The skin is the largest organ in the body, so it’s no wonder that taking proper care of it is important. Your daily habits and the products you use have a huge impact on how your complexion looks, so it’s important to develop a regimen that works for your specific skin type. While serums, masks, peels, and other advanced skincare products certainly have their place in any routine, it’s also important to remember that the basics are the best way to start.
A good cleanser is the foundation of any skin https://waxingbyceleste.com/ care routine. To create the perfect canvas, dermatologist and esthetician Anna-Marie Ross recommends a cleanser designed for your specific skin type:
Oily Skin (Morning/Night): “Oil breeds bacteria, which leads to breakouts, so it’s important to keep oily skin clear with a gentle gel cleanser that doesn’t contain too many sulfates,” she says. Look for formulas that include alpha or beta hydroxy acids to unclog pores, reduce redness and sun damage, and boost collagen production. She adds that it’s important to cleanse at least three times a day, and to use a clarifying toner before applying an exfoliant. She suggests SkinMedica’s AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, which contains both exfoliants and anti-aging ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, jojoba, and green tea.
Combination Skin (Morning/Night): If you have both dry and oily areas, a gentle cleansing balm or gel with exfoliating properties, like AHAs or BHAs, is the best solution. After washing, it’s important to hydrate your skin with a cream or lotion, like Rouleau’s The Water Cream ($72). The hydrator is rich in antioxidants and naturally revitalizing ingredients, including rosemary and peppermint. It’s also an excellent option for people with sensitive skin.
All Skin Types (Morning/Night): No matter what your skin type is, every complexion needs a good moisturizer, and an SPF of 30 or higher is essential for all skin types. For dry skin, look for a hydrator with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and seal in moisture; and for oily or combination skin, look for a lightweight gel or non-comedogenic formula that’s also formulated with pore minimizers.
For any complexion, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun, especially if you have darker or more sensitive skin. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with the physical blocker zinc oxide, as well as an SPF of 30 or higher, is your best bet. Using an SPF on your lips is a must, too, as it helps prevent sun-induced wrinkles and fine lines. When choosing a sunscreen, be sure to read the label to ensure it’s a broad spectrum. You can also consider a tinted SPF, which helps disguise flaws while providing protection from the sun. For additional protection, consider a hat and sunglasses and always wear protective clothing in the sun.