Let’s be real, the beauty industry today is far and wide… From toners to essences, to acids to exfoliants to face tools and so much more. And amongst this chaos, it can be overwhelming to find your own routine and products that work for your skin. So today, I’m zeroing in on the most basic of basic products one needs to build their routine and achieve better skin.
Most of these products can be found at drugstores and high-end retailers too but it’s honestly is dependent on your skin type, its needs and what you want your skin to look and feel like in the coming months.
1. A Cleanser
This is a must! I cannot stress enough how important a cleanser and cleansing your face is! Whether you have sensitive or combo skin, it’s ideal to use a gentle cleanser that still “washes” your face, taking away all the oil buildup and dirt and leaving it soft and fresh. Just make sure not to scrub too hard or wash your face multiple times in the day cause it can tend to become dehydrated.
When to use it: Once you wake up and right before you go to bed.
2. A Serum
Serums contain active ingredients like antioxidants or retinol and acids that benefit your skin’s overall health in a number of ways. Again, depending on your skin’s needs, its age, texture, you can pick the serum of your choice. Serums help in calming the skin, toning, firming, reducing redness, spots and improving the texture.
When to use it: Right after you cleanse. Depending on your needs, you can have a different serum for the day and a different one after your cleanse at night.
3. A Moisturiser
Whether your skin is dry or oily moisturisers should be used every time you wash your face, that is, once in the morning and at night. They add in an extra layer of hydration and care for the skin leaving it softer and supple. But again, it’s important to choose a good moisturiser depending on your skin type. For oily skin, one can use lightweight, oil-free or gel moisturiser. For dry skin use a product that contains hyaluronic acid as it’s an instant source of hydration.
When to use it: Right after you apply you serum as they are most effective after damp-ish skin to seal in the moisture and the active ingredients.
4. An Eye Cream
People who’ve hit that 25+ mark know what I’m talking about when I say that the skin around the eyes gets more fragile as we age… Because the skin around that region is so delicate, and because of the wear and tear due to makeup, and other eye products, the under eye bags are prone to dryness, wrinkles and show fatigue much quicker. Eye creams helps to address those issues and any puffiness and dark circles you may be facing. Look for green tea as an ingredient when it comes to picking out your eye cream.
When to use it: right after you’ve moisturised at night before getting into bed. Apply a generous layer under (and a light one over, on the lids) with your ring finger.
5. SPF
You’ve heard this before, but I’m going to tell you again, UV (A or B) exposure is the number one cause of spots, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and ageing. While some moisturisers come with SPF, it’s better to double up with sunscreen after as well.
When to use it: Every. Morning. Apply the sunscreen right before you leave the house and reapply every two hours if you’re in direct sunlight.
Remember, this isn’t going to solve or “fix” any skin issues your facing, it’s just going to keep your skin’s PH balance and texture in place as an everyday routine.
Happy skincare!
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