How To Build Your Skincare Routine 101

With so many different categories and formulations of facecare products available today, knowing where to start building your own skincare routine can be confusing and complicated. Even the best skin serums, facial cleansers for sensitive skin, facial cleansers for dry skin, or even the best anti-ageing creams might not work for you if it is not used in the correct order or it does not suit your skin type. 

Remember, your skincare routine is unique to you. What might have worked for your best friend, or that influencer might not work for you. So, before you walk down the wellness and beauty aisle of your nearest store, it is extremely important to identify your skin type. Once you’ve determined your skin type, it’s time to narrow down the facial care beauty products and specific order of using them daily. 

Whether you’re a seasoned skincare enthusiast looking to refresh your routine or a complete newbie, any good skincare routine comprises three basic steps, and here’s all you need to need to know about them. 

• Cleanse
  Cleansing is the fundamental step of any skincare routine as it prepares the base, that is, your facial skin, for the next series of face products or even makeup. An effective cleanser helps wash off dirt, bacteria, and oil trapped in your pores. It also helps get rid of any leftover product or makeup that might still be on your skin.

Depending on your skin type or skin concerns, if any, you can opt for a suitable product. If you’re someone who suffers from stress acne or frequent skin breakouts, a gel-based cleanser or a foaming cleanser with salicylic acid could do wonders for you. Meanwhile, if you have dry skin, a good cleansing milk can help get rid of the dirt without stripping your face of its natural oils. 

• Tone
  A good, alcohol-free toner is like a shot of beneficial supplements for the skin. Toners today contains all kinds of ingredients addressing specific skin types and concerns. 

Toners with Vitamin C are known for their brightening action, while those with Hyaluronic Acid boost hydration to the skin. For people with frequent acne breakouts, a toner with Tea Tree Oil is often recommended.

• Moisturize
  You might think that with oily skin, you don’t need to moisturize as often. But, here’s why you are wrong – Cleansers and toners can sometimes strip our skin of lipids, which can lead to dry, cracked, and dull skin. A moisturizer helps replenish all of what you’ve lost and leaves your skin looking plump, hydrated, and healthy. 

Experts recommend a light, gel-based, and non-comedogenic moisturizer that is easily absorbed by the skin and leaves little or no residue for people with oily skin. On the other hand, people with dry skin are better off using hydrating balms to nourish the skin from within. 

A serum is also a great option to add that extra dose of nourishment to your skin. Mostly lightweight and water or oil-based, facial serums are easily absorbed by the skin and can contain various ingredients that address specific skin concerns. From anti-ageing to skin brightening and exfoliating, whatever your skin concern is, you’ll find a serum for that. If it is a water-based one, apply it before your moisturizer and if it is an oil-based one, layer it on after the moisturizer.