Creating a Skincare Routine For a Dewy, Baby-Faced Companion
An effective skincare routine is tailored specifically for each person, but most routines typically consist of using a gentle cleanser, treating specific to skin type treatments and moisturizing frequently with moisturizer. You may wish to customize and augment this basic routine depending on what best fits your complexion needs.
Sunscreen should be considered an absolute essential, as sun damage leads to premature signs of aging such as uneven skin tone and fine lines and wrinkles.
1. Cleanse
No matter if or when you plan on applying makeup, it’s essential that your skin be properly prepared prior to any application. Cleansing is the first step and removes dirt, sweat, or dead skin cells which could clog your pores and lead to breakouts.
Always select a cleanser designed to meet the specific needs of your skin type – for instance, oily skin types might benefit from using something mattifying while those with dry skin could utilize something more moisturising and hydrating-focused.
Your cleanser should also not contain harsh cleansers as this will compromise your protective barrier of skin, potentially dismantling it altogether. Proper skin cleansing must take place both morning and night for optimal skin regenerative benefits; surface impurities impede this process and stop your cells from renewing themselves at night. You should then follow your cleanse with toner or exfoliator depending on your skin type or concerns; typically physical/chemical exfoliants can be applied two to three times weekly post cleansing for most types.
2. Tone
Even when using an effective cleanser, there may still be makeup and oil left behind that need to be picked up by toner. Also referred to as tonic or essence, these water-based formulas should be applied after cleansing with fingers, cotton ball or cloth and before any leave-on products such as serums or moisturizers are applied to the skin.
Products designed to treat different skin types typically contain a mix of ingredients that serve different functions. If you have oily skin, look for one with low pH level and exfoliating ingredients like lactic acid or papaya extract to effectively remove dirt, shrink pores and prevent blackheads.
For those with dry or mature skin, toners that replenish moisture such as vitamin E or glycerin may help restore its levels, while for sensitive skin there should be soothing options containing anti-inflammatory ingredients like chamomile or eucalyptus can provide soothing anti-inflammatory relief.
3. Exfoliate
Chemical or physical exfoliants help clear away dead skin cells that clog your pores, creating an environment in which foundation and moisturizer can absorb better, as well as helping achieve that dewy, baby-faced complexion you desire.
Exfoliation can also help prevent pore blockages that lead to blackheads and whiteheads from developing, making for blackheads and whiteheads. However, over-exfoliating may result in redness and sensitivity on your skin – for this reason GH suggests using products designed specifically to be used daily and include gentle exfoliating ingredients that won’t irritate.
4. Moisturize
Moisturizing your skin is essential to enhancing its natural glow and prepping it for makeup application. A moisturizer also smooths the face to ensure foundation and concealer apply evenly and remain in place throughout the day.
Choose the ideal moisturizer based on the needs of your skin type. If you have oily skin, opt for lightweight lotion or gel formula with high SPF that contains pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid. For dry skin types, look for rich moisturizers packed with hydrating elements like glycerin, hyaluronic acid and botanical oils to provide adequate hydration.
Based on your skin type and concerns, tailor your routine accordingly by adding serums or treatments that address acne, redness, or hyperpigmentation. However, keep in mind that every skincare routine must always start with three core steps — cleansing, toning, and moisturizing–before adding in additional products targeted specifically towards specific issues.