Archive · 8 Dec 2025
Dermatologist Guides Beginners on Active Skincare Routines
A dermatologist named Dr. Gurveen Waraich has shared tips for beginners who want to start using special skincare ingredients like retinol, AHAs, and BHAs.
She explains that these ingredients can be confusing, but she gives simple advice on how to use them safely.
For example, salicylic acid is good for oily or acne-prone skin and should be used a few times a week.
Retinol is great for aging or textured skin and should be used at night.
Glycolic acid helps with dull skin and should be used once or twice a week.
Niacinamide is the gentlest option and can be used every day.
Dr. Waraich advises starting slowly and being consistent to see the best results.
Salicylic acid is recommended for oily or acne-prone skin, used 2–3 times per week.
Azelaic acid is gentle and safe during pregnancy, suitable for sensitive and pigmentation-prone skin.
Retinol is ideal for aging or textured skin, used twice a week at night.
Glycolic acid is beneficial for dull or uneven skin, used 1 to 2 times a week at night.
Niacinamide is the most forgiving ingredient, suitable for daily use and supporting the skin barrier.
- Who
- Dermatologist Gurveen Waraich
- What
- Guidance on introducing active skincare ingredients for beginners
- When
- Not specified
- Where
- Not specified
- Why
- To help beginners safely incorporate active ingredients into their skincare routines
- Salicylic Acid
- 0.5 to 2 percent, 2–3 times per week
- Azelaic Acid
- Below 10 percent, safe during pregnancy
- Retinol
- 0.2 to 0.5 percent, twice a week at night
- Glycolic Acid
- 5 to 8 percent, 1 to 2 times a week at night
- Niacinamide
- 2 to 5 percent, suitable for daily use