We all dream of having flawless skin. And, the journey to achieve that is not at all complex! A simple daily skin care routine can show visible results within days.
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Why Skin Care Routine is Important?
Your skin is a part of your body that is constantly exposed to dirt, pollutants and harmful UV rays. Hence, your skin deserves special care. Skincare is not just about aesthetics. It is a long term investment for your overall well being. Daily skin care routine ensures that your skin stays hydrated and glowing.
The best part is that you do not need expensive spas and products to get healthy skin! Just a few minutes out of your schedule is all you need to get a radiant skin.
But, before we discuss the daily skin care routine at home, you first need to understand your skin type.
Understand Your Skin Type
Your genes decide the type of skin you have. Your skin’s texture, size of pores and amount of oils produced by sebaceous glands determine the dryness and oiliness of your skin. Usually there are five skin types:
- Normal skin
- Dry skin
- Sensitive skin
- Oily skin
- Combination skin
To find out your skin type, you can consult a professional or a dermatologist. However, we have an easy test for you that you can do at home to find out your skin type. Follow the steps mentioned below.
- Clean your face with a gentle cleanser and wait for one hour.
- Do not apply any products on your skin after cleansing. With the help of a tissue, dab your face to remove any excess oil.
- Now, observe your skin.
- If your skin feels comfortable and there is no residue on the tissue you used to dab your face, then you have normal skin.
- If your skin feels comfortable but there is some residue on the tissue, then you have an Oily skin.
- If your cheeks feel tight and there is some residue on the tissue, you have Combination skin.
- If your skin feels tight or inflamed then you have Sensitive skin.
- If your skin feels tight but there is no inflammation or itchiness, you have a Dry skin.
Now that you know your skin type, you can choose a skincare routine and products suitable for your skin.
Before we get into how and when to do skin care routine at home, make sure you apply products from lightest to heaviest in consistency. This will help products penetrate through your skin easily.
Skin Care Routine for Mornings
A morning skin care routine is very important for your skin health. You have a long day ahead, therefore you need to prepare and protect your skin.
Step 1 – Cleansing
Now that you know your skin type, go for a cleanser that suits you. Cleaning your face is important because it removes all the dirt, oil and sweat that build up overnight. Oil based cleansers are great for dry skin, and you can choose a water based cleanser if you have oily skin. Apply the facewash in circular motion all over your face and neck. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a soft towel.
Step 2 – Toning
Use a toner to remove any extra oil or dirt. Toner also helps balance the pH level. Go for a toner that suits your skin type. A toner hydrates your skin and prepares it for further product absorption. Soak some cotton with toner. Dab it gently on your face. If you have acne prone skin, focus on the “T-zone.”
Step 3 – Serum
Serums are not mandatory. However, they are great to treat any specific skin concern that you might have. For example, you can use serums that contain antioxidants like Vitamin C. It can protect your skin from harsh weather and pollution. A dermatologist can help you suggest a serum that is right for your skin.
Step 4 – Moisturizing
This step is a must in any skincare routine. No matter what type of skin you have, moisturizing keeps your skin hydrated and protected throughout the day. You can take help from a professional to help you choose a moisturizer. For example, if you have oily skin, you can go for a non greasy formula.
Step 5 – Sunscreen
We often underestimate the power of a good sunscreen. Sunscreens should be applied everyday even during winters and when you are indoors. It protects your skin from UV rays, reduces risks of skin cancer, and avoids premature aging and wrinkles. Go for a broad spectrum sunscreen. A sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
Evening Skin Care Routine for Overnight Skin Repair
At night your skin goes into repair mode. It regenerates cells and heals damage from the day. Therefore, an evening skincare routine is important.
Step 1 – Makeup Removal
The first thing you need to do after a long day is clean your face thoroughly. Remove all the makeup using a micellar water.
Step 2 – Cleanse Again
You can use the same cleanser or a different one to remove the excess oil and dirt. Cleansing a second time ensures that your skin is completely clean and dirt free. This also prevents clogged pores and breakouts.
Step 3 – Serum or Overnight Treatment
Nighttime is great for treatments. Your skin is undisturbed and in a repair phase, therefore you can consider using treatments like anti-aging serums, acne treatments, retinoids etc., depending on your specific skin concerns.
Step 4 – Night Cream
You can either use the same moisturizer that you use during the day, or get a rich night cream. Go for formulas that have ingredients that will help repair your skin overnight. Some of it includes hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or peptides. This ensures that your skin is plump and hydrated when you wake up in the morning.
Weekly Additions to your Skin Care Routine
Although daily skin care routines are important, weekly pampering your skin can make it even more healthier.
Exfoliation
Exfoliate your skin 2-3 times in a week to avoid dead skin buildup. Go for mild exfoliators that come in the form of cleansers, toner, peels or serums. Scrubs can be harsh on your skin especially if you have sensitive skin. Do not exfoliate more than 3 times a week because it can cause redness and irritation.
Face Masks
Face Masks can be a great option to treat specific skin concerns like acne or dryness. There are several types of masks you can choose from based on your skin type. You can use hydrating masks if you have dry skin. Clay masks are great for detoxification. And, avoid using serums after the face masks because face masks have active ingredients that can react with serums.
Facial Steaming
Facial steaming is an amazing way to deep cleanse your skin. It helps open up the pores of your skin and softens the blackheads. It can then be easily pulled out. Facial steaming can be really helpful if you have oily or acne prone skin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over Cleansing
Cleansing your skin more than required will not make your skin flawless. Instead, it will strip your skin off natural oils. This can lead to dryness or even excess oil production. Clean your face twice, once in the morning and once at night.
- Skipping Sunscreen
A lot of people do not realize the importance of a good sunscreen. Sunscreen not only protects your skin but also prevents premature aging and wrinkles. Do not skip sunscreen even when you’re indoors or when the day is cloudy.
- Wrong Products
When you are choosing a product that has a specific chemical concentration, it is wise to consult a dermatologist. Wrong products on your skin can lead to breakouts and irritation.
- Inconsistent Routine
Inconsistency in your skin care routine can be a big setback. Consistently sticking to your skincare routine for a considerable amount of time can help you achieve the skin that you have always dreamt about.
Healthy skin doesn’t appear overnight. You have to stick with a daily skin care routine at home. This will set the foundation for long term skin health. Be patient and enjoy the process!
Disclaimer- This article is for informational purposes only. It is not to be considered as a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding any queries you might have regarding your medical condition. Do not delay professional medical advice because of anything that you read in this article.