How to build a skincare routine + My personal routine - Informative guide to help you understand your skin better:)

 Great skin is not simply a matter of DNA — your daily habits, in fact, have a big impact on what you see in the mirror. But depending on which product reviews you read or doctors you consult, there is a dizzying number of opinions on everything from how to moisturize to how to protect - NY times

Cleaning skin thoroughly is important for washing away dirt, dead skin cells, makeup, and anything else that might clog your pores or cause general dullness. And, depending on the type of cleanser you use, it could also help treat specific skin conditions, like acne.

here are the 4 different skin types and products to use according to them.

Oily skin: A foaming or gel cleanser will ensure adequate removal of excess dirt and oil from your skin; ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid can help regulate and remove excess oil.

Acne-prone skin: A gentle foaming cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide or sulfur is your best bet.

Dry skin: Look for a cream or balm formula with hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid and botanical oils.

Sensitive skin: Try micellar water, an ultra-gentle cleanser that includes tiny particles called micelles that trap impurities and lift them away without drying your skin in the process.

1. always start off by identifying your skin type - to do that just wash your face with water and pat dry. let it sit for 15 -20 minutes without touching at all and then observe. If after 30 minutes your skin appears shiny throughout, you likely have oily skin; if it feels tight and is flaky or scaly, you likely have dry skin; if the shine is only in your T-Zone, you probably have combination skin; and if your skin feels hydrated and comfortable, but not oily, you likely have normal skin.

2. cleansing- AS already said, Cleaning skin thoroughly is important for washing away dirt, dead skin cells, makeup, and anything else that might clog your pores or cause general dullness. And, depending on the type of cleanser you use, it could also help treat specific skin conditions, like acne.

I recommend using the cetaphil brand and personally use their gentle skin cleanser as I have sensitive combination skin. 

3. treating- now here is where the rest of the Shazam comes in - if you are JUST starting out maybe do the basic stuff and skip the serums but if your someone who is looking for results after trying out a lot of things take a look below.

so after cleansing is the basic stuff which is toning( after cleansing preferably with a cotton pad) and exfoliating (once/twice a week not everyday) 

now based on the skin types guide given above you can consult a derma (highly recommended) and/or use the following serums recommended for the skin types/problems 

A blemished uneven skin tone: An uneven skin tone can be a downer, especially if you have an event to attend. A simple remedy for blotchiness is tea tree oil. You can add a few drops to a base oil or moisturizer before you apply it. You can use it as is, as well. 

Combating signs of aging: Fine lines and wrinkles are very much a part of aging. And while you take it in your stride, some products can delay its signs. One of the better options amongst the array of products available in the market is retinol serum. Judicially applying retinol to your skin can reduce the signs of aging, making you look young. 

Spider veins: Spider veins on the face can be distressing. You can control their appearance with vitamin A creams or tretinoins, as they cause collagen to build up near the surface of the skin. This makes the broken blood vessels less visible.

Age spots: A part of the aging process, age spots or liver spots are caused by long periods of sun exposure. They are common on the arms, face, and hands. Hydroquinone, a bleaching cream, is the first-line treatment advised for hyper-pigmentation. The spots lighten after prolonged treatment. 

For sensitive skin 

As there are chances of irritation if you have sensitive skin, opt for products with ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, or oatmeal. Being excellent moisturizers, you don’t have to worry about breakouts and irritation.

for acne prone oily skin 

 For acne-prone oily skin Products with salicylic acid are perfect for this skin type, as it penetrates the skin and attacks the acne bacteria. The salicylic acid serum has anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for skincare. Salicylic acid reduces the inflammation in clogged skin pores by combating the germs present in the acne. It clears the skin without causing oiliness. It works well on blackheads and whiteheads too. However, moderation is the key; overuse of the product can cause skin irritation.

for dry skin 

 AHAs [alpha hydroxy acids] are the go-to product for dry skin that is not sensitive. Honey is a good alternative as it keeps the moisture trapped in the skin, something that dry skin needs. Honey has antimicrobial properties that help the skin’s immune system adapt. 

If your skin is dry and sensitive, it’s best to test products on a patch of skin before you use them. Substances such as citric, lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids are AHAs that are good for skin that is not prone to breakouts. 

For combination skin 

Since combination skin is a contradictory mix of oily and dry skin, finding the right ingredient that doesn’t clog the pores and cause dry skin is not easy. The hyaluronic acid serum is your ingredient of choice for combination skin. Amazingly, hyaluronic acid can combat oiliness and dryness at the same time.  

here is a list of products I am currently using:

toner - rose water 

exfoliater- st.ives peach scrub 

serums - niacinimide serum and tea tree serum occasionally 

4. Moisturising - this is a necessary step no matter what type of skin you have you need to moisturise to lock all the goodness in for the day and for your skin to stay hydrated. 

i personally use the cetaphil moisturiser: 

5. sunscreen- during the day, even if you don't go out of your house applying sunscreen is very very important and is commonly misunderstood as to only be applied while going out.

my favs are - 

 

some influencers/celebs you can follow if you are interested in skincare are- 

SKINCARE BY HYRAM

HARPERS BAAZAR 

HAILEY BEIBER

and so many more! 

thank you for reading and if you have any suggestions/anything to say dont be shy and comment down below or you can email me at dishita.maheshwari1@gmail.com