We Tried The Viral CSMS Routine & Here’s The Verdict On The Results

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Now that we’re in the last leg of the festive and wedding season (finally!), and had a second to catch our breath, the first thing we had to take stock of was the impact the harsh winters (and partying non-stop) had on our skin these past few months.

And to ensure extra hydration and impactful treatment, and cut the deadweight, we decided to go back to the enhanced skincare routine we discovered all thanks to Nykaa — the CSMS (Cleanser-Serum-Moisturiser-Sunscreen) routine.

In a study, Nykaa found out that more than 60% of women follow an incomplete skincare routine. So naturally, they collaborated with 100+ dermatologists across India and finally created CSMS (Cleanser-Serum-Moisturiser-Sunscreen), a skincare routine suitable for Indian skin types and guarantees a hassle-free #4StepGlow.

Our LBB Crew tried out the routine and here's how it impacted the skin concerns we each have.

For Pigmentation

Cleanser: Nykaa Naturals Face Wash

Nykaa Naturals Sandalwood & Orange Peel Face Wash

Nykaa Naturals Sandalwood & Orange Peel Face Wash

139
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The sandalwood and orange variant of Nykaa Naturals' gentle exfoliator is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, and helps with de-tanning the face, and brightening skin tone without being harsh. If you're wary of face washes that strip your skin off its natural moisture when you use them, you can put them to rest as this one is as hydrating and effective as they come.

Serum: The Derma Co Niacinamide Serum

The Derma Co. 10% Niacinamide Face Serum

The Derma Co. 10% Niacinamide Face Serum

599
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The Derma Co won my heart with their elite sunscreen formulations, and this serum is no less when it comes to the quality of the formula. Niacinamide is a great ingredient to include in your skincare routine, as it not only helps reduce dark spots and even the skin tone, but it is also hydrating and excellent for dry skin season.

Moisturiser: Neutrogena Bright Boost Gel Cream

Neutrogena Bright Boost Gel Cream

Neutrogena Bright Boost Gel Cream

1240
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Neutrogena's moisturisers have a very dedicated and loyal fan base, and as someone who has been an ardent fan of the hydro boost, I am happy to count myself as one of them. The Bright Boost Gel Cream has ingredients that moisturise and exfoliate, so it is perfect for those who like to keep their pores in check. The star ingredient of the formula is Neoglucosamine which is an amino sugar that helps increase cell turnover rate and ensures faster skin regeneration. This makes it the perfect ingredient for treating dark spots and uneven skin tone.

Sunscreen: Cetaphil SPF 50 Sun Gel

Cetaphil Sun SPF 50 Light Gel

Cetaphil Sun SPF 50 Light Gel

1080
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There is no skincare routine on this planet that couldn't benefit from some Cetaphil goodness. The products are simple and straightforward, and good for those who like simplified skincare routines. This sunscreen suits all skin types, and the SPF 50 helps protect the skin from sun damage. As we all know, sunscreen is the most effective form of anti-ageing, and no amount of treatment would be effective if we skip this step.

For Acne

Cleanser: Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser

649
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Acne-prone skin tends to be sensitive, and even the most basic skincare steps, such as cleansing need to be done with cognisance. The oily skin cleanser by Cetaphil is gentle yet effective, it removes the dirt and excess sebum production from the pores without causing abrasions on the skin. The formula also contains Niacinamide, which gently exfoliates the skin without stripping off all its moisture. This product comes highly recommended from dermatologists across the globe, and the payoff upholds all its claims!

Serum: The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution

The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution

The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution

1450
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Straight-forward and transparent formulations are what one can expect from The Ordinary's products, which, if you ask us, is even more appreciated when one has sensitive or oily skin. The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution comes packed with ingredients that will end your post-breakout woes. Very few of us are strangers to stubborn acne marks, and this formula is armed with all the ingredients you need to make them go away. NAG or n-acetyl glucosamine is a biotechnology-derived ingredient that is proven to effectively treat uneven skin tone and palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, a technology that targets uneven skin texture, delivering effective results on acne scarring and marks.

Moisturiser: Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5 Oil-Free Moisturizer

Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5, Oil-Free Moisturizer

Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5, Oil-Free Moisturizer

349
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If you've been on the hunt for a good, oil-free moisturiser that suits oily or sensitive skin, Minimalist's 10% Vitamin B5 Oil-Free Moisturizer should be on your radar. Vitamin B5 is excellent for sensitive skin as it promotes faster skin healing. This product will moisturise your skin without clogging your pores.

Sunscreen: Plum 2% Niacinamide Sunscreen

Plum 2% Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50

Plum 2% Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50

399
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An affordable, lightweight sunscreen that provides hybrid UVA and UVB protection, leaves on white cast, and feels like nothing on the skin? Sign us right up!

For Ageing Skin

Cleanser: L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel Cleanser

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid

379
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The only way to counter early signs of ageing is to ensure ample hydration and protection. No matter how potent a skincare routine, without ample hydration it will fall flat. Which is why we're fans of the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Gel Cleanser. Packed with the goodness of Hyaluronic Acid, which works best when paired with water, this is a hydrating cleanser that will make sure your skin is moisturised from the very beginning of your skincare routine!

Serum: Plum 1% Encapsulated Resveratrol & 7.5% Vitamin C Face Serum

Plum 1% Encapsulated Resveratrol

Plum 1% Encapsulated Resveratrol

699
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This serum works wonders on early signs of ageing by countering dullness, firming the skin, and making the skin tone more even. Vitamin C is a great addition to your night-time skincare routine as it helps revitalise your skin cells and give you a glow that only a life of no stress and endless vacations could.

Moisturiser: Olay Total Effects Night & Day Cream Combo

Olay Total Effects Night & Day Cream Combo

Olay Total Effects Night & Day Cream Combo

1848
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What's the first thing that comes to mind when someone says 'anti-ageing'? You guessed it, it's Olay. Such is the brand's word-of-mouth! The moisturiser duo comes packed with no-nonsense ingredients such as Vitamin C and Niacinamide that get the job (of hydration, evening the skin tone, and skin firming) done.

Sunscreen: Minimalist Multi-Vitamin SPF 50

Minimalist SPF 50 PA ++++ Sunscreen

Minimalist SPF 50 PA ++++ Sunscreen

399
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Minimalist's moisturising sunscreen is a lightweight formula that provides hydration as well as protection with SPF 50 and broad spectrum protection of PA ++++. It leaves no white cast and settles with a glowy sheen, perfect for those who want to achieve glowy, glass skin.

For Dullness

Cleanser: Plum Saffron & Papaya Gel Face Wash

Plum Saffron & Papaya Glow Bright Gel Face Wash

Plum Saffron & Papaya Glow Bright Gel Face Wash

249
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Those of us who love nani and dadi's nuskhay know the benefits of papaya and saffron for the skin. It's even better when all that goodness comes packed in a product. Plum's gel-based face washes leave the skin feeling bright, glowy, and hydrated while also being super gentle.

Serum: The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%

The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%

The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%

1348
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Our hunt for a trusty Vitamin C serum ended when The Ordinary brought us this gem. The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% is a Vitamin C serum that helps with brightening, dullness, and uneven skin tone. It is rich in antioxidants which helps revitalise the skin and make it look instantly brighter.

Moisturiser: The Derma Co. 5% Cica-glow Moisturizer

The Derma Co. 5% Cica-glow Moisturizer

The Derma Co. 5% Cica-glow Moisturizer

349
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While we have a lot to be thankful to K-beauty for, Cica happens to be high up on that list. The Derma Co.'s Cica-glow Moisturizer will leave your skin feeling fresh and supple as a baby's, providing the extra hydration it needs to look glowy and energised.

Sunscreen: Lakme Sun Expert

Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 PA+++ Ultra Matte Lotion Sunscreen

Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 PA+++ Ultra Matte Lotion Sunscreen

550
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Dullness in skin is often aggravated by sun damage, and a strong sunscreen will help you ward it off. And of course, nothing comes close to the OG of all sunscreens for this.
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economics student turned full-time beauty & opinion writer and now editor at LBB; talks about books, cruelty-free beauty and active living (she/they)