Are you looking to boost your skincare routine but not sure where to start? There is a lot of information out there and it can be overwhelming, which is why we’ve compiled our top skincare tips and where to start below.
Why have a skincare routine?
Skin is the largest organ in the human body and protects us from the weather, infections and toxic substances. It is very important that we take care of it by implementing a daily skincare routine to refresh, nourish and protect.
The goal of any skin-care routine is to tune up your complexion so it is functioning at its best, and troubleshoot or target any areas you want to work on. “Beauty routines are an opportunity to notice changes within yourself”.
It may sound daunting, but there are many benefits of having a skincare routine including:
- Improves your skin health by removing germs and dead skin.
- Prevent issues like acne, excessive oil, infection and disease.
- Slows down aging by improving strength and elasticity
- Boosts confidence
- Reduce stress levels by taking some time for yourself with self-care
Where to start?
The first step would be understanding your skin type, the most common being oily, dry, combination, acne-prone, sensitive and mature skin. Unsure on your skin type? Book an appointment with a skin specialist or spa for a consolation. It’s important to note that your skin type can change with the seasons and over time so you must always listen to your skin.
Ultimately, caring for your skin is deeply personal. Do your research, talk to a professional and find the products that work for you. Remember to give it time! There is no such thing as an instant fix; you need time and consistency to reap the benefits. Using a product once or twice daily it will take at least six weeks to notice the difference.
Think of your skin care-care routine as consisting of three main steps:
- Cleansing – Washing your face
- Toning – Balancing the skin
- Moisturising – Hydrating and softening the skin
Allow these three steps to become your daily ritual that fortifies your skin and grounds your day.
With any skin-care product, apply in order of consistency, from thinnest to thickest. Cleanser, toner (if used), serum and then finally moisturiser.
As your skin needs changes with age, so will your product.
Cleanse
Washing your face is the most basic and essential step of any routine. Your skin comes in contact with environmental pollutants, dirt and other factors which should be gently removed every day.
Wash twice a day, morning and night to avoid clogged pores, dullness and acne. Great skin is not simply a matter of DNA; your daily habits have a big impact on what you see in the mirror.
The right formula cleanses your skin without stripping essential heavy oils. Ultimately, caring for your skin is deeply personal.
Exfoliating scrubs are good but take it easy! Avoid abrasive ingredients, and once a week is fine!
Tone
Toners used to be stinging astringents, however today’s formulas have evolved. Think of them as supplements. These thin liquids deliver an extra shot of nutrients, helping the other products in your regimen be better absorbed, while balancing your complexion.
Toners should be used after cleansing and before putting on anything else.
Serums
Serums are powerful skin allies, filled with concentrated doses of active ingredients. These elixirs can mitigate a number of issues, from dark spots to wrinkles.
Even you if don’t have any specific issues, you still need a general antioxidant serum in the morning to protect from daily aggressors.
Remember not all serums are applied with the same frequency! They vary by their ingredients, some for morning others for night time.
Moisturise
The most basic function of a moisturiser is to hydrate and soften the skin, and prevent water loss through the skin’s outer layers. As we age, the skin naturally loses the ability to retain moisture.
Day creams applied in the morning are designed to protect your skin from the environment as many contain antioxidants and sunscreens that block the harmful effects of pollution-based free radicals.
Night creams focus on repairing and replenishing moisture levels and have a rich and thick texture.
Protect with SPF
Sunscreens are a very important skin-care product. They prevent the development of fine lines, dark spots, pigmentation and importantly the formation of certain skin cancers.
Experts recommend an SPF of at least 30 and some are already built-into your moisturiser. If your moisturiser does not include an SPF, the sun-screen can be applied on top of day cream and before your make-up. Remember to thoroughly cleanse your skin before applying your night cream.
Blog post written by Isabelle Neil – Spa Director
