7 Basic Steps of a Proper Skincare Routine

Step 1. Cleansing

Before applying anything to your face, you must make sure it’s squeaky clean, otherwise you’ll have to deal with clogged pores, breakouts, inflammation, and other problems. The most important thing about this step is that you need to choose the right cleanser that matches your skin type and doesn’t strip your skin of its natural moisture and oils.

More on the topic: 8 Tips for Washing Your Face Properly

Step 2. Toning

A lot of people skip toning because they think that toners are just a marketing trick to make people buy more products. Boy, are they wrong! Toners serve a variety of purposes: they help balance the skin’s pH and hydro-lipid barrier after cleansing, deliver active ingredients into the skin, and make the skin look fresh and glowing.

Step 3. Serums

If you have normal skin which doesn’t suffer from any particular problem, you can skip this step. However, very few people have flawless skin. Thanks to their high concentration of active ingredients, serums helps solve specific problems like dry and flaky skin, premature wrinkles, blemishes, and so on.

More on the topic: How to Choose the Right Facial Serum for Your Skin

Step 4. Eye Cream

The older you get, the more attention you should pay to the delicate skin around your eyes. Regular use of eye creams helps maintain the skin’s elasticity and prevent under-eye bags, dark circles and crow’s feet.

Step 5. Spot Treatment

If you have any blemishes, now’s the time to do something about them. Apply a small amount of an anti-inflammatory or spot-drying treatment (for example, tea tree oil) to your pimples and let it dry. Of course, if your skin is blemish-free, you can skip this step.

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Step 6. Moisturizing

According to some people, moisturizing is the cornerstone of skincare. Proper hydration is essential to prevent premature skin aging and keep your skin protected from the environment. The choice of moisturizer depends on your skin type: if you have dry skin, opt for a thick cream. If your skin tends to be oily, choose a lightweight moisturizer.

More on the topic: What Is the Difference Between Emollients, Humectants and Occlusives?

Step 7. Sunscreen

Sunscreen isn’t just for summer. Your skin needs protection from the sun all the year round regardless of weather conditions. Sun protection is essential for preventing fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer.

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