Rung 1 of 5 · OTC

Gentle skincare foundation

Everyone starts here — and many never need to climb higher.

A Evidence grade A$ · Last reviewed 21 May 2026 · edited by Maksym Burkhan

What's on this rung

  • Non-foaming, fragrance-free cleanser (lukewarm water only)
  • Ceramide-based moisturiser, morning and night
  • Mineral SPF 30+ (zinc/titanium) every single morning
  • Strip out actives, fragrance, and physical scrubs while the barrier heals

What to expect

A calmer, less reactive baseline over the first weeks. This rung alone keeps many mild cases in check and is the foundation every other rung sits on.

When to climb

If redness or bumps persist after 4 weeks of consistent gentle care, add an OTC active (Rung 2).