It’s not just a matter of DNA – your daily habits, in fact, also have a lot to do with what you see in the mirror; depending on which product reviews you read or doctors you consult, there are a dizzying number of opinions on everything from moisturizers to UV protection. Ultimately, skin care is a personal decision. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind when trying to sort through all the noise.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Skin:
Three Main Steps
As a general rule, there are three main steps to your skincare routine:
- Cleansing — Washing your face.
- Toning — Balancing the skin.
- Moisturizing — Hydrating and softening the skin.
Skin-care routines are designed to keep your complexion in peak condition and to help you target any problem areas so you can address them. According to Kristina Holey, a dermatologist in San Francisco, “Beauty routines allow you to notice changes in your appearance.” In addition to changing your products as your skin needs change with age, it is also important to remember, “it’s not about creating perfection”.
Try these three steps every day to empower your skin while grounding you. Don’t rush it.
Although technology behind skin-care products has progressed, there’s still no instant fix – constant use is the only way to reap the rewards, says Dr. Rachel Nazarian, a Manhattan dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group. “The results are only noticeable after several months of continuous use,” she says.
In general, you should use a product daily, once or twice a day, for at least six weeks to notice any effects.
Tip: Use skin-care products in order of consistency, such as cleanser first, then toner, serum, then moisturizer. For instance, cleanser, toner (if you use it), serum, then moisturizer.