Twelve-step Korean skin-care plans, complicated acne treatments, lasers, peels, masks, oh-my. It's enough to make even the most seasoned beauty girl's head spin. So let's bring it back to the basics, shall we? We asked top skin docs to weigh in on the only three products (plus one bonus add-on, for you overachiever types) you really need, no matter what your skin type. Finally, an easy way to figure out what skin-care products you should use -- and what you can skip.

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1. Simple cleanser: A basic face soap or wash will do; don't waste time searching for one with lots of added active ingredients. Not only does your skin not need it, but any money spent on these pricey formulations will, quite literally, be washed down the drain, points out Dr. Jordan Carqueville, MD, a dermatologist in Chicago. Save your moolah and pick-up a drugstore option, like the Dove White Beauty Bar, $5.49 for four bars, one of her faves.

2. Moisturizer with SPF: Everyone needs moisturizer, and sunscreen is a non-negotiable (repeat, non-negotiable), so why not combine the two? Look for a product labeled broad-spectrum (meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays) with at least SPF 30, and be sure to apply in an even layer across your entire face to ensure adequate protection. Try the new CeraVe Skin Renewing Day Cream with Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $22.99.

3. Basic night cream: When you don't have to stress about any kind of complexion imperfections, don't worry about using super potent night creams, just focus on straight-up hydration and opt for a rich moisturizer. Carqueville recommends Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream, $27.50.

Antioxidants aren't just good to incorporate into your diet ... they're an excellent choice to use topically, too. "They help protect your skin from the damaging free radicals caused by everything from sun exposure to pollution, making an antioxidant serum a worthwhile investment," explains Dr. Jessie Cheung, MD, director of Jessie Cheung Dermatology in Willowbrook, Ill. One to try: Juice Beauty Antioxidant Serum, $48.

When it feels like no amount of moisturizer is enough, focus on adding hydration via every step of your skincare routine. Start by seeking out these options:

1. Creamy cleanser: Make sure your face wash isn't further drying out your skin by using a creamy formula. Ideally, it should be soap-free, since excess amounts of detergents can be harsh and stripping to the skin, notes Carqueville. Her pick: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, $7.99. Cleansing oils are also a good choice.

2. Moisturizer with SPF: Getting moisture any way you can is smart, so go ahead and use a moisturizer with SPF, but take heed: "If your complexion is dry, you'll still want to layer a straight moisturizer on top, advises Carqueville. Try the new La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer UV Broad-Spectrum SPF 30, $19.99.

3. Moisturizer: "Not all moisturizers are created equal," says Jeung. "If you're super dry, look for ones that contain both humectants, like glycerin, that draw moisture to the skin, and occlusive ingredients like dimtethicone, that seal in that moisture." SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2, $125, fits the bill, and has the added benefit of skin-strengthening ceramides.

Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Hyaluronic acid is one of the best moisturizing ingredients out there; able to hold 1000 times its weight in water, it instantly makes skin look and feel more moisturized. In a serum like SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator, $178, it will deeply hydrate without feeling heavy, says Cheung.