The perfect skin care routine order
To have great-looking skin means you need to have a great skin care routine. Doing the same regimen with products that are effective for your skin type can help give you glowing, healthy-looking skin for a long time to come. If you’re unsure exactly which products you should be using and in what order, we’re here to help. Read on for our advice to help you navigate the vast world of skin care and create a routine compatible with your skin’s needs.
1. Know Your Skin Type
The best way to get the right skin care is to know your skin type and build a routine from there. See the questions below and pick which answer is most compatible with your skin. To get 100 percent confirmation on your skin type we recommend visiting a dermatologist.
Is your skin flaky and feels tight to the touch? You may have dry skin.
Do you have large pores and your skin tends to get shiny? You may have oily skin.
Is your skin prone to breakouts and highly reactive to products? You may have sensitive skin.
Are some areas of your skin dry while others are oilier and may have blemishes? You may have combination skin.
2. Cleanser
Now that we’ve helped you figure out your skin type we can move on to one of the most important steps in your skin care routine — cleansing. For dry, sensitive and normal skin the best cleanser is a gentle, non-foaming cleanser to wash off any build-up on skin’s surface. The product should be fragrance and alcohol-free so as to not irritate your skin. If your skin is very dry you may want to try a no-wash cleanser that’s milky and loaded with extra moisture. Micellar water is another great option, it lifts any dirt and make up off your skin without dehydrating it. It’s gentle and easy to use.
For oily and combination skin try using a product formulated to help regulate oil production. Again we recommend using something alcohol-free because alcohol can dry out your skin and cause your skin to produce even more oil, which is definitely not what you want to do.
3. Toner
Toner isn’t for everybody but it can be really helpful for combination or oily skin as it gives you a chance to neutralize the T-zone or blemished areas of your face and regulate oil production. Dab a little bit of alcohol-free toner on your T-zone after cleansing to make sure this area is perfectly clean and balanced.
4. Moisturizer
Every single skin type needs moisture, so you absolutely have to make moisturizer part of your routine. For dry skin you can look for something hydrating and nourishing; look for glycerin or ceramides formulated products to restore moisture. Normal skin requires a hydrating, light formula. For combination skin you should try to use a product specifically formulated for your skin type that can help regulate your oily T-zone but hydrate your cheeks which are drier. Oily skin — don’t avoid moisturizer! This will only further dry out your skin and cause it to produce even more oil-the opposite of what you want. Use an oil-free, oil-regulating formulated product that hydrates your skin.
Whatever you do, apply moisturizer directly after you’re finished cleansing to lock in moisture from your water or cleanser before it your skin dries.
If you’re applying moisturizer in the morning make sure to use a product with SPF. Sun exposure is the number one cause of skin damage, so protect yourself with a broad spectrum SPF 15 or higher.
5. Exfoliate
Once or twice a week you should exfoliate your skin to get rid of old skin cells that buildup on skin’s surface. Avoid products with sand or crystals as these can be too harsh for your skin causing further drying or oil production. Use a product with gentle exfoliating particles or a wet towel, which should be gently massaged over your skin.
6. Use A Mask Or Serum (Or Both)
Masks and serums are great because they can add a variety of high-power ingredients into your skin with big results. Apply at least once a week, ideally using a product formulated with antioxidants to help brighten, tighten, or just improve your overall complexion..