With the popularity of 12-step skincare routines and the introduction of new products every day, it’s difficult for beginners to tell which steps are essential. If you’ve set a goal to take skincare more seriously but don’t want to complicate things, follow these steps.
Cleansing
While most people wash their faces each morning, that’s not what we had in mind. Washing your face with harsh soap and splashing water around is not skincare! Start your skin routine by choosing a face cleanser by skin type.
For instance, those with acne-prone or oily skin should choose cleansers that remove impurities, dirt, and oil, and patients with dry skin are better served by moisturizing face washes. Before cleansing, remove dirt and sweat with a gentle facial wipe.
Wash your face morning and night for clear, healthy skin.
Exfoliation
This crucial step helps eliminate excess oil, remove dead skin cells, and get rid of deep-down dirt and oil.
Exfoliation reveals a bright, glowing complexion and it’s an essential step for clear and healthy skin. Choose a gentle scrub and use it at least twice a week to eliminate impurities such as sweat, oil, and dirt. Those with oily skin should consider exfoliating three times per week.
Toning
Even after a thorough cleansing, traces of oil, dirt, and sweat may remain. Furthermore, exfoliation and cleansing open the pores, which gives acne-causing bacteria a place to multiply.
Toners contain active ingredients that cleanse the skin thoroughly, remove bacteria, and balance the skin’s pH level. After cleansing, apply toner to a facial pad and blot your face gently. Use it twice per day to cleanse acne-prone, oily skin.
Serum Application
Mornings are a great time to use antioxidant-rich serums because they protect the skin from damaging free radicals, and nighttime is the best time to use moisturizing serums that contain hyaluronic acid.
No matter which serum you’re using, remember to use water-based products before moisturizing and apply oil-based serums afterward.
Spot Treatments
Most spot treatments fight acne, and it’s a good idea to use them at night as the skin repairs itself. Be careful when combining products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide with those containing retinol, as it may cause skin irritation.
Moisturization
Skin loses moisture when it’s cleansed and exfoliated.
Therefore, it’s important to moisturize immediately after cleansing. Whether your skin is oily, dry, normal, or sensitive, moisturization is a must. Moisturize morning and night, after using a cleanser and a toner.
SPF Application
From tanning and dark spots to premature aging, free radical damage is the primary cause of many skin issues. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, therefore, is one of the most crucial skincare steps you can take.
Sunscreen saves skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, which cause sunburn, pigmentation problems, and signs of aging. It also protects the skin from issues like skin cancer. After applying moisturizer, use a bit of SPF 30 or higher on the neck and face.
Apply sunscreen in the morning and reapply it several times throughout the day to prevent sun damage.
Take These Steps for Healthier Skin
Everyone’s skin is different, which means every person’s skincare needs are unique. While the order may vary, the above steps will resolve most issues and create healthier, clearer skin.