How to build a skin care routine
Whether you're already taking care of your skin or are looking for tips on how to start, it can be helpful to establish a regular skin care routine. Having a consistent routine can lead to healthy looking and glowing skin. But with so many products available and various steps to follow, it can be challenging to know where to begin. That's why we'll be discussing the order for recommended steps to help manage your skin care routine.
The importance of a skin care routine
Before we dive into the specifics, let's talk about why having a skin care routine is important. Your skin is the largest organ of your body, and it is exposed to various environmental factors, such as ultraviolet (UV) rays, pollution and free radicals. Not to mention, we all deal with the natural process of aging and hormonal changes. All of these factors can lead to dull, dry and damaged skin. However, by following a skin care routine, you can help protect your skin and limit the signs of aging.
The order to apply skin care products
Now that we've established the importance of a skin care routine, let's get into the order. The order that you apply your skin care products can affect how well your skin absorbs them and helps maximize the effectiveness of them. You also may want to check with your health care provider about which skin care products they would recommend based on your needs.
- Limpiador
- Tónico
- Serums and spot treatments
- Hidratante
- Protector solar
1. Cleanser
First, cleansing helps to remove any dirt, oil or makeup from your skin. There are various types of cleansers available, including cream, foaming, gel and oil-based formulas. Choosing the right type of cleanser depends on your skin type and concerns.
For instance, if you have oily skin, you may prefer a foaming cleanser that can help remove excess oil, like CeraVe’s foaming facial cleanser for normal to oily skin,. If you have dry skin, you may prefer a cream or oil-based cleanser that can help hydrate your skin, such as La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser.
To properly cleanse, start by wetting your face with lukewarm water. Apply a small amount of cleanser to your hands and gently massage it onto your skin in circular motions. Be sure to avoid harsh scrubbing, because you can cause damage. Rinse off the cleanser with water, and pat your face dry with a clean towel.
2. Toner
After cleansing, toners help balance your skin's pH levels, which can become unbalanced after cleansing. Toners can also help to remove any remaining dirt or oil from your skin.
Various types of toners are available, including hydrating, exfoliating and astringent toners. If you have oily skin, you may prefer an astringent toner that can help control oil production, such as Neutrogena Clear Pore - Astringente antiseborreico. If you have dry skin, you may prefer a hydrating toner that can help restore the protective skin barrier and lock in moisture, like CeraVe Hydrating Toner.
To apply toner, you can either use a cotton pad or your fingers to gently apply the toner over your face, avoiding the eye areas.
3. Serums and spot treatments
Third, consider applying serums or spot treatments. These products are designed to target specific skin concerns such as acne, fine lines or dark spots.
When choosing a serum or spot treatment, it's essential to consider your skin type and concerns. For instance, if you have acne-prone skin, you may prefer a salicylic acid spot treatment, like Acne Control Gel from CeraVe. For more tips for acne-prone skin, here are five skin care methods that can help reduce adult acne. If you have dark spots, you may prefer a vitamin C serum, such as Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Face Serum.
To apply these products, use a small amount and gently massage it into your skin. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label for best results.
4. Moisturizer
Fourth, moisturizers help hydrate and protect your skin from excess dryness. They can also help seal in the other products you've applied to your skin, making them more effective.
When choosing a moisturizer, look for a product that suits your skin type and provides hydration without clogging your pores. For instance, if you have dry skin, ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides are hydrating. Esta Daily Facial Moisturizer from Vanicream contains all three. If you have oily skin, you may prefer a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer like Toleriane Double Repair Matte Moisturizer from La Roche-Posay.
To apply moisturizer, use a small amount and gently massage it into your skin in circular motions. Be sure to cover your entire face, neck and chest.
5. Sunscreen
The last step in your skin care routine should always be protector solar. Sunscreen, along with other sun-protection measures, helps protect skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.
When choosing a sunscreen, look for a broad-spectrum formula that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Consider choosing a formula with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Mineral Face Sunscreen from La Roche-Posay provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection with a matte finish.
Be sure to apply sunscreen to your face, neck, and any other exposed areas of your body, and reapply as directed by the product.
Common skin care mistakes you should avoid (and their consequences)
- Not washing your face thoroughly can lead to a buildup of bacteria, dirt and oil on the skin.
- Using hot water to wash your face can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness.
- Picking at or popping pimples can cause scarring and can spread bacteria on the skin. Instead, you could try this Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch to cover and protect the breakout.
- Using skin care products that contain harsh ingredients, like alcohol, sulfates, or fragrances, can cause irritation and dryness.
- Skipping application of sunscreen and other sun protection measures can lead to damage from the harmful effects of UV rays.
- Neglecting to remove makeup before bed can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Desmaquilladores can help, even with tough-to-remove makeup, like waterproof mascara.
- Using expired skin care products can be ineffective and even cause skin irritation.
Frequently asked questions about skin care routines
What is a basic skin care routine?
Want to keep it simple? A basic skin care routine typically involves three steps: cleansing, moisturizing and applying sunscreen. Cleansing removes dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin; moisturizing helps keep the skin hydrated and soft; and sunscreen helps protect the skin from the sun's harmful UV rays.
How often should I use an exfoliant?
It depends on your skin type and the product you're using, but generally, it's recommended to use an exfoliant one to two times per week. Over-exfoliation can damage the skin's protective barrier and cause irritation, so it's important to be gentle and not overdo it. Conozca más sobre over-exfoliated skin.
Should I apply sunscreen every day?
Yes, it's recommended to apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy or overcast days. UV rays can penetrate through clouds and cause damage to the skin, so it's important to apply sunscreen and other sun protection measures to help keep your skin protected.
What should I do if I have sensitive skin?
If you have sensitive skin, it's important to use gentle, fragrance-free products and avoid harsh ingredients, like alcohol, fragrances and sulfates. Patch test new products before using them on your face, and consult a dermatologist if you have any persistent skin concerns.
Can I use the same products for both my morning and evening skin care routines?
Yes, you can use the same products for both your morning and evening routines if they suit your skin type and address your specific concerns. However, some people prefer to use lighter products in the morning and heavier ones at night to avoid feeling greasy during the day.
Get started with your personalized skin care routine today
Following a proper skin care routine can help protect and nourish your skin. The order in which you apply your skin care products is crucial, because it can affect how well your skin absorbs them. To properly order your skin care routine, consider starting with cleanser then follow with a toner then serums and spot treatments then moisturizer and finally sunscreen.
Remember to choose products that are suitable for your skin type and concerns and to always apply sunscreen as the last step in your routine. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your skin is healthy looking, radiant and protected.
This work contains AI-generated content.
Este contenido es solo para fines informativos y no constituye un asesoramiento médico. Consult with your health care provider before relying on any information you obtain here, changing any health care practices, using any recommended products, or taking any vitamins or supplements.