Need a Basic Skincare Routine to Start You Off? AB LAB Is Here to Help
Lisa Patulny is a beauty editor, journalist, career creative and Italo disco enthusiast. (She’s also a qualified volunteer ethics teacher, so if you’re looking for a D&M on an ethical issue, you know who to call.) She’s passionate about a lot of other things too: sun safety, skincare, fragrance, family (hi kids!), food and travel. Find her on socials @lisapatulny.
As a career beauty editor, I enjoy the faff of a complex, multi-step skincare routine as much as the next gal.
That said, these days I don’t have as much time for the faff as I once did. (Children, self-employed etc. etc.)
Lately, I’ve found myself snapping up my skincare regimen, adopting a much more stripped-back approach.
I’ve whittled down my daily lineup to a tight edit of hard-working basics that cleanse, nourish and protect.
From there, I’ll add targeted treatments – like a barrier repair serum – depending on what my skin is doing.
One brand I’ve explored on this journey is Adore Beauty’s own AB LAB, for its simple but effective skincare.
AB LAB’s MO is offering products for different skin types at under $50 that can slot into any beauty routine.
Want to know more? Let me run you through AB LAB’s foundational picks for dry, oily and combo skins.
Best AB LAB Products For Your Skin Type.
Your Basic Skincare Routine For Dry Skin:
1. SPF:
This moisturising sunscreen not only provides broad-spectrum sun protection, it also brings antioxidants to the table (vitamin C and resveratrol) to help protect against free radical damage and even out skin tone.
It’s a lightweight, milky formula that blends in seamlessly, giving a naturally luminous finish for a lil’ extra glow.
2. Cleanser:
A solid option for folks with dry and/or sensitive skin, this creamy cleansing emulsion is infused with pro-vitamin B5, olive squalane, hyaluronic acid, and wild rosella extract for comforting care.
It effectively sweeps away dirt and makeup, while still respecting (not stripping!) the skin's natural moisture barrier.
3. Moisturiser:
A glow-boosting moisturiser designed to replenish dull, dry skin, it offers a deliciously dewy glow (the clue is in the name) courtesy of a powerful combo of actives: vitamin C, ceramides, squalane, and Kakadu plum extract.
You’ll get deep nourishment, you’ll get antioxidants, you’ll get luminosity – you’ll get compliments.
Your Basic Skincare Routine For Oily Skin:
1. Cleanser:
Super-dooper refreshing, this foamy facial cleanser is all about gently whisking away the yuck stuff without drying out your skin.
Niacinamide regulates sebum and brightens, an AHA-BHA complex exfoliates, and glycerin reduces moisture loss.
Plus, it smells faintly of a floral bouquet, making it double the pleasure to use.
2. Moisturiser:
What: AB LAB by Adore Beauty B3 Balance Water Gel Moisturiser 50mL with Niacinamide and Hyaluronic acid
Like a tall glass of water for thirsty skin, this oil-free moisturising-but-matte gel-cream is tailored for oily types.
It’s got plenty of balancing ingredients (niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and finger lime extract) to regulate excess oil, support the skin’s protective barrier and infuse it with antioxidant goodness.
Your Basic Skincare Routine For Combo Skin:
1. SPF:
Offering a time-saving blend of skincare and sun protection, it’s been formulated with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to dial up hydration while providing the requisite broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
Its light cream texture blends effortlessly into skin, leaving behind an undetectable (but naturally glowy) finish.
2. Cleanser:
Do I know how this buttery balm can magically deep cleanse and infuse skin with moisture all at once? Nope. Do I care? Also no. (Lies – I do. It’s the clever combo of lactic acid, fruit enzymes, and plant oils that does it.)
A skin-softening experience, it melts away even waterproof makeup.
Like a PM double-cleanse? You’ll love this.
3. Moisturiser:
We’ve chatted about this one already (above), but I’ve got an extra point to share, specifically in relation to using it on combo skin.
Thanks to its laundry list of hydrating and barrier-strengthening ingredients, it can be particularly useful in balancing sebum without creating a congestion situation the way richer creams can.
Final Thoughts.
If you’re on the lookout for a few new skincare basics, I recommend you add AB LAB to your browsing list.
It’s one of those no-brainer brands that’ll help you cover off the essentials without breaking the bank, leaving you with enough dosh to splash on things like targeted serums or luxe treatment masks (if that’s your thing).
Check out more of Lisa's recent Beauty IQ articles below:
