Dr. Shaun Segal Shares a Daily Skincare Routine That Really Works

In a world overwhelmed with skincare trends, 10-step routines, and influencer hacks, it can be difficult to know what truly works. That’s why renowned dermatologist Dr. Shaun Segal is sharing a simplified, science-backed daily skincare routine that’s easy to follow, effective for most skin types, and focused on long-term results rather than overnight miracles.

With decades of experience treating patients of all ages and skin concerns, Dr. Shaun Segal believes that consistency, simplicity, and understanding your skin’s unique needs are the keys to maintaining healthy, radiant skin. His routine is built around clinically proven steps that support the skin barrier, prevent breakouts, and promote a natural glow, without overwhelming your schedule or wallet.

Why a Consistent Routine Matters

“Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective,” says Dr. Shaun Segal. “What matters most is doing the right things every day.”

Many people give up on skincare because they try too many products at once or expect instant results. But the skin takes time to adjust and heal. By sticking to a consistent, gentle routine, you allow your skin to thrive and reveal its natural beauty over time.

Dr. Shaun Segal’s 5-Step Daily Skincare Routine

This routine is suitable for all skin types and can be tailored based on personal needs (acne-prone, dry, oily, or sensitive skin). It’s designed for both morning and evening use, with slight adjustments.

1. Gentle Cleansing – Morning & Night

Cleansing is the foundation of your skincare routine. It removes dirt, oil, bacteria, and product residue that build up during the day or while you sleep.

Dr. Shaun Segal recommends:

• Using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser
  
  
• Avoiding harsh scrubs or sulfates
  
  
• Washing with lukewarm water (not hot)
  
  
• Cleansing for 30–60 seconds using fingertips
  
  

In the morning, cleansing helps prepare your skin for other products. At night, it removes impurities and makeup, allowing the skin to breathe and renew.

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2. Toning (Optional but Beneficial)

Toners help balance the skin’s pH, refine pores, and remove any residual cleanser or makeup. Dr. Shaun Segal suggests alcohol-free formulas with soothing ingredients like rose water, witch hazel, or green tea extract.

Toning can be especially helpful for oily or acne-prone skin, but it’s not mandatory for everyone.

3. Treat – Serums for Targeted Benefits

The “treatment” step is where you use active ingredients like serums or gels to address specific concerns such as acne, pigmentation, or aging.

Dr. Shaun Segal recommends:

• Vitamin C (AM) for brightening and antioxidant protection
  
  
• Niacinamide for redness and oil control
  
  
• Retinol (PM) for fine lines and cell turnover (use gradually)
  
  
• Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
  
  

Always patch-test new serums and introduce only one active at a time to avoid irritation.

4. Moisturize – Lock in Hydration

Hydration is key to glowing, resilient skin. Moisturizers seal in your previous steps and help prevent water loss.

Dr. Shaun Segal emphasizes:

• Choosing moisturizers based on skin type
  
  
  • Gel-based for oily skin
    
    
  • Cream-based for dry or sensitive skin
    
    
• Applying moisturizer while the skin is still slightly damp
  
  
• Avoiding heavy, comedogenic ingredients if acne-prone
  
  

Day or night, never skip this step—hydrated skin heals faster and looks more vibrant.

5. Sunscreen (AM Only)

The most important anti-aging and skin-saving product is sunscreen. According to Dr. Shaun Segal, UV damage is the primary cause of early aging, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer.

His SPF recommendations:

• Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+
  
  
• Apply generously to face, neck, and hands.
  
  
• Reapply every 2–3 hours when outdoors.s
  
  

Even if you’re indoors, UV rays can penetrate windows and affect your skin.

Bonus Tips from Dr. Shaun Segal for Long-Term Skin Health

Alongside the core routine, Dr. Shaun Segal offers a few additional habits to support skin clarity and confidence:

✔️ Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water flushes out toxins and keeps your skin cells hydrated from within. Aim for 6–8 glasses daily, and even more if you’re active or in dry climates.

✔️ Clean Your Pillowcases and Phones

Dirty surfaces often transfer bacteria to your face, leading to breakouts. Dr. Shaun Segal recommends changing pillowcases twice a week and sanitizing your phone daily.

✔️ Eat a Skin-Friendly Diet

Your skin reflects what you feed it. Incorporate antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc-rich foods to combat inflammation and support regeneration.

✔️ Get Enough Sleep

“Beauty sleep” is real. The skin undergoes repair while you rest. Poor sleep increases cortisol, which can trigger acne and dullness. Dr. Shaun Segal suggests 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night.

What to Avoid in Your Routine

Many skincare mistakes stem from impatience or misinformation. Dr. Shaun Segal urges you to avoid:

• Over-exfoliating (no more than 2x a week)
  
  
• Using too many activities at once
  
  
• Relying on viral skincare hacks without science
  
  
• Popping pimples (leads to scarring)
  
  

Gentle, smart skincare always wins in the long run.

Final Thoughts from Dr. Shaun Segal

Your skincare routine doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated—it just needs to be consistent and suited to your skin’s needs. By following this trusted routine from Dr. Shaun Segal, you’re giving your skin the tools it needs to stay healthy, hydrated, and radiant every day.