Women may have a natural flair for beauty but no one is born with knowledge of skincare. It’s backed by science, and the fact that there are so many products and brands out there isn’t helping either.
All skincare products have their use and every brand has their own claims. The last thing you want is to get lost in all the serums, cleansers and moisturisers available in the market. Let this be your guide to confidently build a skincare routine that will keep your skin glowing and looking young.
1. Know Your Skin Type
The foundation of any good skincare routine is understanding your skin type. Do you battle midday shine? Does your skin feel tight and flaky? Identifying your skin type—oily, dry, combination or sensitive—helps you choose products formulated to address your specific needs.
- Oily skin benefits from lightweight, oil-free products.
- Dry skin craves richer creams and hydrating serums.
- Combination skin might require a targeted approach, using lighter products for the oilier T-zone and more moisturising options for the cheeks.
- Sensitive skin needs gentle formulas free of harsh irritants and fragrance.
2. Target Your Concerns
Beyond your skin type, consider any specific concerns you want to address. Are you looking to minimise breakouts? Fade hyperpigmentation? Target fine lines and wrinkles? Many skincare products have specific ingredients that tackle the above-mentioned concerns. Look for those that have salicylic acid for acne, Vitamin C for brightening or retinol for anti-ageing benefits.
3. Be Ingredient Savvy
Familiarise yourself with some key ingredients—it’s the way to making informed choices. For example, hyaluronic acid is effective for hydration, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that brightens and protects against sun damage and niacinamide helps control oil production and minimise redness.
It might be easy to get intimidated by a long ingredient list, but don’t be! You just need to focus on the top few ingredients present in the highest concentrations.
4. Understand Patch Testing
Even the gentlest products can cause irritation on some skin types. Patch testing is a crucial step to avoid unwanted reactions. Apply a small amount of the product to your inner forearm, an area less prone to breakouts. Wait 24-48 hours. If you experience redness, itching or burning, steer clear of that product.
5. Understand SPF
Sun exposure is a major contributor to wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and even skin cancer. That’s why protecting your skin from it is essential, making SPF non-negotiable. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and incorporate it into your daily routine, rain or shine.
6. Simplify and Be Patient
By now, you’ve probably noticed that building a skincare routine isn’t a complex process. It all starts with a basic cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen. As your skin adjusts, you can gradually introduce other targeted products. Note that it may take time for some skincare products to work their magic on you. Be patient and observe how your skin responds.
When building a skincare routine, choosing the right products is crucial. It’s also important to be consistent to ensure you’re getting the benefits advertised. If you experience any issues with your chosen skincare products, it’s best to consult your dermatologist. Better yet, consult first before trying anything, especially if you have a skin condition.
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