Whether you’re a newbie or a skincare veteran, we all want the same thing: To know the secrets to clear and radiant skin. I’m sure that most of us already do the basics such as drinking enough water, washing your face before going to bed (or better yet, taking a quick shower), and staying away from bad habits that could result in breakouts. But there’s always that niggling feeling that you could do more.
The skincare industry can be confusing, even to beauty enthusiasts. It seems like there are dozens of new products being released every week and ads full of highfalutin marketing buzzwords, which makes it more difficult to choose what products you really need. You could always get lip injections, but other people prefer less invasive methods.
1. Know your skin type
The first step to developing a skincare regime is to determine your skin type. If you use the wrong products for your skin type, you could upset your skin’s equilibrium and cause rashes, breakouts, inflammation, and even accelerated aging.
Most people fall under the following skin types: dry, mature, normal, acne-prone, and oily. These categories aren’t in stone and your skin type can vary throughout the year. You can also fall under more than one category so make sure to consult a dermatologist to determine your real skin type.
2. Know how to do skincare in order
You need to apply your beauty products in the correct order to ensure they get fully absorbed by your skin. As a rule of thumb, you need to apply the lightest and thinnest liquids first before moving on to the heavier creams. Wait a few minutes between product applications to ensure maximum absorption.
For instance, one typical skincare routine format goes like this: Start with washing your face with a cleanser. If you use a face mask or exfoliator, use it after the cleansing stage. Next, apply toner to remove impurities from the skin. Then in the following order, apply your serum, then your face oil. Wrap things up with the face cream and eye cream.
3. Apply products sparingly
Many people think that the more skincare products they use, the better. But when it comes to skincare, you want to be selective with the products you use. If you apply too much of a product, you’re just throwing money away. It could even lead to clogged pores. You only need to use a tiny amount (think pea-sized) when applying skincare products.
4. Throw away old products
Some people swear that you can still use products past their expiration date. That may be true for certain items, but it’s a giant no-no for skincare products. Bacteria love to grow in beauty products, and after a while, they could produce harmful toxins that damage your skin. Always check the container for the expiration date. Lipsticks and foundation are usually good for 1 to 2 years while products with active ingredients such as sunscreen can last for up to 6 months.
These pointers will help you take better care of your skin. While you’re free to create your own skincare routine, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist first if you have a skin condition. And don’t forget to keep your body clean and free of toxins.
