This is probably the biggest question someone may have when looking to start a skincare routine and taken. There is no "one size fits all’ to this question because everyone’s skin and DNA are not the same. You must take into consideration your daily lifestyle and habits will heavily impact what you see in the mirror. There are tons of products on the market, hundreds of YouTube videos on product reviews on what works and what does not work. Telling you to only use this moisturizer or use this cleanser. I hate to be the messenger of bad news but ultimately care for your skin is personal and find the right routine and products that might be right for you. While you are on this journey, you may find there may be several products that are the right fit for your skincare. So, when you are traveling through high traffic, of skincare keep a few things in mind.
Know Your Skin Type
Knowing your skin type is key to getting the results you want. Do you have normal skin, oily or acne-prone skin, sensitive skin, combination skin? Once you have an idea of what your skin type is, then it is much easier to zero in on products that fit your needs. Skincare products are not one size fits all. Do not buy into the hype of what is popular or what your best friend is using. Remember what may work for your friend, may not work for you. Also, if you used a product that was hyped up that you saw worked for someone else but did not work for you; does not mean it is not a good product, but a product that was not for you. Just remember to make sure all ingredients in your products are beneficial to your skin.
Be Consistent
The key to a great skincare routine is being consistent. We currently live in a world where everyone wants instant results or take that magic pill to lose 25lbs and that is just not the case. Everything you do that requires a routine takes time. It is the same with your skincare, it takes time. A new skincare routine or product usually takes at least six-eight weeks once or twice a daily to see a difference. Your skin will continue to look healthy, glowing, and hydrated if you do not give up on the routine. Doing a skincare routine is like having a gym membership, it only works if you do it and stays at it because you need time to reap the benefits.
Skincare basics
These are the three main steps you need to keep in mind when starting.
Cleansing — Washing your face.
Toning — Balancing the skin.
Moisturizing — Hydrating and softening the skin.
Face Wash
Washing your face is the most basic and essential step of any routine because our skin encounters the everyday elements of the earth such as environmental pollutants, dirt, and other factors each day so they must be gently removed. The key to a great routine is to wash twice a day with a cleanser to avoid clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Toner
A toner is a great way to balance out your skin ph. Balance after using a facial cleanser. Some cleaners may strip your face and leaving it overly dried out. Think of a toner being a skin supplement, it a shot of nutrients for the skin, helping the other products in your regimen absorb better, while still balancing your complexion.
Moisturizing
The final step in our three main steps to a skin routine. Moisturizing is a key factor in our daily routine because it helps to prevent water loss through the out layer of the skin. It locks in moisture and hydrate and softens the skin. A moisturizer is especially important as we age because our skin naturally loses the ability to retain moisture.
The Bonus Tip
Try to live a stress-free and healthy lifestyle. Believe it or not but stress wears on the face and breaks down the body. Drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, get your rest, meditate, or find ways to feel positive. The results will show.