I'm Confused About My Skincare Routine: What Should I Do?

So you’re unsure if you are using the right skincare routine? No worries, this article will help to make sense of it all.

First of all, what do we mean by “the right skincare routine?” The right skin care routine is one that works for your skin type and helps to achieve your goals.

For example, if your goal is having clear healthy skin then a regimen with gentle cleansers and exfoliating treatments may be best for you. If on the other hand, you want an anti-aging treatment that plumps fine lines then moisturizers and serums would be more appropriate.

It’s important to keep in mind that everyone’s needs differ so there isn’t just one simple answer when it comes.

Identify your skin type: What is the goal of this skincare routine?

Skin type refers to the make-up of your skin which determines how it reacts to product. There are six different skin types: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive and maturing.

Normal skin is well-balanced and can handle most products without reaction. Dry skin needs to be hydrated by a moisturizer or cream before introducing other treatments, while oily skin will benefit from an astringent like toner that helps control oil production. Oily skins may also need to use masks on a weekly basis as they help remove impurities from the pores which often cause breakouts.

Combination skin are those who have two different types of oils in their complexion—one for T zone (forehead, nose, chin) and one for cheek area (cheeks, sideburns). Such individuals should avoid using heavy creams around the eyes but instead opt for lighter lotions or gels such as eye serum with a gentler formula.

Sensitive skin is the most reactive type of all; it can be irritated by fragrance or even soap residue, so one should always look for hypoallergenic products to avoid reactions. Maturing skin needs more intense care as aging causes wrinkles and lines which need to be filled in with creams and serums such as collagen boosters that help tighten up slackened skin areas.

Once you have identified your skin type, it’s time to set goals. Do you want a moisturizing routine which helps hydrate the skin? Or do you need products that will help fight acne-prone areas or signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles? While clearing up breakouts is important for anyone, those with oily skins would benefit from a routine that includes astringents or even chemical peels.

With the right skincare regimen, you will be able to achieve your main goal of healthy skin with little confusion!

Create a skincare routine that is easy to follow and maintain on a regular basis

#1 Wash

Start your routine by washing your face with a gentle cleanser for your skin type. This will remove any excess oils and dirt from the day, as well as bacteria that may be causing breakouts or pimples. (Pat dry to avoid over-drying skin which can lead to further irritation).

#2 Tone

Next use a toner on dry skins to help control oil production; oily skin should avoid this step unless it is needed for targeting specific areas of concern like active acne. Combination skin should also avoid an astringent like toner that will aggravate the oil production on one side of the face while simultaneously drying out or irritating the other type of complexion.

Tone if you need to combat breakouts, but always use a gentle formula to avoid irritation for sensitive skins and those with maturing skin.

#3 Serum

After toning the face, apply serum for your skin type with a gentle hand; those with maturing or sensitive skin should go lightly on this step as it’s easy to over-apply which will result in breakouts that are more irritated than before application. Oily skins may want to skip this step depending on the serum base as it can lead to clogged pores which causes breakouts. Choose one that is non comedogenic.

#4 Moisturize

If you are using a moisturizer or cream, apply after serum and gently pat the skin with your fingertips until fully absorbed into the skin before applying makeup or sunscreen.