Everyday your skin is exposed to dirt, oil, and other unwanted debris that can lead to serious skin problems if not properly taken care of. Your epidermis (the outermost layer of your skin) is protective layer that fights against the environment and it's important to keep it strong and healthy. This is why it's crucial to build a skincare routine that works well with you specific skin type.
We all have different skin types and our own little quirks, so your skincare routine is something personal, however, there are 3 steps that are crucial to maintaining a healthy and clear complexion: Cleansing, Toning, then Moisturizing (and it should always be done in this order).
Cleanse
This is the most crucial step –– washing your face. As we mentioned, every day your face collects dirt, bacteria, viruses, unwanted debris, and dead skin cells which can build up if not washed off. This can lead to clogged pores, serious acne, and can even make it difficult for other products to penetrate.
It’s also important you are using the right face wash for your skin type. You want to keep your skin’s pH levels balanced which enables sufficient water and product retention. Skin can be considered unbalanced if its pH levels are either too alkaline or too acidic. For an example, if you have dry and sensitive skin, it’s likely to be too alkaline so you want to stay away from bar saps and foamy cleansers. If you have oily skin and are prone to break outs, chances are your skin’s pH balance is too acidic. This means you want to stay away from over-exfoliating and face peels. Repeatedly disturbing the skin’s pH to a strong degree can lead to or worsen many problems, including common skin disorders.
Consider this chart when looking for the right cleanser for your skin type (according to skincare enthusiast Kari Molvar):
Tone
Toner isn’t exactly a necessary, but if you have oily skin or plugged pores this can be life changing. Unfortunately, cleanser doesn’t always fully clean your face so this is where toner comes into play. It helps remove any excess dirt, oil, make-up and dead skin cells that is lurking on your skin. This thin liquid contains nutrients that help the other products in your regimen absorb better, while still balancing your complexion.
When searching for the right toner for your skin type this is what you should look out for:
Acne-Prone Skin: Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid gently exfoliates and removes dead skin, while also increasing cell turnover and collagen production.
Dry Skin: Glycerin or Essential Oils
Glycerin has emollient-like properties that will soften the skin and essential oils also work great for dry skin as they nourish and smooth. However, if your skin is hypersensitive, essential oils can create contact dermatitis. Make sure to stay away from toners with alcohol in them, as it makes your skin even more dry.
Mature Skin: Aloe Vera or Vitamin C
Aloe soothes and moisturizes without breaking you out and vitamin C is rich in antioxidants, which target free radicals and protect the skin to help fight against aging.
Normal Skin: Coenzyme Q10 or Hyaluronic Acid
Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant and Hyaluronic Acid will replenish moisture, giving your skin a hydrated, softer look and feel.
Oily Skin: Bentonite Clay or Witch Hazel
Bentonite clay helps control shine and purify the skin, which is crucial for congested pores, while witch hazel is an ideal active ingredient for oily skin as it’s a natural astringent and can tighten your skin.
Sensitive Skin: Algae or Amino Acids
Algae has soothing qualities and contains amino acids, which work to detoxify and remove impurities that can irritate the skin.
Moisturize
Moisturizing is vital for healthy skin as it helps keep it soft and hydrated. As you get older it becomes harder for your skin to retain its natural glow and moisture, even more so if you have dry skin. Simple things like washing your face can strip your natural oils which is why it’s important to moisturize. “Everyone needs moisture, but the texture of your moisturizer will differ depending on your skin type” says Dr. Rachel Nazarian, a Manhattan dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group. There are four different moisturizers to consider: gel, lotion, cream and balm.
Oily Skin: Gel Moisturizer
This is is a water-based moisturizer that's lightweight and absorbs quickly so it doesn't leave your skin greasy and keeps your skin feeling clean and hydrated.
Normal/ Combination Skin: Lotion
The classic moisturizer and most people's go-to. Although still mostly water based, it has a creamier consistency and is more moisturizing than gel.
Dry Skin: Cream
Cream is a more oil based giving your skin the extra moisture it needs to stay hydrated. It also helps you achieve a more even skin tone.
Inflamed/ Sensitive Skin: Balm
Most balms are beeswaxed based which helps with inflammation and is considered wound-healing agent. It's also known to seal moisture and protect your skin from the environment.
Be Consistent!
Consistency is everything. If you are looking to improve your skin, do not expect to just that following your regimen for few days will automatically change your skins. Results are only seen through consistent use and a healthy diet. If you find yourself struggling to get all the nutrients you need through diet, you may want to consider taking supplements like Nouráge. Our supplements not only transform your hair but your skin as well. Full of skin-boosting nutrients, our formula fortifies the crucial outside layer of the skin while maintaining the dermal-epidermal junction– the key to creating a healthy complexion.
