10 Skincare Basics Everyone Should Know
I have put together my favourite skincare rules. Here are 10 skincare basics everyone should know.
1. Know your skin type
Understanding your skin type will enable you to choose the products that works best for your skin. Your skin is unique and requires specific needs. Depending on whether your skin is dry, normal, oily, acne-prone or sensitive, you should choose products adapted to your problems.
2. Build a skincare routine
Learning how to layer your products the right way is important. Putting products in the wrong order might make them less efficient. The general rule is to apply the lightweight products first, then the thickest formulas at the end. So, start by double cleansing
The basic steps involve a:
- cleanser
- moisturizer
- sunscreen (only in the morning.)
You can add additional steps like a toner, booster or serum to treat some skin condition like acne, scarring or dehydration. The order should be:
- cleanser
- toner
- spot cream
- serum
- eye cream
- moisturizer
- oil
- SPF
Wait a couple of minutes after applying each product to let it sink into your skin. It will also stop them from pilling.
3. Double cleanse at night
This is one of the skincare basics everyone should know. Double cleansing is a cleaning method that involves washing your face twice. First with an oil-based cleanser and then you use a water-based cleanser. The first cleanse will dissolve the makeup and sunscreen on your skin and the second cleanse will clean your pores thoroughly, sweeping away any sebum, dirt leftovers.
4. Get rid of harsh cleansers
Sodium lauryl sulfate, fragrance, paraben and alcohols cleansers strip the skin of its natural oils and make destroy your skin barrier. Try to avoid these ingredients at all cost if you don’t want to damage your skin.
5. Always use a moisturizer
All skin type (even oily skin) need to use a moisturizer. A moisturizer will provide your skin with hydration, making your skin softer and healthier. A good moisturizer will act as an occlusive and lock the moisture in. Choose a lightweight moisturizer that is quickly absorbed by the skin. You can either use a cream or an oil.
6. Always use an SPF
ALWAYS USE A SUNSCREEN. This is one of the most important skincare basics. Many people skip this step but it helps protect you from the damage of UV rays. UVA rays are the most dangerous as they penetrate deep into your skin and cause long-term damage like wrinkles, destruction of collagen and skin cancer. UVB, on the other hand, cause sunburns, skin decoloration and skin cancer too. Apply sunscreen even if you are inside as UV rays can go through windows. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every 3 hours.
7. Exfoliation is important
An exfoliant is a great way to remove dead skin and brighten your skin. But it can be harsh so don’t overdo it. Always prefers a chemical exfoliant like AHA and BHA rather than the mechanical ones with beads or grains.
8. Tone your skin
A toner will get rid of any makeup or any residue. It should also balance your pH, calm your skin and prepare it to receive the next products. Choose a toner with gentle ingredients that will not disturb your skin pH balance rather than chemical ones.
You can make your own toner by mixing some apple cider vinegar with water.
9. Start using a serum
A serum is a concentrate of active ingredients mad to target specific skincare concerns. Using a serum is optional. Serums have a lightweight consistency so they do not clog pores. Choose a serum that targets your specific need. They are one for every skin condition: dull skin, ageing skin, scarred skin, dehydrated skin or acne-prone skin.
10. Stop touching your face
By doing this, you will transfer all the dirt from your hands to your face. Not only it clogs your pores, but it can also lead to breakouts.
