Developing an effective skincare routine is a must for promoting healthy skin. Whether you’re a minimalist who prefers a three-step routine or the type of person who undertakes 11 steps daily in pursuit of glass skin, how you layer your products—and when you apply them—has a huge impact on their effectiveness.
Your skin is a large organ and requires just as much attention and care as any other part of your body. In addition to preventing breakouts, keeping your skin hydrated and looking younger, regular skin care helps prevent sun damage, pigmentation, wrinkles and fine lines, and age spots.
There are a lot of different skincare products on the market formulated with specialized ingredients targeted at one particular skin concern—from acne to discoloration and signs of aging. While these specialized products are a great addition to your skincare arsenal, focusing too much on a single issue could potentially cause imbalances in your skin that you may not be aware of.
A good skincare routine should include a cleanser to remove makeup, dirt and oil, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. If you have sensitive or oily skin, try a gentle foaming cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid. For dry skin, look for a rich cream or lotion containing emollients and hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores and improves the appearance of texture. You can use a physical or chemical exfoliant twice to three times per week, depending on your skin type. Using a clay mask is also a great way to unclog pores and absorb excess oil without drying out the skin, which is particularly important for those with dry skin.
Moisturizers are a must for any skincare routine, even those with oily or acne-prone skin. If your skin is dehydrated, it can trigger more oil production and lead to breakouts. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a light lotion or gel formula with hydrating ingredients and a low pH can help maintain the balance of your skin’s natural oils.
A hydrating mist or toner can add a refreshing boost of moisture to the skin and can be used any time of day or night, especially after cleansing or during a breakout. According to DermNet NZ, a hydrating mist or toner should contain humectant ingredients (like lactic acid and hyaluronic acid) that help your skin to hold on to its own water.
Creating a customized skincare cocktail is a great way to achieve specific beauty goals. Whether you want to rebalance your complexion, enhance your glow, fight pigmentation or turn back time, our Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants are here to help you choose and combine products that best fit your needs.