Daily skincare habits you need for healthy, vibrant skin
We get it – you’re busy. You want a skincare routine that’s quick and simple, but it also needs to be effective. Fortunately, it is possible to have radiant, healthy skin without spending hours caring for it every day. There are a few habits will really have an impact on the appearance of your skin that can easily be worked into your daily routine. Trust us, your skin will thank you for years to come.
Wash It…
It’s a no-brainer, but washing your skin every day is essential. To do it right, use lukewarm water. Steaming-hot water might feel fantastic, especially during the colder months, but it can dry out or irritate skin. Be gentle when washing, and avoid harsh scrubbing. When you’re finished, pat your skin dry rather than rubbing it, which can be damaging to the skin's top layer.
…with Cleanser
Rinsing skin with lukewarm water is a good start, but it’s not enough alone to get rid of makeup, oil and debris that can build up on skin every day. The purpose of a cleanser is to remove surface residue and allow the other products you use to work better. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends gentle, non-abrasive cleansers. Massage your cleanser softly into your skin with your fingertips, then rinse thoroughly when you’re done.
Use Sun Protection
Using a moisturizer with (broad spectrum) SPF 15 or highter is key to protect skin from long-term damage from the sun’s UV rays. Over time, sun exposure can increase your risk of skin cancer or premature skin aging. To keep your skin healthy, apply your SPF moisturizer to your face in the morning before you go out, and touch up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen on any exposed areas that you did not moisturize.
Exfoliate
An exfoliator removes dead skin cells that may have built up over time. Not everyone needs to exfoliate every day, though; pay attention to how often the appearance of your skin seems to look dull, and then look for the right product or consult your dermatologist
Moisturize
The AAD calls moisturizer one of the two most effective anti-aging products on the market, with the other being sunscreen. In addition to helping minimize the appearance of fine lines as you age, moisturizer can help your skin from drying out and help protect it from harsh weather. Use moisturizer according to the product directions, but at least once a day, especially if you struggle with dry skin.
And… that’s it! As your skin concerns evolve, you may want to develop a more advanced regimen that includes additional products, such as toner or eye cream. For everyday care, though, the advice above can help keep your skin looking bright and healthy with almost no fuss.
