No matter your cosmetic preferences or style, clear skin is always a top priority – after all, your complexion is the base for the rest of your makeup.

Achieving a flawless face takes more than a little soap and water, however. While everyone is different, there are certain solutions and even beverages that can help prevent pesky blemishes and breakouts. With these strategies and an optimal combination of products, anyone can bring out the best in their skin:

Banish impurities
The obvious first step in any skincare regimen is a cleanser, but which formula is best? It’s crucial to know your skin type – oily, combination, dry or sensitive – before choosing a product that will address your needs. Elle magazine noted that though it may seem like an oxymoron to clean your face with oil, cleansers with these ingredients are extremely effective at eliminating excess oil, as well as removing waterproof makeup. Plus, these formulas don’t strip your skin of moisture, which can cause glands to overproduce oil to compensate. JUARA – Rice Facial Cleanser contains gentle, effective cleansing agents, vitamin-rich Rice Bran and Candlenut Oil that can banish impurities while still maintaining hydration.

The way you apply cleanser is just as important as the product itself.  Dermatologist Dendy Engelman told Daily Makeover that rubbing the product on in a circular, upward motion enables the active agents to absorb faster and better.

Buff off dead cells
Exfoliation is key for a radiant complexion. However, those products with a gritty, sand-like texture can be rough on sensitive skin, causing visible irritation. Elle advised using an exfoliant that contains beta hydroxy acids or fruit enzymes, such as the Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant, which is fragrance-free and gentle enough for all skin types. By lifting off dead skin cells, you can prevent clogged pores, blemishes and blackheads.

Boost your skin overnight
It goes without saying that it’s crucial to use a makeup remover before you go to bed, but you should also consider a treatment that can enhance your skin while your sleep. Elle noted that retinol can be helpful, as it has the ability to decrease oil production at the source by making oil glands smaller. The source recommended smoothing on Philosophy Help Me Nighttime Retinol Treatment, which not only shrinks and deep cleans pores, but also helps to accelerate cell turnover.

Beauty detoxing
While going au naturel may seem difficult, sometimes your skin just needs a breather. Engelman suggested wearing no makeup for 24 hours once a week. This is especially important if your skin is prone to flaring up, because it’ll get a break from allergens, fragrances and other harsh ingredients.