We’re always looking for newer, easier ways to make our skin look younger and healthier. Achieving that youthful look starts with building a strong dedication to a good skin care routine that involves cleansing, exfoliation, moisturizing and protection.
Determine Your Skin Type, Then Buy Your Cleanser
Before you buy any product, you need to first determine your skin type. Is it oily, normal, dry, sensitive or sun-damaged? Is a combination of two types? Learning what type of skin you have is the difference between buying products that will work and ones that won’t. It will also help you tailor your routine so you get the best results possible. A helpful tip for your wallet – expensive isn’t always better. Avoid cleansers such as bar soaps that will be over-drying no matter what your skin type is. A creamy cleanser works well for dry skin, and a clear cleanser works well for oily skin.
How Well Are You Cleansing?
After your products are purchased and are ready to be used, the next assessment is based on how often you wash your face. Cleanse too much and you’re only making things worse. Cleansing at night is sufficient enough for most people to wash out clogged pores. Consider how much product you are using as well. If you need an entire palm-full, you can cut back a bit. Actually, you can cut back a lot. You only need a dime-size amount to get the job done. Think about how much money you will save! Use cool or lukewarm water to rinse (never hot water!) and splash some water on your face in the morning if you think you need it as well.
Eyes Need Care Too
Remember that your eyes need attention as well when it comes to cleansing. Such a sensitive area needs sensitive treatment. Use a makeup remover before cleansing to loosen as much makeup as you can before washing your face. So many products are waterproof and have 24-hour staying power that sometimes it takes a little more effort to get everything off. This doesn’t mean scrub away until it’s all off. Be gentle when it comes to cleaning the area around your eyes. Avoid rubbing or pulling the skin around your eyes to avoid damage and irritation.
Is Exfoliation Part of Your Vocabulary?
If you’re not already exfoliating, you should be. Most people tend to skip this process, but it can do a lot for your skin. Make a weekly habit out of using a facial scrub. It will slough away all the dead skin cells on the surface so younger, newer skin can come through. In addition to purchasing at-home products, other popular exfoliation methods include microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and products with retinoids. In addition to its exfoliating properties, retinoids also build up collagen in the skin, which helps us to maintain our youthful look. Choose a scrub that will be gentle, and never exfoliate more than twice a week.
Skin Loves Moisture
The last thing you should do after cleansing is forget to moisturize, especially if you have dry skin. Your skin should never feel tight or dry to the point that it’s flaky. Find a basic moisturizer to apply after cleansing, and as with any product, it’s a plus if it has an SPF in it. Keep in mind that similar to over-cleansing, you can over-moisturize as well, leading to the clogging of your pores. If you have the right cleanser, you should only need to moisturize a little, if at all. When moisturizing, you should also apply an eye cream to give skin around the eyes a little added protection and strength.
It’s Always a Good to Use Sunscreen
Your last step should always (and we mean always) apply sunscreen. If you think you’ve heard it enough, you haven’t. Sun is the biggest offender when it comes to causing wrinkles. Use an SPF even on cloudy days and during the winter. Don’t have time to add another step to your beauty routine? To get around the time crunch (and save space) buy a moisturizer with sunscreen in it.
Who would have thought that the road to better, younger skin took four simple steps? With the right products and routine, you are on the way to healthier skin in no time. And trust me, you’ll never get tired of people asking you how you get that look!
