Skincare has never been more accessible or more in demand. While Dove soap and Nivea moisturizer used to be all it took to perfect your daily routine, times surely have changed as some even tout the great benefits of a 14-step Korean skincare routine to combat acne and wrinkles. Social media and YouTube have completely transformed the way in which we absorb information, and as a society, we are constantly bombarded with so much more information than we could ever absorb. So how can we possibly know which products are good for us and which aren't? Let's talk about what you should look for in your daily cleanser.
Ingredients
The first step to curating the perfect at-home skincare regimen is to understand your skin type which is broken down into three main categories: dry, normal, and oily. You can learn your skin type here. Now that you know which category you fall into, let's talk about the essentials of a great routine. Dermatologists recommend everyone to have a basic routine starting with cleanser, exfoliant, and moisturizer. Never forget your daily SPF, either! Skincare professionals across the board will scream from the high mountains that a skincare routine without SPF is a complete waste of time and money.
When selecting a face cleanser, specialists recommend opting for a gentle cleanser option with nourishing ceramides and plumping hyaluronic acid. For people with sensitive skin, be sure that the products you select are fragrance-free. If you're a lover of a full face of makeup, it is recommended to step into the modern "double cleanse." One of the most highly recommended double cleansing products is the Elemis cleansing balm. This is the first step to remove makeup or SPF, and then you go in afterward with your cleanser. The next step is to treat any specific skin conditions with a serum. If you're acne-prone, look for a serum containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. For those with hyperpigmentation, keep an eye out for alpha hydroxy acids like lactic acid and glycolic acid to exfoliate your dead skin cells, making way for bright and radiant skin. Steer clear of skincare containing essential oils as they tend to be irritating to sensitive skin.
Moisture
For those with acne-prone or oily skin, it may be enticing to skip moisturizing your skin as you may initially feel like your skin is staying less oily. But odds are, this will only lead to further skin irritation and dehydration. No matter your skin type, it is imperative to moisturize both in the morning and at night. If you do have oily skin, search for a more lightweight, gel option. If you're on the normal to dry side, look for ingredients like glycerin and shea butter to enhance your natural glow. You will see the best results if you are dedicated to your regimen and don't overdo it.
Many people can tend to get overly excited when debuting a new skincare routine, and it can quickly turn to irritated and red skin rather than bright and vibrant skin. If you're looking to incorporate retinol into your schedule, which many dermatologists say is the most effective path to wrinkle-free anti-aging, it is best to begin with one night a week to ensure that your skin does not become overwhelmed. Leave behind the outdated bar soap and dive into the New Age multi-step skincare routine that is sure to increase your makeup-free days and erase the past of your acne years. Don't forget to incorporate healthy foods like spinach into your diet as well, as what you eat truly does show in your complexion!