5-step routine for dry skin
The Balanced Routine. For skin that feels tight, flaky or never quite comfortable.
This routine: 3 steps · 5 steps · 7 steps. For: Sensitive skin · Breakouts · Fine lines
Why these steps: Skin makes less oil and fewer ceramides as we get older, so it loses water more easily. The evidence points to gentle cleansing, a moisturiser with ceramides or hyaluronic acid, and daily sunscreen. A retinoid comes in slowly, cushioned by a rich cream.
Morning
1
Worth it for dry or sensitive skin
Chosen for dryness and sensitive skin.
£17.95at LOOKFANTASTIC, including standard single-item UK deliveryShop
2
Worth it if your skin is dry
Chosen for dryness.
£19.45at Cult Beauty, including standard single-item UK deliveryShop
3
Worth it if you love hydration
Chosen for dryness.
4
Worth it if your skin is dry
Chosen for dryness.
£24.95at LOOKFANTASTIC, including standard single-item UK deliveryShop
5
Worth it if your skin is dry
The most important anti-ageing step. Apply generously every morning.
£23.49at Skin Cupid, including standard single-item UK deliveryShop
Evening
1
Worth it if your skin is dry
First cleanse, to melt sunscreen and make-up.
£20.45at Cult Beauty, including standard single-item UK deliveryShop
2
Worth it for dry or sensitive skin
Chosen for dryness and sensitive skin.
£17.95at LOOKFANTASTIC, including standard single-item UK deliveryShop
3
Worth it if your skin is dry
Chosen for dryness.
£19.45at Cult Beauty, including standard single-item UK deliveryShop
4
Good, but compare first
Start 2 nights a week, then build up slowly. Always wear SPF the next day.
5
Worth it if your skin is dry
Chosen for dryness.
£24.95at LOOKFANTASTIC, including standard single-item UK deliveryShop
New to vitamin A? Start your night treatment two nights a week, then build up slowly. Always wear SPF the next day. We’ve kept exfoliating acids out of your evenings.
7 products, from about £127.50 including estimated standard UK delivery, if you buy from each shop in one order. Prices checked 2 November 2026.
Want it tailored to your skin type, age and budget? Take the routine quiz.
General guidance, not medical advice. Patch test new products and introduce one at a time. Retinoids aren’t recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Prices change often, so always check at the shop. How we check prices