Please help a skincare virgin

[ShamefulUsername]

My face has never seen anything other than water. I'm starting to notice dry patches on my forehead and nose but I've no idea what I should be using.

Can anyone recommend a wash/moisturiser/whatever it is I need but on a budget please

Aside from the dry patches, what would you say your skin type is? And do you have any concerns, like ageing, dullness, blocked pores, redness?

It's not too bad actually, I get the occasional spot, and have a few blackheads on my nose. No redness or lines as such but I'm only 31. Under my eyes could be brighter but with 2 small dc I'd say that's a given

I too suffer from dark circles, but skincare generally won't help with that. The Maybelline age rewind (I think it's called) concealer with the little sponge on top is great for covering dark circles and has a few skincare benefits as well.

If you have the odd spot and dry patches I'd definitely recommend acid toning. Salicylic acid is good for pore-related issues, like spots and blackheads, and glycolic is for resurfacing, so would take care of your dry patches. Nip+Fab do Dragon's Blood pads, which contain salicylic, and also some glycolic ones, and they're usually in some kind of offer. I alternate between the two.

For cleansing, do you wear much make up or SPF? If not, you could probably get away with one cleanser, like the Superdrug Vitamin E or Natural Radiance hot cloth cleansers. If you wear make up I'd recommend double cleansing, using the above as the second cleanse and an oil as your first cleanse. Some people just use almond oil or similar, but the Body Shop, Una Brennan in Boots and L'Oreal do good budget options.

A budget moisturiser I'd recommend for pretty much all skin types is the Dirty Works (available in Sainsburys) 8 in 1 Miracle Cream.

I personally use a lot more products than that, but I am mental a skincare enthusiast. I think it's good to try a few things out first in case of reactions, but you may want to think about a serum and/or a facial oil later.

Thanks for all the info, you sound like an expert

I wear makeup very rarely, maybe once every 2 months.

You're welcome

I recommend something very gentle, like the Aderma range that Boots sell. Start with rinse or wipe-off cleanser and moisturising cream and see how you get on.

It might be too much information starting off but this is worth a look -
Cheat Sheet

I use all natural vegan products as my skin is so sensitive. Lasts ages and smells yummy. The cleanser has a little cloth with it which really helps xx