With social media and the internet, finding millions of different skincare products has been easier than ever before. But finding the best fit for your skin? That’s hard. Walking down long aisles of skincare products at stores can leave you confused, but reading endless reviews online can end up being more of a hassle. What if this cream makes you break out? What if that cleanser dries out your skin? What if that serum does nothing at all? Your skin is unique to you. Although there isn’t a “correct” way of taking care of your skin, finding your skincare routine can be simple, fun, and exciting. In this article, we’ll break down the essentials and offer you a step-by-step guideline to give you the information you need to build your own perfect skincare routine.

1. Understanding Your Skin Type

Before you start building your own skincare routine, you should have a good understanding of what type of skin you have is in order to properly take care of it. If you have oily skin, you might want to focus your search for products that both nourish your skin and control excess sebum that could potentially clog pores. If you have dry skin, look for products that have long-lasting hydration. If you have sensitive skin, consider products that are gentle and fragrance-free. Understanding your skin type can also help you avoid using products that are too heavy, too light, or cause irritations.

2. Cleansers

After you learn about your skin type, the first step of any great skincare routine is to wash your face with a gentle, yet effective facial cleanser. Washing your face twice a day, in the morning and night, helps to prevent oil-build up, clogged pores, and acne. However, if you have sensitive or dry skin, washing once at night with a cleanser and rinsing once in the morning can be greatly beneficial to you. Also, keep an eye out for non-foaming cleansers with ingredients such as glycerin or shea butter to help clean and hydrate your skin. For those with oily skin types, a foaming or gel cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid helps to regulate and remove excess oil. Additionally, it’s best to stay away from cleansers that strip too much oil from your skin such as those that are charcoal or clay-based. Lastly, regardless of your skin type, avoid ingredients that are too abrasive that can break down your skin’s protective barrier.

3. Toners

Toners are a great step after cleansing because they refresh your skin and restores it’s pH balance. Some ingredients to look for when shopping for a toner are alpha and beta hydroxy acids, which gently removes dead skin cells that can blog pores and improves the effects of sun-damage, and green tea, which calms irritation and reduces redness. Toners can also help minimize the appearance of pores, temporarily tighten your skin, and remove some oil or dirt that was left after cleansing. However, because toners can be drying if applied on its own, be sure to remember to use a product that can bring back some of your skin’s hydration afterwards.

4. Serums

After using a toner that works for you, applying serums to your skin gives it a collagen boost, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Serums can also prevent dullness and dryness by brightening and hydrating your skin. Some ingredients to look for when you’re searching for the perfect serum are retinol and peptides, which stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, as well as vitamin C, which helps to reverse some skin damage you can get from sun or pollution exposure. Although serums aren’t necessary for everyone, they are a great asset to ensure that your skin doesn’t dry out during the day.

5. Eye Creams

Eye creams are great if you’re concerned with fine lines, dark circles, or undereye bags. Compared to face creams, eye creams are specialized for the sensitive areas under your eyes. Look for ingredients such as vitamin K, retinol, and peptides when searching for the perfect eye cream for you. When applying, make sure to lightly tape the cream using your ring finger, or your weakest finger, to avoid tugging on your skin and potentially causing damage. Remember, the skin around your eyes is delicate, and these creams are made with this sensitivity in mind.

6. Moisturizers

Regardless of whether you decide to wash your face with a cleanser once or twice during the day, using a moisturizer at least twice a day is a must to hydrate and soften your skin. No matter what skin type you have, a moisturizer is a must when deciding your skincare routine. For those with oily skin types, a gel moisturizer that is lightweight and absorbs quickly helps to avoid oil build-up. Also, look for words like “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” when shopping for your perfect moisturizer. For those with dry skin, try a cream lotion, which is heavier than a regular lotion moisturizer and gives you the hydration you need throughout the day. And for those with sensitive skin, be on the lookout for balm moisturizers that are free of irritants such as alcohol or fragrances. These moisturizers are heavier than both gel and cream lotions and are perfect for nourishing your skin.

7. Sunscreens

The last step of your skincare routine should be sunscreen, as it is the heaviest product you’ll use and will protect both your skin and the products you’ve previously applied. Sunscreens are also a must-have for protecting your skin against sun damage, preventing the development of fine lines, and improving your skin’s texture. In order to receive the most benefits out of your sunscreen, apply at least 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every two hours. Additionally, try to look for a daily sunscreen with a built-in broad spectrum SPF of at least 30 for the most protection.

If you’re looking for a great sunscreen this summer, check out our previous article called “Top 10 Facial Sunscreens that are Actually Worth the Hype” for our best recommendations.

As you start your journey to create your perfect skincare routine, remember that everyone’s skin type is different. Your skin needs may look different from someone else’s, and that is perfectly okay! Additionally, be sure to keep in mind that no skincare routine will work instantly. In general, aim to use a product for at least six weeks, once or twice daily, to notice any differences that may come. And most importantly, take your time, have fun, and enjoy the process of finding the perfect skincare routine for you.

If you liked this article and want to learn more about makeup, weddings, and skincare, please check out our other posts at cinderellabridez.com.