly used in the morning.
The guide recommends applying it to clean skin before moisturiser and SPF.
It is often included in routines focused on achieving brighter-looking skin and supporting a more even complexion.
When to use it: AM, daily.
Retinol
Retinol is one of those ingredients you don’t necessarily want to rush into.
The TSWLabs guide recommends starting 2–3 times a week and increasing as tolerated, using it at night and following with moisturiser.
The key phrase here is as tolerated. Your skin’s response matters.
When to use it: PM, 2–3 times a week initially.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is one of the more flexible ingredients on the list.
The guide recommends using it daily, up to twice a day, either in the morning, evening or both.
It is also described as a great first active for someone who is new to skincare.
When to use it: AM and/or PM, daily.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an exfoliating active, so how often you use it matters.
The guide recommends using it 1–3 times a week in the evening, depending on your tolerance.
One important reminder from the guide: don’t use it on the same night as retinol.
When to use it: PM, 1–3 times a week.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is another popular active, particularly in routines designed for oily or blemish-prone skin.
The guide recommends using it 3–4 times a week, while noting that oily skin may tolerate daily use.
It can be used in the morning or evening, but the guide advises avoiding doubling up with retinoids on the same night.
When to use it: AM or PM, 3–4 times a week to start.
Hyaluronic Acid
Unlike some of the stronger actives on this list, hyaluronic acid is primarily associated with hydration.
The guide recommends applying it to damp skin before moisturiser, either in the morning, evening or both.
When to use it: AM and/or PM, daily.
The Most Important Part? Don’t Overdo It.
Having access to lots of skincare ingredients doesn’t mean you need to use all of them.
In fact, adding several new actives to your routine at once can make it difficult to know what’s actually working for your skin—and may leave you dealing with unnecessary irritation.
Start with what your skin actually needs.
Introduce new products gradually.
Pay attention to how your skin responds.
And remember: a good skincare routine isn’t about having the most products. It’s about having the right ones and using them consistently.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Skincare doesn’t have to be confusing.
If you’re unsure which products or ingredients are right for your skin, talk to the TSWLabs team for personalised guidance before building your routine.