Our skin types vary according to numerous hereditary and environmental factors, hence there isn’t a “perfect” skin care routine out there for all skin types. That being said, there are certain basic steps all of us can follow in order to get that glowing, healthy, naturally plump and beautiful, celebrity-like skin.
Our skin is a reflection of who we are, and how well we take care of ourselves. In this time and world, getting busy with our tough schedules and negligence towards what matters has become a norm. We hardly get time to give ourselves the pampering we deserve, and in doing so, our skin suffers the consequences of our laxity. Hence, it is mandatory to device a daily plan, whereby you devote minimal time, and get maximal results for your skin. Follow a few steps every day, and plan a good skin care regimen.
A good skin care routine may not necessarily incorporate expensive products, and maintaining healthy skin at an affordable price is quite possible. Just look for products that suit your skin type best, and adopt it to achieve advanced skin care. Because looking beautiful is something we ALL want for ourselves, but we’re hardly ever determined to enough to work for it. After all, good things don’t come easy. And if you want your skin to have that flawless, glowing look; you are going to have to stick to a routine of skin care that best suits your skin type and brings you maximum care and benefit in the shortest possible time. That being said, there’s no easy way out of this and you must not practice negligence as it will only harm your skin further.
The following steps can be adopted for a basic, easy skin care routine.
1. Skin type:
Before you do anything to your skin at all, KNOW your skin type. It is absolutely essential to verify what skin type have you been blessed with, because eventually, that will be reflected in your skin care regime. The products you buy, the things you apply, and the care you take; all will be a reflection of your skin type. Not all products suit everyone, hence better safe than sorry. You could have dry skin (that is rough and flaky), oily skin (that is greasy and susceptible to acne), combination skin (dry and oily in different areas),sensitive skin (susceptible to burning and itching and damage), or normal skin (the most blessed type; clear and acne free!). Reassess your kind, and start product hunting. There are many products in the market that claim to be suited to all kinds of skin types; but that may not necessarily be true. Furthermore, some skin types are allergic to certain ingredients and care must be taken before you incorporate them in your skin care regime. Test out products first to ensure what suits your skin best!
2. Cleansing:
Washing and cleansing your face depends on your skin type. If you have normal skin, you wouldn’t have to take extra care while selecting your facewash, cleanser or soap. Whatever you do, just don’t pick any available soap in the bathroom and start scrubbing on your skin. If you’re going to use soap, look for gentle soaps that have less chemicals in order to prevent skin damage. For sensitive skin, look for products that have a soothing effect, such as aloe vera or chamomile. Never scrub your skin too hard, or use too much water to rinse off, because that will rip your skin off the essential oils it requires to function and look healthy. Avoid using products that have alcohol or fragrances, as their harsh constituents can further damage your skin cells and make them more prone to wear and tear. Rigorously drying your face with a towel is also an ill practice. It is recommended to pat-dry.
3. Toner:
Applying a toner after washing your face can be life changing. A simple step, yet very effective. Toners are specifically advantageous to all those suffering from the terrors of oily and acne prone skin, as it rids the skin of dead skin cells, dirt, debris and refreshes and rejuvenates the skin. Apply a gentle toner after cleansing your skin, and marvel at the transformation your skin undergoes with just this one simple step! A true game changer for sure. Just dab a little toner on cotton pads, and apply it on your face and neck. Avoid ingredients like SD alcohol 40, denatured alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, ethanol etc. These ingredients are commonly found in toners but must be avoided as they can be more harmful than beneficial in the long run.
4. Moisturizer:
Contrary to popular belief, moisturizer is mandatory for ALL skin types. That’s right, even oily skin. Even if your skin doesn’t appear dry or flaky, adding moisturizer to your daily skin care routine is a must. It is specifically important to moisturize after you shower, as hot water strips you of the oils and moisture of the body. Moisturize must be used in all seasons, be it summers or winters. It coats your skin in a protective layer, and protects the skin cells from dying out early and resulting in anti-aging properties. There are many moisturizers available in the market that serve the dual purpose of moisturizing as well as sunscreen.
5. Sunscreen:
Perhaps the most important ingredient for a healthy, luminous, gorgeous skin is sunscreen. As much as it is neglected, it saves you from a whole lot of skin-related troubles. The harmful rays of the sun are penetrating enough to go deep within the layers of the skin, causing permanent damage and even leading to eventual development of skin cancer. Not only does the sun tan your complexion, it makes your skin appear overall dull and dim. Use sunscreen of SPF 30 at least.
6. Remove makeup:
I get it, removing makeup after a long night out can be nothing short of a drag. Nobody has the energy to grab those wipes and remove those traces of mascara. But trust me, those few minutes of laziness can cost you a lifetime of damage. Never go to bed with those layers of makeup, because they can clog your pores and make your skin acne prone. The debris of makeup can be devastating to your skin.
7. Acne:
Acne can be embarrassing and can definitely lower your self-esteem. Those pimples can be tempting to pop, but keep your hands away from them. Popping those zits will only spread the microorganisms that invade your skin further. You can use acne medications that suit your skin, and avoid foods that aggravate the problem.
