Our skin needs all the love we can give it. Bacteria, pollution, UV rays and fluctuating temperatures are only some of the external factors it’s exposed to daily. We inflict harm to our skin when taking hot showers and baths, scratching or wearing tight clothing. Incorporating certain products into our skincare routine can help improve our skin’s feel and appearance, leading to healthier and more radiant skin.
Table of Contents
1. Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, so it retains a significant amount of water, helping to keep the skin moisturized. Our bodies create it naturally, but production decreases as we age. Replenishing this substance encourages more beautiful, healthy skin. Using skin products containing hyaluronic acid is an excellent way to help enhance elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone and texture and promote wound healing. It’s ideal to use it twice daily for optimal results.
2. Mineral Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen contains two powerhouse active minerals: titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These minerals act as a barrier where it’s applied to the skin to reflect the sun’s UV rays. Benefits include preventing premature fine lines and wrinkles, sunburn and skin cancer like melanoma. They’re typically gentler than their chemical counterparts, making them a good option for those with skin sensitivities.
Applying mineral sunscreen correctly (and reapplying it throughout the day) is crucial, even indoors. It has a thick consistency and leaves behind a white cast, allowing you to see where you missed applying it. Put it on at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply it every two hours while outside and every four hours while indoors near windows. SPF 30 or higher is ideal.
People often miss several areas when applying sunscreen, including the eyelids, tops of the feet, scalp, ears, back of the neck and lips. When applying mineral sunscreen, make sure you cover your entire body with every application.
3. Vitamin C Serum
Eating vitamin C is excellent for your diet, but it’s not a replacement for a topical and vice versa. A vitamin C serum permits a targeted approach, letting you put the product where you need it most.
A vitamin C serum defends against free radicals. Using it twice daily encourages multiple skin benefits, including skin brightening, increasing collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, decreasing redness and boosting hydration.
4. Moisturizer
Moisturizers are crucial to a skincare routine. Various types are available, each with varying thickness levels. From thinnest to thickest, there’s gel, lotion, cream and ointment. Moisturizers are most known for locking in moisture, but other benefits include reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and improving the skin’s texture.
Knowing your skin type whether it’s oily, normal, combination or dry, is vital for choosing a moisturizer. Each has specific needs, which also affect where you apply the product. Choose a moisturizer that’s ideal for your skin type for the best results.
A moisturizer should be applied twice daily, but that’s not all. Apply it after a regular or post-swim shower following a dip in a pool or the ocean.
5. Exfoliants
An exfoliant’s primary job is to remove a layer of dead skin cells, improving the appearance of your skin tone and texture. It also reduces the risk of breakouts and encourages a more radiant appearance.
How often you exfoliate depends on your skin type, but you should never exfoliate daily. The average to exfoliate is two to three times weekly. Avoid scrubbing your skin too hard or using harsh exfoliants, which could cause microtears and other damage.
6. Eye Products
Your eyelids are your body’s thinnest skin. Though not as thin but close to it, the rest of the skin surrounding your eyes is vulnerable to UV rays, pollution, smoking, lack of sleep and other factors. The older you get, the more you’ll notice fine lines, wrinkles and loose skin as collagen and elastin break down.
Using products such as creams and serums can improve the appearance of fine lines, under-eye bags and wrinkles and make the skin look firmer. Only use products designed for the sensitive eye area. Avoid rubbing them in, as the action could stretch the skin and promote damage. A gentle pat is all you need.
In What Order Do I Apply These Products?
The order in which you apply your skincare products is crucial. In the mornings, it always starts with cleansed skin and ends with sunscreen. You’ll use a toner after cleansing, followed by a serum, eye cream and moisturizer. Any additional products you use, like a spot treatment, should also fall in line to maximize their benefits.
Do I Need to See a Professional Dermatologist?
Everyone’s skin faces the same general challenges, such as UV rays and pollution. However, everybody’s skin is different and requires personalized attention. A dermatologist can help you create a customized plan ideal for your skin type and needs.
A dermatologist can advise you on what specific types of products can enhance the look and feel of your skin, which helps to improve its beauty and radiance. They can also perform an annual skin cancer screening, which is important whether you spend significant time outdoors or are mostly inside.
You deserve to have your skin reflect your true beauty. Establish a skincare routine that serves it well by improving its health, appearance and feel. Team up with a professional dermatologist to create a personalized plan ideal for your skin to encourage optimal results.