Keeping your skin in good shape takes work on the inside as well as the outside. To keep your skin healthy and looking fresh, you'll need a deep cleansing routine at night and a protective plan for the morning. Antioxidants, omega-3 fish products, and plenty of water should be part of your eating routine as well.
Your night-time routine should focus on cleaning away the day. Makeup, moisturizers, and sunscreen will all need to be removed to get down to the dermis. Once your skin is clean, you'll want to:
Think of moisturizer as the sealant on the layers of protection you're giving your skin. If you apply moisturizer before you put on a serum, for example, the serum can't do its job and you'll get in the way of your own skincare goals.
Our skincare routines early in the day can be a little simpler; your face likely didn't get dirty overnight. However, your morning routine should protect your face while you're out and about.
You can wake your skin with a gentle cleanser or water if you notice redness in the morning after cleaning your face. It may be tempting to wash your face in the shower, but the hot water of the shower may strip your skin of oils. Instead, wash your face at the sink in cool water to soothe and tone your skin.
A simple moisturizer is a good next step in your skincare routine. You can save time by applying a light moisturizer before you put on your makeup. If you live in a volatile climate, remember that skincare routines may need to change depending on how dry the air is in your environment.
Your next step will be to cover blemishes for younger skin, or treating dark spots for older skin. An eye cream will brighten your eyes and your smile for the day. Finally, apply a form of sunscreen. You may want to use a foundation with sunscreen, or simply apply a light layer of sunscreen before you apply foundation.
Masks serve a variety of purposes but can easily be a weekly treatment in your skincare routine. When trying a new product, take care to test a bit under an ear to see if the product or the fragrance causes reddening or irritation.
If you're prone to acne, try removing your makeup at the end of the workday, particularly if you're going to sweat on the way home. If your acne is stubborn, try a cleanser with tea tree oil, as it's a natural anti-bacterial agent. If you are fighting wrinkles, work to boost your internal collagen production with a diet high in berries, green tea, and cinnamon.
Every woman and each step in her skincare routine is different. Your skin will naturally change as you age, and childbirth will add a whole new dimension. No matter your age, avoid smoking and excess alcohol. Be diligent about your water intake!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.