If you’re stuck in a skincare rut, confused about how to put together a skin-care routine, or your still using face wipes (especially if your still using face wipes!!) this post is for you…
Good skin care is not only about looking your best, it’s essential to protect and strengthen your skin, keep it healthy and prepare it for the effects of aging down the road. Taking the time to show your skin some TLC is also more than surface level, it’s spending a few dedicated minutes daily to a little self-care and self-love.
So where do you start? My best advice is to begin with a simple routine and be consistent– both with the steps and products. Regardless of your skin concerns, issues, goals, etc. — the great news it that there are certain steps that generally apply across the board. When your routine is habit, you can start to build it out.
Morning Routine
Cleanser – to remove your night-time products and prepare your skin for your daytime routine. I love a cleansing wash in the morning time. Use a gentle facewash with barely lukewarm water (no washing your face in a hot shower!)
Toner – to remove any last traces of your cleanser and product, to refresh the skin and to prepare it for better absorption of your serums
Serum – if you’re using a hydrating serum be sure to apply to slightly damp skin to amplify the hydrating effects. Spritzing with a spring water spray mist is a gorgeous way to prepare for your serum.
Eye Cream –always use your ring finger, a pea size amount is enough for both eyes, gently tap until absorbed
Moisturise – to help support your skin barrier and lock in the hydration.
SPF – This is a non-negotiable for skin and health and protection 365 days a year (the only day I make an exception is a wedding day) . Bonus that it is also the single most effective step against ageing!
Evening Routine
Cleanser – double cleanse in the pm to properly break down and remove all make-up & SPF. This also improves the efficacy of the rest of your routine. First cleanse with an oil or balm, remove with a damp muslin cloth. Follow with a second cleanse using a water-soluble cream, gel or lotion cleanser suitable for your skin type.
Toner – to remove any last traces of your cleanser and product, to refresh the skin and to prepare it for better absorption of the products to follow
Spot/Blemish Treatments – active ingredients in a spot treatment will generally be most effective when applied to clean skin, wait 1-2 minutes before the next steps.
Treatments or Serum – as with day-time if you are using a hydrating serum be sure to apply to slightly damp skin to amplify the hydrating effects
Eye Cream –always use your ring finger, a pea size amount is enough for both eyes, gently tap until absorbed
Night Cream or Oil – for your skin type or concern, bear in mind creams generally absorb better into the skin as most oils will form more of a barrier on top of the skin and are unable to penetrate as deeply as a cream
Top tips
Don’t forget your neck, your décolletage and the backs of your hands
Treat your skin with respect, take care not to stretch or drag it especially around the eye area, this is the thinnest most delicate skin on your body
Don’t leave your night-time skin care routine until you are going to bed, instead do it when you know you are not leaving the house for the rest of the evening, it will be more enjoyable and more effective!
