For beginners, skincare products that agree with your skin is not straightforward for almost every individual. The journey is fun, and frustrating at the same time. It involves educated and calculated trial and error to find the routine for YOU.
Here are some points that may help you along your journey:
Cleanse
Endeavour to cleanse twice a day. Most dermatologists endorse a simple cleanser, double cleanse; if tolerated you can use an exfoliating cleanser such as salicylic acid, or AHA based cleansers with lactic acid. The former is exceptionally good for acne prone skin, oily skin, enlarged pores & blackheads.
Hydration
Skin experts emphasize the importance of hydration. A lack of water means less radiance. Dermatologists suggest choosing products (cleansing, moisturizing, and anti-aging) that have hydrating formulas. And, of course, drink around eight glasses of water a day. The best times to moisturize are right after you get out of the shower and also before you go to be.
Skin Type
Skin care has to be tailored to your skin type. Oily skin can co-exist with dry skin at the same time. There are four different types of skin: oily, dry, normal and combination. Knowing your skin type will help you put together a routine that suits your skin’s specific needs. Skincare routines and products will change with the seasons. If you have skin disorders like dermatitis or rosacea it adds to the complexity of skincare products.
Sunscreens and Antioxidants
As a general rule, start off with a non-foaming facial cleanser and a good sunscreen. As always, sunscreens form the foundation of PROTECTION.
Incorporating antioxidants such as nniacinamide, Vitamin E & ascorbic acid can further protect your skin from UV radiation & environmental pollution. Slowly add actives such as retinol , Vitamin B and C as well as skin antioxidants as you see fit. Topicals such as retinoids & skincare acids can rejuvenate skin, especially if combined with lasers & clinical strength peels.
Healthy Diet
Proper nutrition and a healthy diet is the foundation of every great skincare routine! Not even the best skincare products in the world will be able to completely make up for a shoddy diet. Feeding your body the nutrients and vitamins it needs to build that perfect skin you’re looking for is a prerequisite before you start worrying about what products to use.
Understand the Skincare Industry
Skincare is a multi-billion dollar industry. There are a lot of people out there that want to take your money in exchange for their products which may or may not actually work as intended. Don’t be frustrated in the early days of your journey, and above all don’t fall for the sales pitch of buying the complete range. This may suit some, but it is the exception rather than the rule.
Don’t fall for cheap buzzwords. Terms like “organic” and “natural”, are guidelines at best. They shouldn’t be trusted as much as what the ingredient list says in the back.