Skincare basics checklist

 

Skincare basics checklist

A good skincare routine is vital for all skin types and a good time devoted to your skincare routine can help you feel extra special. I am not a skincare specialist however over the years I have learnt a lot about skincare due to acne. Now I would not change anything about my acne experience since I researched about how to take care of my skin, nutrition, inflammation, exercise, hydration and the list goes on! x 

For anyone who loves skincare and anything related to beauty products or if you are new to skincare, this blog should provide a nice and easy insight into skincare x

1) Skin type

There are various skin types and the wrong product for your skin can show less results, no results or cause skin problems such as allergies or breakouts. It is easy for the eye the notice skin types such as dry, sensitive, normal and oily yet other skin types can be difficult to navigate around. For instance, skin types that overlap between two types such as dry and sensitive (these can be symptoms of eczema or rosacea). In addition, combination skin type where there is an oily t-zone (forehead and nose area) and the rest of your skin is normal.

2) Make-up remover

Recently, micellar waters and make-up remover oils are used by the majority due to social media trends. Micellar waters are better for normal to oily skin types and oil based removers are great for normal to very dry skin types. 

3) Cleanser

This seems like a pretty simple product to purchase and use however some people can often struggle to find the right cleanser. For example, if you have acne-prone skin, a product labelled for all skin types can cause breakouts therefore it is important to ensure your cleanser is non-comedogenic.

Also, how to use a cleanser is also vital. Many dermatologists recommend to massage a cleanser for 30-60 seconds as this ensures the cleanser is absorbed better particularly after wearing make-up. In addition, double-cleansing is important to make sure the make-up is completely removed.

4) Toner

There has been a long debate around whether toners are necessary. I think it is about finding the right toner as some toners can be too harsh for the skin. If you find most toners dry your skin out, rather than skipping this step you can purchase a hydrating toner.

5) Serums

Serums are like the decoration on top of a cake as serums further lock in any tailored needs for your skin type or skin's' needs. This step can be complicated as some serums have actives such as AHAs and BHAs. Whilst they benefit the skin, different actives must not be used together. To keep it simple in this blog, serums can help further thoroughly support your skin.

6) Moisturiser

Moisturisers have been around for so long yet a good moisturiser can be hard to find particularly for some skin types. If you have acne-prone skin, you know the struggle when it comes to moisturisers, it is important to look for non-comedogenic moisturisers. On the other hand, if you have dry skin, you need the opposite which are thick moisturisers. Although other skin types such as normal or combination may appear easier in finding the right moisturiser, I would advise watching out for harsh chemicals in some products. In the short-term you may not notice a difference yet in the long-term it can make a difference.

7) SPF

There is a medical debate around whether we need SPF and its impacts. My understanding is to avoid high sun exposures for long durations as much as possible. Many experts begin to provide advice as summer holidays approach. The general advice is to sunbathe for 20 mins maximum. Also, some SPFs products do provide the same information near the ingredients list.

8) Exfoliators

We use exfoliators once or twice week to help get rid of dead skin cells. Using an exfoliator daily is too harsh for the skin. However, some exfoliators are designed to be used daily and they are more gentle the skin. Therefore, you can find an exfoliator that usually is labelled as daily.

9) Masks

There are various types of masks from clay to sheet masks. This is where knowing your skin type is important like with cleansers and moisturisers. For example, if you have oily skin then you will benefit from a clay mask. If you have a dehydrates skin, a sheet masks tailored to boost your skin's' hydration is best for you

10) Lifestyle

This can sound repetitive as lifestyle is not the sole factor that leads to good skin however it is an important factor. Of course, the right products can have a great impact on your skin yet you will see less and slow results in comparison someone else who may not smoke, healthy balanced meals, exercise, sleep, low cortisol (stress), water and more. So if you want to maximise the results who may get from the products you are using then changing or improving lifestyle will help x

I always advise friends and family that if you can go to a skincare specialist then definitely go ahead! x 

Yet, I hope this blog provides a nice insight into skincare basics and perhaps even as a checklist for anyone new to their skincare journey! x