In the world of skincare, it can seem like there are a million different products and techniques to keep your skin in check. And while it might seem like everyone has their own special routine that you don’t have time for, the truth is that everyone should have a simple skincare routine they can stick to every day. From red light therapy to just plain washing your face with soap and water, finding a routine that works for your skin type, lifestyle, and budget is key.
For those just starting out on their own skincare journey, here is the ultimate guide to creating a healthy skincare routine.
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Wash Your Face
You want to start with the basics. And you can’t go wrong with just washing your face. This removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup that may be caked on your skin throughout the day. Make sure you use a gentle cleanser to avoid damaging or drying your skin. It’s also good to clean your face thoroughly, especially if you wear makeup. This will help prevent breakouts, blackheads, and clogged pores. Find a cleanser that works for your skin type and doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
Toner
Next, you’ll want to add a toner to your skincare routine. Toners are generally recommended for those with oily and combination skin types, as they help to balance oil production and keep pores clean. For those with dry skin, a toner may be too harsh. If you have super oily skin, you may want to skip using a toner as it may actually make your skin worse. Your choice will depend on your skin type, but most people can get by with a basic toner. A toner restores the pH level of your skin after washing, making it a great addition to almost any skincare routine. If your skin is on the oily side, a toner can help reduce the amount of oil your skin produces by gently exfoliating and tightening pores.
Exfoliate
No matter what your skin type is, you should be exfoliating. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and helps your skin look smoother and healthier. It also helps cleanse your pores, which can help prevent future breakouts. You should be exfoliating at least once a week, but it depends on your skin’s sensitivity. Exfoliating too often can actually dry out your skin, so be careful not to overdo it. You want your skin to be smooth, not red and raw. Some people exfoliate with a scrub like a washcloth, which can be a great way to get rid of dead skin cells without buying a product.
Mask
There are tons of different types of masks you can use, from hydrating to peel-off, and even ones that are specific to particular skin issues. The most important thing to remember while shopping for a mask is to find one that matches your skin type. You also want to ensure you’re not allergic to any ingredients in the product. No matter what you go with, be consistent in your skincare routine. Finally, you want to be able to tell how your skin reacts to the mask and how often you should be using it. Masking is excellent for all skin types, even sensitive skin. It acts as a skin treatment that helps your skin feel hydrated, promotes clear skin, and helps with acne.
Don’t Forget The SPF
Looking after our skin is essential. It’s the biggest organ, after all. So you need to be using sunscreen. Every day, harmful UV rays can damage your skin, causing wrinkles, freckles, and even skin cancer. Make sure you use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and a broad spectrum. It is also a good idea to use a moisturizer that has an SPF in it. Moisturizers with SPF are designed to be applied over sunscreen to seal the protection. While you are definitely better off using a moisturizer with SPF than one without, don’t rely on it as your only source of protection.
Buy Quality Products
This is one of the most important tips for creating a skincare routine. Just because a product says it’s for your skin type doesn’t mean it actually is suitable for your skin. Make sure you’re investing in skincare products for your skin type. Quality goes for the ingredients too. Organic skin care products are a good option because they’re less likely to aggravate your skin. It’s also important to note that skincare products are like makeup — they expire. Check the expiration date on your products to see when you should throw them out. Like makeup, skincare products can go bad if they sit too long.