How to Build a Complete Aleppo-Based Face Routine: Cleanse, Treat, Moisturize

Your skin is complex. It needs cleansing to remove impurities, treatment to address specific concerns, and moisturizing to maintain health and barrier function. Yet many people approach skincare haphazardly, using random products without a coherent strategy.

The result? Inconsistent results, wasted money, and often, worse skin than when they started.

A complete, well-designed skincare routine is different. It's:

• Intentional: Each step serves a specific purpose
• Layered: Products work together synergistically
• Customizable: Adapted to your unique skin type and concerns
• Sustainable: Simple enough to follow consistently
• Effective: Delivers visible, lasting results

Aleppo soap is the perfect foundation for a complete face routine. Its gentle yet effective cleansing, combined with nourishing olive and laurel oils, creates an ideal base for treating specific skin concerns and maintaining long-term skin health.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn how to build a complete Aleppo-based face routine tailored to your skin type and goals, from cleansing to treatment to moisturizing.

Understanding Your Skin Type: The Foundation of Routine Building

Before building your routine, you need to understand your skin type. This determines which products and steps will work best for you.

The Five Main Skin Types

Oily Skin

Characteristics:

• Shiny appearance, especially in the T-zone
• Enlarged pores
• Prone to breakouts and congestion
• Feels greasy by midday

Routine Needs:

• Effective cleansing to remove excess oil
• Lightweight, non-comedogenic products
• Minimal heavy moisturizers
• Possibly exfoliation to prevent pore clogging

Dry Skin

Characteristics:

• Tight, uncomfortable feeling
• Flaky or rough texture
• Dull appearance
• Prone to sensitivity and irritation

Routine Needs:

• Gentle, non-stripping cleansing
• Rich moisturizers and nourishing serums
• Hydrating treatments
• Barrier-supporting products

Combination Skin

Characteristics:

• Oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin)
• Normal to dry cheeks
• Mixed pore sizes
• Variable breakout patterns

Routine Needs:

• Balanced cleansing that doesn't over-dry or over-oil
• Lightweight hydration
• Targeted treatments for different zones
• Flexibility to adjust products seasonally

Sensitive Skin

Characteristics:

• Easily irritated by products or environmental factors
• Prone to redness and reactivity
• May have conditions like rosacea or eczema
• Reacts to fragrances, essential oils, and strong actives

Routine Needs:

• Minimal, gentle products
• Fragrance-free formulations
• Barrier-supporting ingredients
• Slow introduction of new products

Normal Skin

Characteristics:

• Balanced oil and moisture
• Few breakouts or sensitivity issues
• Even texture and tone
• Healthy appearance

Routine Needs:

• Maintenance-focused routine
• Balanced cleansing and moisturizing
• Preventative treatments
• Flexibility to address occasional concerns

Step 1: Cleansing with Aleppo Soap

Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine. It removes:

• Makeup and sunscreen
• Sweat and sebum
• Environmental pollutants and bacteria
• Dead skin cells
• Residue from previous products

Without proper cleansing, no other products can work effectively.

Why Aleppo Soap for Cleansing?

Aleppo soap is ideal for facial cleansing because it:

• Cleanses effectively without harsh sulfates
• Respects the skin barrier by not stripping all natural oils
• Maintains pH balance better than many commercial cleansers
• Contains nourishing oils that support skin health
• Works for all skin types with the right laurel percentage
• Is minimalist with just a few pure ingredients

Choosing Your Aleppo Soap Strength

The laurel oil percentage affects how the soap works for your skin type:

For Oily Skin: Medium to high laurel percentage (15–25%)

• Provides more antimicrobial action to control bacteria
• Helps balance excess oil production
• Still gentle enough for daily use

For Dry Skin: Lower to medium laurel percentage (5–15%)

• Very gentle and nourishing
• Doesn't strip away protective oils
• Supports barrier repair

For Combination Skin: Medium laurel percentage (15–20%)

• Balances oily and dry areas
• Provides enough antimicrobial action without over-drying
• Works well for most combination skin types

For Sensitive Skin: Lower laurel percentage (5–10%)

• Very gentle and minimally irritating
• Supports barrier repair
• Less likely to trigger reactions

For Normal Skin: Medium laurel percentage (15–20%)

• Provides balanced cleansing
• Offers antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits
• Maintains skin health

How to Cleanse with Aleppo Soap

Morning Cleanse (1–2 minutes):

1. Rinse your face with lukewarm water
2. Wet the Aleppo soap bar and your hands
3. Work a soft lather in your hands (avoid rubbing the bar directly on your face)
4. Gently massage the lather onto your face and neck for 20–30 seconds
5. Pay attention to the T-zone and any areas prone to congestion
6. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
7. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel (don't rub)

Evening Cleanse (2–3 minutes):

1. If wearing makeup or sunscreen, first use a gentle oil cleanser or micellar water to remove it
2. Follow with Aleppo soap as your second cleanse
3. Wet the soap and your hands
4. Work a lather and massage onto your face and neck for 30–45 seconds
5. Take extra time on areas prone to congestion or breakouts
6. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
7. Pat dry gently

Pro Tips:

• Use lukewarm water, not hot (hot water strips the skin barrier)
• Don't over-lather; a gentle lather is sufficient
• Avoid scrubbing or rubbing harshly
• Cleanse for 20–45 seconds; longer isn't better
• Pat dry rather than rubbing to minimize irritation

Step 2: Toning (Optional but Beneficial)

Toning is an optional step that can enhance your routine's effectiveness. A toner:

• Restores pH balance after cleansing
• Hydrates and prepares skin for serums
• Removes any remaining impurities
• Can deliver additional active ingredients

Types of Toners

Hydrating Toners

• Best for: Dry, sensitive, and normal skin
• Benefits: Add hydration, soothe irritation
• Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, rose water
• How to use: Apply with a cotton pad or by gently pressing into skin

Exfoliating Toners

• Best for: Oily, combination, and acne-prone skin
• Benefits: Remove dead skin, unclog pores, brighten
• Ingredients: AHAs (glycolic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid)
• How to use: Apply with a cotton pad; use 2–3 times per week (not daily)

Balancing Toners

• Best for: Combination skin
• Benefits: Balance oil and hydration
• Ingredients: Witch hazel, niacinamide, botanical extracts
• How to use: Apply with a cotton pad or by pressing into skin

How to Use Toner in Your Routine

1. Cleanse with Aleppo soap and pat skin dry
2. Apply toner with a cotton pad or by gently pressing into skin
3. Wait 1–2 minutes for absorption
4. Proceed to serums and moisturizers

Note: Toning is optional. If your skin is very sensitive or you're just starting a routine, you can skip this step and move directly to serums.

Step 3: Treatment Products (Serums and Actives)

Treatment products address specific skin concerns. They're applied after cleansing (and toning, if you use it) and before moisturizing.

Common Treatment Products and Their Uses

Vitamin C Serum

Best for: All skin types, especially dull or aging skin
Benefits: Brightens, supports collagen, antioxidant protection
How to use: Apply to damp skin after cleansing; wait 1–2 minutes before moisturizing
Frequency: Daily (morning is ideal)
Caution: Can be irritating; start with lower concentrations

Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Best for: All skin types, especially dry or dehydrated skin
Benefits: Hydrates, plumps fine lines, supports barrier
How to use: Apply to damp skin; layer under moisturizer
Frequency: Daily, morning and evening
Note: Works best on damp skin; apply before moisturizer dries

Niacinamide Serum

Best for: Oily, combination, and acne-prone skin
Benefits: Strengthens barrier, reduces redness, minimizes pores
How to use: Apply after cleansing; layer with other serums
Frequency: Daily, morning and evening
Benefit: Works well with Aleppo soap's barrier-supporting properties

Retinoid (Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, Prescription Retinoids)

Best for: Aging skin, acne-prone skin, texture concerns
Benefits: Increases cell turnover, supports collagen, reduces fine lines
How to use: Apply to completely dry skin in the evening; start 2–3 times per week
Frequency: 2–5 times per week (build up gradually)
Caution: Can cause irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity; introduce slowly

Peptide Serum

Best for: Aging skin, loss of firmness
Benefits: Supports collagen production, improves firmness
How to use: Apply after cleansing; layer with other serums
Frequency: Daily, morning and evening

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Best for: Oily, acne-prone, congested skin
Benefits: Exfoliates inside pores, prevents breakouts
How to use: Apply to clean, dry skin; use 2–3 times per week initially
Frequency: 2–5 times per week (don't overuse)
Caution: Can be drying; use with moisturizer

Glycolic Acid (AHA)

Best for: Dull, textured, or aging skin
Benefits: Exfoliates surface, brightens, improves texture
How to use: Apply to clean, dry skin; use 2–3 times per week initially
Frequency: 2–5 times per week
Caution: Can be irritating; introduce slowly

How to Layer Treatment Products

The general rule is to apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency:

1. Cleanse with Aleppo soap

2. Tone (optional)

3. Apply serums in order of consistency (thinnest first)

• Vitamin C serum
• Hyaluronic acid serum
• Niacinamide serum
• Peptide serum

4. Apply actives (if using)

• Retinoids (evening only)
• Exfoliating acids (2–3 times per week)

5. Moisturize

6. Apply sunscreen (morning only)

Important: Don't use all of these at once. Start with one or two treatment products and add more gradually as your skin adjusts.

Step 4: Moisturizing

Moisturizing is essential for all skin types. Even oily skin needs hydration and barrier support. A good moisturizer:

• Hydrates the skin
• Supports barrier function
• Reduces sensitivity and irritation
• Locks in previous products
• Provides a base for sunscreen

Types of Moisturizers

Lightweight Hydrating Moisturizers

Best for: Oily, combination, and normal skin
Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, ceramides
Texture: Gel or lotion
Benefits: Hydrate without feeling heavy or greasy
How to use: Apply to damp skin after serums

Rich Nourishing Moisturizers

Best for: Dry, sensitive, and aging skin
Ingredients: Ceramides, peptides, oils, butters
Texture: Cream or balm
Benefits: Provide deep nourishment and barrier support
How to use: Apply to damp skin; use more generously than lightweight moisturizers

Barrier-Repair Moisturizers

Best for: Compromised or irritated skin
Ingredients: Ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids, centella asiatica
Texture: Cream
Benefits: Specifically formulated to repair and strengthen the barrier
How to use: Apply to damp skin; can be used morning and evening

Night Creams

Best for: All skin types, especially dry or aging skin
Ingredients: Richer formulations with oils, butters, peptides
Texture: Thicker than day moisturizers
Benefits: Provide intensive nourishment during sleep
How to use: Apply as the last step of evening routine

How to Moisturize Properly

1. Apply to damp skin: Slightly damp skin helps lock in hydration
2. Use the right amount: A pea-sized amount for the face; adjust based on skin type
3. Warm it up: Rub the moisturizer between your palms before applying
4. Press, don't rub: Gently press the moisturizer into your skin
5. Include neck and décolletage: These areas age quickly and need care too
6. Wait before sunscreen: Let moisturizer set for 1–2 minutes before applying sunscreen

Step 5: Sunscreen (Morning Only)

Sunscreen is the most important anti-aging product. UV damage causes:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Age spots and uneven tone
• Loss of elasticity
• Skin cancer risk

Daily sunscreen use is non-negotiable for healthy, youthful-looking skin.

Types of Sunscreen

Chemical Sunscreens

• Absorb UV rays and convert them to heat
• Lighter texture, easier to apply
• May cause irritation in sensitive skin
• Need to be applied 15 minutes before sun exposure

Physical/Mineral Sunscreens

• Reflect UV rays away from skin
• Better for sensitive skin
• May leave a white cast
• Work immediately upon application

How to Use Sunscreen

1. Apply after moisturizer has set (1–2 minutes)
2. Use enough product (about 1/4 teaspoon for face)
3. Apply evenly to face, neck, ears, and any exposed areas
4. Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors
5. Use SPF 30 minimum; SPF 50+ is ideal

Note: Sunscreen is the final step of your morning routine. Don't apply anything after it, as it will reduce its effectiveness.

Complete Routine Examples by Skin Type

Routine for Oily Skin

Morning (6–8 minutes):

1. Cleanse with medium-high laurel Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
2. Apply hydrating toner (1 min)
3. Apply vitamin C serum (2 min)
4. Apply lightweight hydrating moisturizer (1 min)
5. Apply sunscreen SPF 50+ (1 min)

Evening (8–10 minutes):

1. Remove makeup with micellar water (2 min)
2. Cleanse with Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
3. Apply exfoliating toner with salicylic acid (2–3 times per week) (2 min)
4. Apply niacinamide serum (2 min)
5. Apply lightweight moisturizer (1 min)

2–3 Times Per Week:

• Replace niacinamide serum with retinol serum in evening

Routine for Dry Skin

Morning (6–8 minutes):

1. Cleanse with low-medium laurel Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
2. Apply hydrating toner (1 min)
3. Apply hyaluronic acid serum (2 min)
4. Apply rich nourishing moisturizer (1 min)
5. Apply sunscreen SPF 50+ (1 min)

Evening (8–10 minutes):

1. Remove makeup with oil cleanser (2 min)
2. Cleanse with Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
3. Apply hydrating toner (1 min)
4. Apply hyaluronic acid serum (2 min)
5. Apply rich nourishing moisturizer (1 min)
6. Apply facial oil or night cream (1 min)

2–3 Times Per Week:

• Add peptide serum before moisturizer

Routine for Combination Skin

Morning (6–8 minutes):

1. Cleanse with medium laurel Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
2. Apply balancing toner (1 min)
3. Apply vitamin C serum (2 min)
4. Apply lightweight hydrating moisturizer (1 min)
5. Apply sunscreen SPF 50+ (1 min)

Evening (8–10 minutes):

1. Remove makeup with micellar water (2 min)
2. Cleanse with Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
3. Apply balancing toner (1 min)
4. Apply niacinamide serum (2 min)
5. Apply lightweight moisturizer (1 min)

2–3 Times Per Week:

• Replace niacinamide with retinol in evening

Routine for Sensitive Skin

Morning (5–7 minutes):

1. Cleanse with low laurel Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
2. Apply hydrating toner (1 min)
3. Apply hyaluronic acid serum (1–2 min)
4. Apply barrier-repair moisturizer (1 min)
5. Apply sunscreen SPF 50+ (1 min)

Evening (6–8 minutes):

1. Cleanse with low laurel Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
2. Apply hydrating toner (1 min)
3. Apply hyaluronic acid serum (1–2 min)
4. Apply barrier-repair moisturizer (1 min)
5. Apply soothing facial oil (optional) (1 min)

Note: Avoid actives like retinoids and exfoliating acids. Focus on barrier repair and gentle hydration.

Routine for Normal Skin

Morning (6–8 minutes):

1. Cleanse with medium laurel Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
2. Apply hydrating toner (1 min)
3. Apply vitamin C serum (2 min)
4. Apply lightweight moisturizer (1 min)
5. Apply sunscreen SPF 50+ (1 min)

Evening (8–10 minutes):

1. Remove makeup with micellar water (2 min)
2. Cleanse with Aleppo soap (1–2 min)
3. Apply hydrating toner (1 min)
4. Apply peptide or hyaluronic acid serum (2 min)
5. Apply moisturizer (1 min)

2–3 Times Per Week:

• Add retinol serum in evening

Tips for Building and Maintaining Your Routine

Start Simple, Build Gradually

Don't try to implement a complex routine overnight. Instead:

1. Week 1: Establish cleansing with Aleppo soap and basic moisturizing
2. Week 2–3: Add a toner if desired
3. Week 4–6: Introduce one treatment serum (like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid)
4. Week 7–8: Add another treatment product if your skin is tolerating the first one well
5. Week 9+: Introduce actives like retinoids or exfoliating acids (if appropriate for your skin)

This gradual approach allows your skin to adjust and helps you identify which products work best for you.

Introduce New Products One at a Time

When adding a new product:

• Introduce only one new product at a time
• Wait 1–2 weeks before adding another
• This helps you identify which products cause reactions
• If irritation occurs, stop the new product and return to your previous routine

Be Consistent

Skincare results take time. Most people see noticeable improvements within:

• 2–4 weeks: Hydration and comfort improvements
• 4–8 weeks: Visible texture and tone improvements
• 8–12 weeks: Significant anti-aging or acne-fighting results

Consistency is more important than perfection. Using a simple routine every day is better than a complex routine used sporadically.

Adjust Seasonally

Your skin's needs change with the seasons:

• Summer: May need lighter moisturizers and more frequent sunscreen reapplication
• Winter: May need richer moisturizers and more hydrating serums
• Spring/Fall: Transition periods; adjust gradually

Listen to Your Skin

Your skin will tell you what it needs:

• Tight, uncomfortable feeling: Need more hydration
• Shiny, congested: May need lighter products or more frequent exfoliation
• Red, irritated: Reduce active ingredients and focus on barrier repair
• Dull, textured: May benefit from gentle exfoliation or more antioxidants

Adjust your routine based on how your skin feels and looks.

Don't Overdo It

More products don't equal better results. In fact, overloading your skin with too many actives can:

• Damage the barrier
• Cause irritation and sensitivity
• Lead to worse skin than when you started

A simple, consistent routine with quality products beats a complex routine with mediocre products.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Using Water That's Too Hot

Hot water strips the skin barrier. Always use lukewarm water for cleansing.

Mistake 2: Over-Cleansing

Cleansing more than twice daily or using harsh cleansers damages the barrier. Stick to morning and evening cleansing with Aleppo soap.

Mistake 3: Skipping Moisturizer

Even oily skin needs hydration and barrier support. Don't skip this step.

Mistake 4: Introducing Too Many Products at Once

This makes it impossible to identify which products work and which cause problems. Add one product at a time.

Mistake 5: Using Actives Too Frequently

Retinoids and exfoliating acids are powerful. Using them too often causes irritation and barrier damage. Follow recommended frequencies.

Mistake 6: Forgetting Sunscreen

Sunscreen is the most important anti-aging product. Don't skip it, even on cloudy days.

Mistake 7: Expecting Overnight Results

Skincare takes time. Give products at least 4–6 weeks before deciding if they work.

Mistake 8: Not Adjusting for Skin Changes

Your skin changes with age, hormones, seasons, and stress. Adjust your routine accordingly.

Conclusion: Your Complete Aleppo-Based Routine Awaits

Building a complete skincare routine doesn't have to be complicated. It starts with a solid foundation, Aleppo soap, and builds from there with targeted treatments and nourishing moisturizers.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and choosing products tailored to your skin type, you can create a routine that:

• Cleanses effectively without damaging your barrier
• Addresses your specific skin concerns
• Maintains long-term skin health
• Delivers visible, lasting results

Start with Aleppo soap. Add one treatment product. Moisturize consistently. Use sunscreen daily. That's the foundation of a successful skincare routine.

Your skin will thank you.

FAQ

1. Can Aleppo soap be used as the only cleanser in a full skincare routine?

Yes. Aleppo soap works well as the primary cleanser in a complete routine because it removes impurities without stripping the skin barrier, making it compatible with serums, treatments, and moisturizers that follow.

2. Should I use Aleppo soap once or twice a day on my face?

Most people can use Aleppo soap twice daily—morning and evening. If your skin is very dry or sensitive, you may prefer using it once daily (evening) and rinsing with water in the morning.

3. Do I still need a moisturizer if I use Aleppo soap?

Yes. Aleppo soap supports the skin barrier but does not replace a moisturizer. Applying a moisturizer after cleansing helps lock in hydration and maintain long-term skin health for all skin types.

4. Can Aleppo soap be used with active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C?

Yes. Aleppo soap pairs well with active ingredients because its gentle cleansing helps reduce irritation and improves tolerance to treatments like retinoids, vitamin C, niacinamide, and exfoliating acids.

5. What is the most common mistake when building an Aleppo-based routine?

The most common mistake is adding too many products too quickly. A successful Aleppo-based routine starts simple—cleanse, moisturize, and protect—then gradually adds treatments as the skin adjusts.