Incredibly basic skincare routine

[SnowyIcySnow]

Please, don't get complicated!
Im mid 40s.
I wash my face with soap once a day.
I put sunscreen (boire watery essence) on if I'm out all day, or on holiday. I usually break out in spots if I use for more than a few consecutive days
My skin drys out a bit more in winter. I put moisturizer on about once a month. I've been trying to do it more frequently since the new year, but, again, ive had spot breakouts. Previously ive tried simple, but these newer more gel like cosmetics, rather than creams, feel less 'evil' on my skin.

However, my skin is starting to show its age. I wear makeup about once a year.

What should I do?

Interesting! I have heard that some people struggling with acne get worse, and think it’s purging at first but then gets worse. What other ingredients did they put you on? Did you tell them? As they can work with you to change the formula to help you. I used them a few years ago but started Monderma I’d say about a year ago and they’ve been great with me finding the right formula. Think I’m nearly there

Aldi do some fabulous dupes. I really rate their marine and overnight stuff

Switch to a cleanser instead of soap, you may find you breakout when switching products but this should calm down. Olay beauty fluid is a good moisturiser and never leaves my face feeling slimey. I apply it after cleansing

Jurlique do a rose gel moisturiser that I really like and might for you for night time. I also like Patchology Aquaflash gel moisturiser which I use in summer as it's really refreshing.

Yes try to avoid using soap on your face if possible. Soaps often have a high pH which can lead to dry and/or red skin. Damaging your barrier can also accelerate fine lines.

If you aren't keen on a moisturiser at night how about a serum?
Superdrug do one called simply pure hydrating which I used for years. It's about £3 so if you don't like it, use it up on your hands or body!

Or you might like a water cream
The inkey list have one called omega water cream

I've used Inkey omega water cream and it's decent. It has glycerin for hydration and niacinamide to lighten.