Skincare is the practice of taking care of the skin on your face and body to keep it healthy, clean, and protected. Just like you brush your teeth to prevent cavities or exercise to keep your muscles strong, skincare involves regular habits that help your skin do its job better.

Your skin is actually your body's largest organ, and it works hard every day: it protects you from germs, helps control your body temperature, and shields you from sun damage. Basic skincare might include washing your face to remove dirt and oil, applying sunscreen before going outside, or using lotion when your skin feels dry and itchy. Some people develop elaborate skincare routines with many different products, while others keep it simple with just soap and water.

The word can also refer to the products themselves. You might see a skincare section at the store filled with cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Different skin types need different care: someone with oily skin might need different products than someone with dry skin. While advertisements sometimes make skincare seem complicated or expensive, the most important parts are actually straightforward: keep your skin clean, protect it from too much sun, and pay attention when something feels wrong so you can ask a doctor or dermatologist for help.