We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.

“So, you have normal skin? You are lucky! Normal skin is one of the less maintenance types. It doesn’t require much work to prevent excess oiliness.”

There are some steps you can take to make your skin look and feel better.

Beauty is personal, whether it is a tried and true skin care regimen, how often you wash your hair, or the cosmetics you are curious about.

We rely on a diverse group of writers, educators, and other experts to share their tips on everything from the way product application varies to the best sheet mask for your individual needs.

If you see a shop link to a specific product or brand, it has been thoroughly researched by our team, so it is a recommendation.

Normal skin may be due to genetics. You are born with certain genes that affect your skin type.

Stress, hormones, and sun exposure can cause a change in skin type.

“A normal skin type is defined as not excessively oily or dry. It has no presenting conditions,” explains Spirithoula Koukoufikis, senior medical aesthetician at Skinfluencer London. “It’s overtly healthy and the sebum and moisture balance of the skin are well-balanced.”

It can be difficult to know where to begin when creating a skin care routine for normal skin.

The basics are the best place to start. These include:

  • Cleanse twice a day with a gentle, nonfoaming cleanser.
  • Moisturize with a light, hydrating moisturizer.
  • Protect your skin from sun damage with an SPF of 30 or more.

Koukoufikis recommends a moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid. As a bonus step, you can treat the skin with a serum to brighten, hydrate, or smooth.

Less is more

Koukoufikis says that less is more when it comes to creating a skin care routine.

It is vital to keep it balanced. She says that stripping the skin will encourage it to produce more sebum.

Overmoisturizing can prevent the skin from producing its own natural moisturizers.

Resurfacing

Once you’ve masted the basics, you can add another step: resurfacing.

“Every skin type has a shedding cycle. It’s important to introduce a resurfacing product to encourage cell turnover to keep skin healthy,” says Koukoufikis.

You can gently resurface the skin using products that contain retinol as well as alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs).

Acne is often most associated with oily skin, but normal skin types can get breakouts too.

Excess oil can be produced when the skin is upset.

Try again

Natural products are believed to treat common skin care concerns. You will find some in your kitchen.

For example, coconut oil can add moisture, and oatmeal calms irritation.

Another natural ingredient you’ll often find in skin care products is rosehip oil, which may help with signs of aging, hyperpigmentation, and mild acne.

There are lots of products labeled “all-natural” at the counter. Koukoufikis believes pharmaceutical-grade products are more potent.

She says that if you buy an all-natural product or an OTC product, they will be less effective.

Good news! You don’t have to spend big to keep normal skin looking its best. There are skin care products to suit every budget.

To get the most bang for your buck, look out for active ingredients and check the dose listed on the packaging. For instance, active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are usually listed with a percentage.

If you’re investing in drugstore products, Koukoufikis says to make sure your cleanser is gentle. This will keep the skin’s pH stable.

Try to avoid anything that is drying.

The advice for men is the same as for any other gender.

The only difference is that people who shave their faces should follow up with a shaving balm that doesn’t irritate or strip the skin.

The skin may be more sensitive after a shave, so using an anti- inflammatory such as hyaluronic acid and SPF is very important.

The biggest mistake you can make with normal skin is to change the oil and water levels.

To maintain this delicate balance, Koukoufikis says you should stay away from harsh ingredients and heavy moisturizers. When it comes to exfoliating, only resurface the skin a maximum of 2 to 3 times a week.

If you throw that balance out of whack?

She advises to monitor the skin. If you experience a facial issue, treat the spot.

It is important that you look after your skin safely.

Koukoufikis advises avoiding harsh chemical peels. Instead, opt for regular facials every 4 to 8 weeks to give your skin a deep cleanse.

Wear an SPF 30+ every day.

Double-checking the credentials of the person carrying out the professional treatments is important. Look for board-certified doctors.

It is time to choose your products after you have learned how to care for normal skin. Some of our recommendations are listed below.

We consulted ingredients lists, scoured reviews, and asked our staff with normal skin for their recommendations to make this list.

Each product has been vetted by our team for medical and business standards. Learn more here.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $15
  • $$ = $15–$45
  • $$$ = over $45

Best cleansers for gentle cleansing

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

  • Price: $
  • Size: 16 fluid ounces (fl oz.)
  • Key ingredients: glycerin, panthenol

This cleanser is gentle and it delivers.

“It is ultra-gentle and is free of odor. It won’t interrupt your skin’s barrier function because it’s pH balanced. It contains a substance known to help the skin.”

“This cleanser is effective in removing dirt and impurities. Reviewers liked the formula and said it didn’t bother the skin.”

Dove Men Care Hydrate + Face Wash

Price: $
Size: 5 fl oz.
Key ingredients: stearic acid, lauric acid

Suitable for normal to dry skin types, this hydrating facial cleanser is made with lauric acid, naturally found in coconuts.

If you get dry patches, this face wash is a good choice. It provides a deep clean thanks to the inclusion of stearic acid.

Stearic acid is used in detergents. It lowers the surface tension of water, which allows it to wash away oils and dirt.

Reviewers say it cleans their skin without making it feel tight.

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

“Neutrogena has a hydrating cleanser that is gentle and creamy, which is a good choice for people who don’t want to disturb their skin’s barrier function.”

This budget-friendly choice cleanses without stripping the skin of oils and doesn’t include essential oils that can cause irritation. It’s also noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. It’s also made with a skin-nourishing polyglycerin formula.

Reviewers say it leaves their skin hydrated and soft. It was a good choice for skin that is sensitive.

Best serums for normal skin

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Price: $
Size: 1 fl oz.
Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, B5

The Ordinary has a cult following because of its budget-friendly products.

The lightweight formula of this hyaluronic acid serum is absorbed quickly.

As well as containing three different types of hyaluronic acid — known for its hydrating qualities — it also contains the humectant vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid. Humectants attract moisture and give the skin a soft, supple feel.

Reviewers say this makes their skin feel smooth and plump.

Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Redness Relief Serum

Price: $$
Size: 1 fl oz.
Key ingredients: avocado extract, ceramide-5

This milky serum works to support the skin’s barrier health. It contains a blend of plant-based ingredients, including avocado butter and avocado extract. These ingredients add moisture to dry spots on the skin.

It also has a blend of five types of ceramides already present in the skin’s lipid barrier, which means the product can absorb more efficiently into the skin.

The serum can be used to target irritation and redness and can enhance hydration. Reviewers say it gives the skin a dewy glow and a silky feel. Some say it can reduce redness within 3 to 4 weeks.

Mad Hippie Vitamin A Serum

Price: $$
Size: 1 fl oz.
Key ingredients: vitamin A, aloe vera

Best for people with normal skin who want to improve the appearance of sun-damaged, aging skin, the Mad Hippie Vitamin A serum uses retinol to target the appearance of discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles.

It also contains hyaluronic acid for added hydration, plus calming aloe vera and oats. Oats offer a soothing effect, while aloe vera forms a thin protective layer over the skin.

Retinol is a powerful ingredient so be careful with it. It is best to use it every other night, but only at night.

Best for normal skin.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Price: $$
Size: 2.5 fl oz.
Key ingredients: ceramide-3, niacinamide

This product is good for people with normal skin that is sensitive.

Hailed as a great all-rounder by some reviewers, it contains a combination of prebiotics designed to repair the skin’s barrier.

It is said to be effective to use on normal skin that is prone toAcne and leaves the skin feeling more supple.

It should be gentle enough to use without irritation, but some users warn that it can cause pilling when used with other products.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

Price: $
Size: 1.7 fl oz.
Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, trehalose

This hydrating gel-based moisturizer is alcohol free.

“It replenishes the skin’s hydration levels and contains hyaluronic acid.”

“This gel is noncomedogenic and may be a good choice for people who get occasional oiliness or have a bad complexion. It won’t cause problems with the pores.”

Reviewers said it is lightweight, you only need a small amount, and it absorbs quickly.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

Price: $$
Size: 1.7 fl oz.
Key ingredients: glacial glycoprotein, fountain plant extract

“Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is suitable for all skin types and is a favorite among skin care enthusiasts.”

“It’s lightweight and nongreasy make it great for normal skin.”

The cream contains extracts of fountain plant and glacier-derived glycoprotein, which are used for hydration. The ingredients may help improve the barrier function.

Reviewers rate the texture of the product highly, but some dislike it.

Best SPFs for normal skin

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

Price: $$$
Size: 1.7 fl oz.
Key ingredients: avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene

This sunscreen is good news for normal skin because it is lightweight and oil-free. It is free from the smell of perfume, which means it is less likely to irritate your skin.

Many reviewers say it is worth the price.

“The sunscreen formula is lightweight, but it still protects against the sun’s UV rays. It has the highest rating available, PA+++ protection.”

“It doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin.”

Reviewers loved the formula that it was nongreasy and had good protection against sun damage. Some reviewers said it caused problems.

Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen, SPF 35

Price: $$
Size: 1 fl oz.
Key ingredients: vitamin E, aloe leaf extract

Normal skin types are advised to stay away from heavy formulas. The sunscreen has a lightweight formula that absorbs quickly and has a texture similar to a serum.

“The cream doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin, can be worn under makeup, and it doesn’t cause any problems with the skin. It has an SPF of 35.”

“Many reviewers loved how light the product felt on their skin, but some felt it didn’t offer enough protection against UV rays.”

This sunscreen is vegan and cruelty-free.

Best resurfacing products for normal skin

Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Price: $$
Size: 4 fl oz.
Key ingredients: salicylic acid, green tea

“Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a good choice if you have normal skin.”

The product has salicylic acid in it. It can be used as a gentler alternative to face scrubs.

Reviewers praise the product for being effective and powerful. Some say it gave them a brighter complexion.

It is a good idea to use this only a few times a week, as it is not necessary to disturb your skin balance.

Best face mask for normal skin

Andalou Naturals Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask

Price: $$
Size: 1.7 fl oz.
Key ingredients: glycolic acid, vitamin C, honey,

If your skin is dull, this luxurious mask may help. It uses honey and glycolic acid to kill dead skin.

“Pumpkin oils are used to heal damaged skin. It is also designed to smooth the skin’s texture.”

Reviewers love the smell. Many people say their skin looked better after using the mask.

Best skin barrier repair products for normal skin

Krave Beauty Great Barrier Relief

Price: $$
Size: 1.52 fl oz.
Key ingredients: tamanu oil, seed oil, niacinamide

If you have knocked your skin out of balance, this cream may be a good choice.

“It has Tamanu oil that improves the skin’s texture. The ingredients include safflower and rosehip, which are great for soothing skin.”

It is vegan, cruelty-free, and free of colorants and fragrance.

“Reviewers say it’s cool and refreshing and they love its smell.”

This pick is not suitable for people with nut allergies.

Cocokind Ceramide Barrier Serum

Price: $
Size: 1 fl oz.
Key ingredients: aloe barbadensis leaf juice+, squalane, glycerin

The skin barrier is strengthened by the use of ceramides. The goal of this serum is to improve skin barrier function while decreasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkling.

If your skin tends to be dry, this might be a good choice. It contains squalane which provides hydrating benefits.

The brand uses mostly plastic-free, recyclable packaging and has a strong focus on sustainable practices.

Glossier Super Bounce

Price: $$
Size: 1 fl oz.
Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5

It is a favorite of make-up lovers and skin care enthusiasts. Their Super Bounce is designed to soothe and hydrate.

The formula has vitamins b5 and hyaluronic acid that help the skin stay hydrated.

It can be a great all-round product to add to your routine.

It claims to calm redness and boost elasticity. Reviewers say it gives them smooth, nourished skin, but some say it is too sticky.

Best natural skin care for normal skin

Juice Beauty Cleansing Milk

Price: $$
Size: 6.75 fl oz.
Key ingredients: resveratrol, grape juice, AHA

The cleanser has a creamy formula that is designed to remove dirt from the skin without stripping it of its hydration.

It has anti-bacterial, anti- inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties thanks to sesame oil.

Also on the ingredients list are chamomile and calendula, known to soothe and replenish, and vitamin C, a powerful brightening ingredient.

What do reviewers think? Some people say it is great at removing makeup without irritation, but others think it is a bad idea.

Ursa Major Fantastic Face Wash

Price: $$$
Size: 8 fl oz.
Key ingredients: aloe, white tea, AHA

A good choice for those who prefer a foaming cleanser, this face wash from Ursa Major also has exfoliating benefits thanks to the inclusion of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA).

“This product works to maintain normal skin. It keeps your skin’s hydration levels up.”

Cane sugar is a natural source of glycolic acid, and it is on the ingredients list. This can help clarify the skin.

The face wash contains rice seed, which is meant to have a smoothing and hydrating effect.

Youth to The People Kombucha Exfoliation Power Toner

Price: $$$
Size: 4 fl oz.
Key ingredients: lactic acid, glycolic acid, black tea

This toner has a potent formula that contains kombucha black tea ferment, designed to work as a prebiotic. The formula aims to enhance the skin’s natural microbiome, tighten pores, and smooth the skin’s texture.

It may also improve the appearance of oxidative stress, a kind of damage to the skin that accelerates aging by contributing to the loss of collagen and elastin.

The best time to use this toner is at night. It is a good idea to introduce it slowly because it may be too harsh for some skin types.

Reviewers say it made their skin more supple.

Raw Elements Certified Natural Sunscreen

Price: $$
Size: 3 fl oz.
Key ingredients: non-nano zinc oxide

This sunscreen is great for anyone who wants to use natural ingredients on their skin and is suitable for all skin types.

It has a recycled and reuse tin, and it is free from nuts, soy, andgluten.

The active ingredient in this lotion is non-nano zinc oxide, which provides a shield against harmful UV rays.

This sunscreen protects you from the sun for up to 80 minutes. It is water-resistant and offers broad-spectrum protection.

“If you have made changes to your skin care routine and are suddenly experiencing skin concerns that weren’t there before, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist.”

They can assess your skin and figure out why it is changing.

Have you still had questions about normal skin? Get the facts below.

Does having normal skin mean I can take skin hygiene less seriously?

It’s easy to assume that with normal skin you’re off the hook when it comes to proper skin hygiene. However, according to Dr. Hassan El Husseini, a dermatologist at Dr. Kayle Aesthetic Clinic, Dubai, this is not the case.

He says that all skin types need to be well- clean, use a good moisturizer, and use SPF to maintain their skin health.

Can I use face scrubs on normal skin or are they too abrasive?

Face scrubs that are too rough on the skin can be avoided. It may be better to use a chemical.

Dead skin cells need to be removed to enhance the appearance of the skin. Exfoliants should only be used twice a week with normal skin to keep the balance between oil and water levels.

When it comes to moisturizers, are richer or thinner formulations best for normal skin?

If your skin is dry, it can be tempting to reach for a rich cream. Lighter formulas are the best.

Husseini says that you should use a moisturizer occasionally.

Which is best for normal skin: an oil-based or water-based cleanser?

It is a personal preference.

“Husseini says that if you have normal skin, your main goal should be to find a cleanser that keeps your skin’s perfect balance intact.”

It is a case of finding the best solution for you.

How can I add radiance to normal skin?

You should use the product calledVitamin C. It helps to restore brightness.

“Normal skin is well-balanced and typically doesn’t present any major concerns, but that doesn’t mean you should skimp on looking after it.”

A gentle routine that includes a cleanser, SPF, and a moisturizers. Adding a skin product can provide additional support for hydration, hydration, and hydration.


Victoria Stokes is a writer from the United Kingdom. When she’s not writing about her favorite topics, personal development, and well-being, she usually has her nose stuck in a good book. Victoria lists coffee, cocktails, and the color pink among some of her favorite things. Find her on Instagram.