There are two main schools of thought when it comes to skin care. Some advocate a back-to-basics, soap-is-all-you-need approach while others push for a complicated system of creams, serums and lotions.

Local skin care experts explain which products you really need and which you can leave behind.

Cleanser: A good skin care routine starts with cleansing.

“You want to use a facial cleanser that’s specific to your skin type,” said Stephanie Wright, an esthetician at DeSpain Cayce Dermatology Center and Medical Spa. “If someone has acne, they would need something with a salicylic acid. If they have dry or more sensitive skin, a more gentle cleanser like Cetaphil will be better.”

Nicholas Golda, a surgical dermatologist and medical director of the dermatology clinics at University of Missouri Health Care, said cleansers don’t need to be expensive.

“I do recon when I am at Walmart, find out what’s on the shelves. I like a good, bland, nonirritating face wash,” Golda said. Brands he likes include Cetaphil, Purpose and Aveeno.

Golda recommends liquid cleansers over bars, which tend to be actual soaps.

You can read the rest of the article at The Columbia Daily Tribune: A good skincare regimen doesn’t have to be overly expensive or complicated