For some, skincare is splashing a little water on their face at night and applying lotion. Others may have a whole shelf’s worth of creams, lotions, and face washes. While the simple approach might work for some, others need more in their routine.
Finding what works best for you and your skin is key. No matter your skin type, there are many tips you can employ to elevate your skincare routine. Doing so will make a big difference in your skin’s condition.
Following these tips won’t cost you a fortune or take up a lot of time, either. And some of them might surprise you. Check out these four tips to help you get the most out of your skincare routine.
1. Address Blemishes
Many think once the teen years are behind you, your acne will go away. One frustrating thing about pimples is they can follow you into adulthood. For some people, reducing acne is as simple as washing their face or back more often. Others need medical intervention.
If you have more than a few blemishes, don’t ignore them, especially if they are severe. Acne can be painful and, at times, embarrassing. If your entire back is broken out, for example, you might feel hesitant to take your shirt off at the pool.
Don’t pick or pop your pimples. Doing this spreads the bacteria and could potentially cause scarring. You’re also exposing the pimple to more bacteria when you pop it open.
If you’re still fighting acne, there are many potential remedies. You might find that over-the-counter cleansers, toners and ointments help. Or you may require prescription acne treatment. Thanks to some telehealth providers, you can even get your prescription online and have it delivered right to your home.
2. Modify Your Diet
Did you know what you eat affects more than just your waistline? Your diet can affect how you feel in many ways. Gut health may be impacted by not having enough fiber. Many systems don’t function at their best without enough water. Physicians have even found a correlation between mental health and diet.
One of the first ways to improve your skincare routine is by looking at the foods you eat and drink. The skin is the largest organ in the body, so signs of improper nutrition will often show up there. Not getting enough water can cause dryness, wrinkles, saggy skin due to less elasticity, and even acne. Drinking more water helps flush harmful substances out of your body, clearing up your skin and also hydrating you.
In addition to more water, dermatologists suggest paying attention to the foods you’ve been eating when breakouts occur. Some studies suggest eating lower-glycemic foods may reduce breakouts. Why is this? Foods and drinks that are high in fat and sugar content cause spikes in your blood sugar.
These spikes have the potential to cause inflammation in your entire body. They can also cause you to make increased sebum, which is essentially your skin oil. Increased oil levels might lead to clogged pores and more acne. If you struggle with either acne or dry skin, start by looking at the foods and drinks you’re consuming.
3. Wash Your Skin, but Not Too Much
This might seem like a no-brainer, but many people forget to wash or don’t do it at the proper times. Washing your face removes dirt and oil, which are often the culprits that clog your pores. If you wear makeup, wash your face before applying it, and remove it at the end of the day as well. More than just your face, wash your body. If you’ve had a hard workout, for example, don’t just let the sweat dry; make sure to cleanse your skin.
While showering and washing your face are important, so too is the type of washcloth or loofah you’re using. Don’t scrub too hard, and be sure to use gentle soaps. For some, gentle soap and water might be enough to keep their skin clean and glowing. Others may find facial or body washes are best for their skin type. There are many types to choose from, so look for scrubs that address your skin type and needs.
While it’s good to keep skin clean, washing too much can cause it to dry out or get irritated. Pay attention to your skin and how it feels. Some people are naturally drier, while others are more oily. Do what works best for your skin.
Don’t know your skin type? Ask your doctor or dermatologist. There are even quizzes online that can help point you in the right direction.
4. Moisturize for Your Skin Type
Your skincare routine is a full experience from the inside out. As important as it is to drink water for hydration, so too is moisturizing. Depending on your skin type, you might need more lotion than others. Just like face washes, there are several moisturizers to choose from for different skin types.
Using a different lotion for your face and body can be beneficial in many ways. Facial lotions tend to be lighter and are formulated to target different needs. There are moisturizers for oily skin, dry skin, and even ones with anti-aging properties.
Still, others may include sunblock within the moisturizer to protect and hydrate your skin at the same time. If you’re going to be out in the sun, using a daily sunblock can protect your skin from harmful rays. Extended sun exposure damages the skin, so protecting it allows you to get the full benefits of your skincare routine.
Paying proper attention to your skin will help you look and feel better. What’s more, taking care of your body holistically allows you to maximize your skincare routine. The way you take care of your body inside will reflect outward in your skin.
