You might find the word “normal” as a skin type classifier on product packaging, but no one actually has perfectly normal skin. However, if your skin isn’t particularly oily or dry, and if anti-aging, acne, and sensitivity aren’t concerns on your radar, then you have what we consider to be “balanced skin.”
Your Menu
Cleanser (Morning/Night): A sulfate-free cleanser with a gentle lather, like Renée Rouleau’s Purifying Face Wash ($37) or Fresh Soy Face Cleanser ($38), promises to help keep your skin blemish-free.
Toner (Morning/Night): Avoid ingredients like SD alcohol 40, denatured alcohol, ethanol, and isopropyl alcohol; “These [ingredients] are commonly found in toners and should be avoided,” Rouleau cautions. Try Cremorlab Mineral Treatment Essence ($48) for a boost of energizing, brightening hydration.
Moisturizer With SPF (Morning): “When you moisturize, do two applications, one on the face and one on the neck,” Rouleau says. She adds, “Sun protection isn’t just about the number—it’s about how generously you apply it.” A light moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30 will protect your skin from the sun and hydrate without clogging your pores. Rouleau suggests looking for ingredients like dimethicone, panthenol, and sodium hyaluronate (also known as hyaluronic acid).
Antioxidant Serum (Night): Rouleau suggests looking for an antioxidant serum with brightening ingredients like vitamin C and algae extract, as well as naturally revitalizing ingredients like rosemary and peppermint. We’re fans of Caudalie Reveratrol Lift Firming Serum ($82).
Moisturizer (Night): At night, you can go with a creamier moisturizer, sans SPF, meant to nourish your skin while you sleep. Try Tatcha’s The Water Cream ($68).