Build a Simple Skincare Routine with a Starter Set

By Susanne Kaufmann | Skincare Powered By Nature – Susanne ... | Published: 2026-10-17

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to build a simple, effective skincare routine using a starter set. Follow our step-by-step guide for beginners, with tips on order, product selection, and common mistakes.

Quick answer

Start with a starter set that includes a cleanser, treatment, and moisturizer. Apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency: cleanse first, then serum, then moisturizer. Use each product consistently for at least two weeks before evaluating results.

Why a starter set makes building a routine easier

A starter set takes the guesswork out of choosing individual products. Instead of researching dozens of serums and creams, you get a curated selection designed to work together. This is especially helpful if you are new to skincare or want to simplify your current routine.

Starter sets also tend to offer better value than buying each product separately. The Repair & Nourish Duo from Susanne Kaufmann, for example, bundles the Ectoin Repair Serum and Nourishing Day Cream at a lower combined price. That means you can try a complete regimen without committing to full-sized bottles upfront.

How to choose the right starter set for your skin

Look at the product descriptions to see which concerns the set addresses. The Repair & Nourish Duo is formulated for dry, irritated, or sensitive skin, while the Bath for the Senses & Pomegranate Body Oil duo focuses on relaxation and body nourishment. Match the set to your primary need—hydration, soothing, or simply a gentle clean.

Also consider the format. If you prefer a minimalist routine, a two- or three-piece set is often enough. The Hand Soap & Refill Set is a great entry point if you want to start with a single, effective product before expanding your routine.

Steps to build your simple skincare routine

Step 1: Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Use lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a clean towel. Do not scrub—rubbing can irritate the skin. Common mistake: using hot water or harsh cleansers that strip the skin's natural barrier. Stick to a gentle, pH-balanced formula.
Step 2: Apply treatment (serum or targeted product): After cleansing, apply a serum while the skin is still slightly damp. A few drops are enough—press the product into the skin rather than rubbing. This step addresses specific concerns like dryness or sensitivity. Common mistake: using too much product. A pea-sized amount is usually sufficient. Let the serum absorb for about 30 seconds before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Moisturize: Lock in hydration with a moisturizer. Apply it in gentle upward strokes. If your set includes a day cream, use it in the morning; if it's a richer formula, it can work for both day and night. Common mistake: skipping moisturizer because your skin feels oily. Even oily skin needs hydration to maintain balance. Choose a lightweight formula if needed.
Step 4: Protect (morning only): In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30. This step is non-negotiable for preventing sun damage and premature aging. Common mistake: thinking moisturizer with SPF is enough. You need a dedicated sunscreen applied generously and reapplied every two hours if you are outdoors.
Step 5: Observe and adjust: Use the routine consistently for two to four weeks. Pay attention to how your skin feels—less tight, fewer breakouts, more even texture. Only then decide if you need to add or swap products. Common mistake: changing products too quickly. Give your skin time to adapt. If irritation occurs, simplify back to just cleanser and moisturizer before reintroducing one product at a time.

Products that support a simple routine

Repair & Nourish Duo: A defensive power duo developed to repair and nourish dry, irritated or sensitive skin for a beautifully soft, smooth and hydrated complexion. Featuring Ectoin Repair Serum and Nourishing Day Cream, this limited-edition edit comes packaged in a gift box. This set gives you a treatment and a moisturizer in one box, so you only need to add a cleanser to complete a three-step routine. The gift box also makes it easy to store or give as a present.
Hand Soap & Refill Set: An exceptionally gentle liquid hand soap and refill infused with a delicate green floral fragrance, designed to effectively cleanse the skin without stripping away moisture. The refill is made from 75% post-consumer recycled plastic. If you are starting with just one product, a gentle hand soap is a low-commitment way to experience the brand's approach to cleansing. The refill system also reduces waste, which aligns with a simple, mindful routine.