POV:
You want to dip your toes in skincare but everything seems confusing. How many steps should your routine consist of? Do you have to use everything from the same range? Which product needs to be applied first? How do you use the products? The basic steps that make up a routine include cleansing, moisturising, and protecting.
Building a skincare routine
The main aim behind any skincare routine is that it should help your skin function at its best. If you have specific skin concerns, your regimen can contain products that help solve them. Neither does building a skincare routine have to make a hole in your pocket, nor does it have to be complicated to work. In fact, more often than not, keeping things simple works. To demystify the process, keep reading…
3-step morning routine for glowing skin
The most important tip for glowing skin? Protect it. Begin your mornings by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser. Follow this up with a moisturiser (according to your skin type) and then as your last step, layer on some sunscreen.
Step 1: Cleanser
This one is probably a step we don’t even think too much about. This is probably where most of us are end up making a mistake. Picking the right cleanser for your skin type is essential as some formulas can be very stripping and leave skin feeling squeaky-clean (which isn’t what you want). If you have sensitive or dry skin, you may want to rinse it with water in the mornings and wash it with a face wash at night.
Step 2: Moisturiser
Next up is moisturiser. This keeps the skin hydrated, and protected and strengthens the barrier. If you have very oily skin, you may want to opt for a light moisturiser (think lotion or gel-like formulas) and if your skin is on the drier side, using hyaluronic acid or ceramide-laced formula might do the trick.
Step 3: SPF
When it comes to picking a sunscreen, you have two options: chemical or physical. It doesn’t matter which one you go for, as long as it has an SPF of 30 and you’re consistent with the usage. Reapply it every two to three hours diligently to prevent sun damage.
Optional steps:
Toner: Not everyone needs a toner in their skincare routine but it can be highly beneficial in treating certain skin conditions like excessive oiliness. Look for ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.
Serums: A formula that is tailored to your specific skin needs can go a long way in treating and protecting it. If you’re looking to chase away dullness, try a vitamin C serum, and for acne-prone skin, give salicylic acid serums a go. For dry skin, try a hyaluronic acid formula.
3-step night routine for glowing skin
Step 1: Double cleanse
If just washing your face with a regular face wash doesn’t remove all signs of make-up, you can consider double-cleansing. This method involves using a balm or oil to break down waterproof SPF, dirt, grime, excess oil, and make-up and then following it up with a cleanser. This technique zaps out all the gunk from your skin so you don’t have to deal with clogged pores and in the long run, acne.
Step 2: Treat
If you have specific skin concerns like acne, fine lines, or hyperpigmentation, you can rope in some serums and toners at night to treat them. For acne, a leave-on salicylic acid cream may help and for fine lines and marks, you may want to consult your dermatologist about trying out retinol.
Step 3: Moisturise
Seal in the goodness of your skincare with a moisturiser. Not only is hydrated skin healthier, but it also heals faster.
Skincare tips to follow for glowing skin
• If your skin tends to get oily, stay away from heavier creams, serums, and oils.
• Change your pillowcase every three to four days to prevent clogged pores.
• If you have acne-prone skin, exfoliate it using a chemical exfoliant over a physical one. Scrubby textures can cause irritation and more inflammation.
• SPF is the most important part of your routine. If you’re not diligent with it, there is no point in doing the previous steps.
• Always patch test beauty products to see if you’re allergic to the formula. Apply it under your ear and wait for 24 hours to see if it works for you.
How eating right can help you get glowing skin
We’re always on the quest to better our skin but more often than not, we end up forgetting that what we eat affects our complexion. While topical formulas act like beauty band-aids, the foods you consume nourish your body inside and out. They get digested and make their way into our bloodstream. Adding anti-inflammatory foods to your diet can help your body fight inflammation and irritation. Look for foods that contain vitamin A, C, E, D, collagen and omega-3 fatty acids. This includes tomatoes, carrots, oranges, broccoli, strawberries and sweet potatoes.
Home remedies to get glowing skin
Besan and yoghurt face mask
Mix two tablespoons of besan with yoghurt till you have a semi-runny paste. Apply this on your face and wash off when it is almost dry.
Malai and turmeric face mask
Combine two tablespoons of malai with a pinch of turmeric. Apply to cleansed skin and let it sit till it is semi-dry. Wash off with warm water using circular motions.
Face icing
One of the easiest ways to give your skin a quick pick-me-up involves icing it. Wrap a cube of ice in a thin cloth and dab it on your skin. Do this for up to five minutes and see the difference. Rubbing your face with ice makes the blood rush to the surface, giving your skin a natural glow.
Conclusion
All in all, it is important to remember that even though you’re doing everything right, taking care of your skin is a journey and one that you have to be very patient with. When in doubt, consult your dermatologist.
FAQs
How long do skincare products take to work?
Unless specified otherwise, skincare formulas take up to 28 days to work.
Can I use a face mask every day?
That depends on the formula you’re using. It isn’t advisable to use a clay mask every day but you can use an overnight one every night.
How often should I wash my face?
Ideally, you should wash it twice a day but if you have skin that is on the drier side, rinsing it with water during the day and washing it with a cleanser at night should do the trick.