At The Skin Institute at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute, we know a great skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated, time-consuming, or expensive. In Real Simple’s article, “The Skin Care Mistake Patients Always Make, According to a Dermatologist – and the Drugstore Swaps to Use Instead,” Reno-based Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Whitney Hovenic of the Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute shares her expert tips for creating a simple, effective skincare routine.
Living in Reno’s dry, high-desert climate, it’s essential to focus on hydration, protection, and barrier repair. Dr. Hovenic’s recommended morning and evening routines make it easy to care for your skin without extra steps or expensive products – just reliable, Dermatologist-approved essentials that fit every lifestyle.
What is an Easy and Effective Morning Routine? Cleanse, Hydrate, Protect
Step 1: Gentle Cleanser
Starting your morning with a mild cleanser helps remove impurities without drying out the skin, setting the stage for the products that follow. For this step, she suggests the CeraVe® Hydrating Facial Cleanser.
“For Real Simple readers who appreciate no-fuss solutions, this cleanser gets the job done without stripping or irritation, and it won’t break the budget,” says Dr. Hovenic at The Skin Institute’s Reno – Lakeside Crossing location.
Step 2: Lightweight Moisturizer
“Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Gel Cream is a great choice as it is lightweight, hydrates deeply, and layers easily under sunscreen or makeup,” says Dr. Hovenic. “It’s perfect for those who want a reliable, everyday moisturizer that doesn’t require extra steps or expensive formulas.”
A gel-based moisturizer like Neutrogena Hydro Boost provides lasting hydration and creates a smooth base for sunscreen and makeup.
Step 3: Daily Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your best defense against premature aging, sunspots, and skin cancer – and should be an all-year-round habit, regardless of the weather or season. Our Dermatology Providers recommend sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.
How Can You Simplify Your Evening Skincare Routine? Cleanse, Restore, Replenish
Step 1: Makeup and SPF Removal
Micellar water makes it easy to dissolve makeup and dirt without tugging or over-cleansing. It’s perfect for winding down after a long day.
“Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water is gentle, quick, and removes makeup and SPF in one step,” says Dr. Hovenic. “It’s ideal for busy evenings, so anyone who wants an easy, low-stress routine can cleanse thoroughly without extra effort.”
Step 2: Hydrating Cleanser
This step ensures your skin is clean yet comfortable, maintaining its natural barrier overnight.
“At night, I often suggest La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser because it’s creamy and calming, a great way to keep skin balanced after a long day, and it’s safe for those who are dealing with combination skin or acne,” says Dr. Hovenic.
Step 3: Barrier-Repair Moisturizer
A simple nighttime moisturizer with barrier-supporting ingredients helps repair the skin while you sleep, leaving it refreshed by morning.
“CeraVe® PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is a multitasker,” says Dr. Hovenic. “It restores hydration, strengthens the skin barrier, and has ingredients like niacinamide that calm redness.”
By following Dr. Hovenic’s straightforward steps, you can keep your skincare routine simple and stress-free, without sacrificing results. Focusing on gentle cleansing, hydration, and sun protection covers all the essentials your skin needs for a healthy, radiant glow.
Ready to simplify your skincare?
Book a consultation with Dr. Whitney Hovenic at the The Skin Institute Reno – Lakeside Crossing or Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute Reno-Warren Way locations to receive personalized recommendations tailored to your skin type and lifestyle. Dr. Hovenic specializes in Medical Dermatology, Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Skin Cancer Treatment, and Cosmetic Dermatology.