When it comes to skincare, many people seem to lack knowledge regarding the proper routine and which beauty products to use. More than half of Americans admit that they feel uninformed when it comes to something as basic as proper facial cleansing. A study found that approximately 52% of consumers use a basic hand or bath soap to wash their face.
Developing a proper skincare routine can greatly improve the health of your skin while also reducing issues, such as the appearance of clogged or enlarged pores. Knowing which skincare products to use is also a must. Here, we will discuss the top five skincare products that everyone should own for healthy, glowing looking skin.
Top Five Products Considered a Must-Have
While five products may sound like overkill, you will quickly find that each product enhances the other. For instance, simply using a facial cleanser is not enough to achieve healthy looking skin. Combining other products, such as moisturizers, can go a long way toward obtaining irresistibly smooth skin.
Cleanser
Every skincare routine demands a high-quality facial cleanser. There is no point applying products to your face if you do not start with a clean palette. It is recommended that you clean your face in the morning and again at night. Cleansers remove makeup, dirt, and oil, which helps to remove dead skin and clogged pores. Keep in mind that you will want to select a cleanser based on your skin type such as those made by CeraVe or Aveeno.
The best way to apply a cleanser is to dampen your skin first. Apply the cleanser using small circular motions and light pressure. The skin of your face is often delicate, which is why you should not apply the product aggressively. Massage the cleanser into your face thoroughly for at least 30 seconds before rinsing with lukewarm water. Finally, pat – do not rub – your face dry using a soft, clean towel. For best results, use cleansers once in the morning and again at night.
Exfoliator
Exfoliators take your daily skincare regimen up a notch. While cleansers remove dirt and oil, exfoliators remove extra layers of dead, dry skin, which helps improve texture and appearance. By following up with an exfoliator, you make it easier for your skin to absorb moisturizers. It will also allow you to apply your makeup more evenly for a smoother looking appearance. Commonly used brands of exfoliators include La Roche-Posay and Neutrogena.
Apply an exfoliator in a similar manner that you did your cleanser. Use gentle pressure and apply in circular motions for at least 30 seconds. Rinse your face using lukewarm water. Avoid exfoliating if you have any wounds or cuts on your face as it can increase irritation. Once again, pat your face dry. Although you can exfoliate your face twice a day, it is not necessary. However, you should at least exfoliate in the morning after using your cleanser of choice.
Toner
After you finish cleaning and exfoliating your skin, make sure you apply a high-quality toner such as those made by Lancôme or SkinCeuticals. Look for a toner that contains ingredients such as lactic or salicylic acid and BHAs. Toners remove yet another layer of skin that even the most quality cleansers and exfoliators do not. If you are someone with dry skin, look for a hydrating toner to avoid issues with irritation. Applying a toner will help brighten the appearance of your skin, minimize the appearance of pores, and prep your face for moisturizers and serums.
To apply toner to your face, use a clean cotton pad. Apply the product using light pressure swipe the pad along the skin, ensuring you cover your entire face. Use the toner of your choice twice a day, such as once in the morning and once at night.
Moisturizer
Moisturizer is the last product you should use in your skincare regimen. If there are any serums you wish to add to your routine, aside from an anti-aging serum, make sure you use them before you moisturize. You will find that in doing so, your moisturizer will work much better and will go a lot farther. You will likely need less of the product to add moisture to your skin. A quality moisturizer, such as those made by Cetaphil or Eucerin, improves the skin’s water content, which reduces dryness and makes the skin appear younger. It also acts as a barrier to protect your skin.
Moisturizer is best applied to damp skin. Do not rub the product into your face. Instead, use gentle, upward strokes to apply your moisturizer to help achieve a skin lifting effect. Another recommended method for application is to gently tap the product into your skin. Make sure you moisturize your skin in the morning as the last step of your skin cleaning routine. It is not necessary to use a moisturizer at night if you plan on using a product that reduces the effects of aging.
Anti-aging Cream or Serum
Products that reverse or reduce signs of aging come in the form of serums or creams. It is best to apply this product during your nighttime facial cleaning routine. You can skip using your moisturizer at night in favor of using a product that reduces the signs of aging since many of these products often contain moisturizers already. Make sure you choose a product that contains retinol, which is an ingredient that promotes the growth of new cells for younger, healthier looking skin. Top brands often include L’Oréal Paris and Olay.
When applying this product, it is best to ensure your face is clean and dry. Either dab the product onto your skin using light pats or use circular motions that descend toward your neck. It is not necessary to use this product twice a day. Instead, you should use it at night after you finish the other steps of your skincare regimen.
Achieving healthy, glowing, younger looking skin is easier than you think. Although it seems like a lot goes into a daily skincare regimen, you will be surprised how quick and easy it is. Besides, everyone deserves a bit of self-pampering. If you are ready to get your skincare regimen underway, be sure to try out the recommended products and share your experience in the comments below.
