Taking a vacation is one of the best moments in our lives. A little rest and relaxation won’t hurt, especially if you want to pump your life to the fullest.

However, traveling can also put you at risk of eating too much food, drinking excessive alcohol, and having long sun exposure, which can cause more damage, not only to your skin but also to your overall health. 

The good news is you can still enjoy life without compromising your health. Here are the ten steps to follow for your post-vacation skincare regime:

10-Step Post-Vacation Skincare Regime

Do good things for yourself and start pampering your skin with this ten-step skincare routine:

Step 1: Double Cleanse Your Skin

Start your self-care regime by cleansing your skin. Massage it with a cleansing balm and a gentle facial wash.

Develop the right cleansing routine by finding the right cleanser to remove dirt and impurities while strengthening your outer skin barrier.

Step 2: Exfoliate Dead Skin Cells

A dead cell releases acne-causing bacteria that might inflame our skin. We don’t want that to happen, so it is best to start exfoliating to prevent and remove clogged pores and breakouts. 

If you are looking for a gentle exfoliator, you can try the Himalaya Gentle Exfoliating Daily Face Wash. The formula of this product contains exfoliating acids that can cleanse your skin, get rid of dead skin cells, and stimulate cell renewal.

Step 3: Nourish Your Skin with a Facial Mask

Don’t be shy to go the extra mile in pampering yourself. Since vacations can make your skin sensitive, you must obtain the perfect amount of minerals from vitamin-infused face masks.

Make sure to grab a couple of face masks that are great for unclogging pores and soothing the skin. You can use Ponds Vitamin Duo Sheet Masks to make your skin glowing, supple, and radiant.

Step 4: Pat in Some Toner

Toners can soothe any irritation and give a beautiful glow to your skin, so it is important to incorporate them into your daily routine.

Freshen up your face without stripping off its natural moisture with the Luxe Organix Whitening Repair Essence Toner. This product contains niacinamide and vitamin B3, which are perfect for people with sensitive skin. 

Step 5: Hydrate Dry Skin Using a Serum

Adding the perfect serum to your routine can hydrate your skin from within. A good serum reduces wrinkles and the appearance of sunspots. It also protects your skin from environmental aggressors and sun damage.

Achieve healthy skin using the Apotheke Niacinamide. It is a blemish-control serum that treats acne build-up and pigmentation. With its water-based formula that contains niacinamide and aloe vera extract, you can instantly hydrate your skin while improving its condition.

Step 7: Moisturize Dehydrated Skin

Lack of hydration may lead to dark spots and breakouts. Restore the moisture to your dry skin using a good moisturizer. 

Apply the Celeteque DermoScience Advanced Anti-Aging Anti-Wrinkle Facial Moisturizer with SPF 15 for long-lasting relief from dehydration. This moisturizer improves the elasticity of your skin and increases collagen production.

Step 8: Depuff Your Eyes With Eye Cream

Staying up all night may cause you to develop puffy eyes and dark circles. That being said, use an eye cream every night to repair dehydration and discoloration around your eyes. 

One of the best eye creams for post-vacation skin dehydration is the Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex. It has a lightweight formula that instantly brightens dark circles, provides hydration, and repairs any signs of premature aging.

Step 9: Use Sunscreen For Protection

Investing in good sunscreen fights off sun tan, dark spots, and pigmentation from too much sun exposure.

Since this is one of the most important steps in any skincare regime, you may opt to apply more sunscreen daily to help prevent further damage against harmful UVA/UVB rays. 

You can purchase a water-based sunscreen to ensure that it provides maximum protection against sun exposure.

Step 10: Reveal Healthy, Radiant Skin

Achieve radiant skin by maintaining a good skincare routine that suits your lifestyle and skin type. Aside from your regular skincare routine, you can get skin procedures from local dermatologists, such as peeling treatments and lasers. 

5 Post-Vacation Skin Care Tips to Reboot Your Skin

Apart from using several skin care products, there are also different ways to take care of your skin. Here are five tips that you can incorporate into your routine:

Get Enough Sleep

As you travel from one place to another, you might sacrifice your sleep due to different time zones and late-night events. But this practice should not be glorified, as sleeping is one of the big contributors to your overall health.

Sleeping plays a role in maintaining our overall condition since the growth hormones, such as somatotropin, melatonin, and collagen, are produced during this period.

Moreover, a good amount of sleep can aid in improving the condition of your body, so it is important to get enough rest after your well-deserved vacation. 

Exercise

Another common yet important tip is to start exercising. Exercise promotes circulation to get rid of toxins and produce more collagen.

The stimulation of oxygen, nutrients, and collagen can help your body produce healthy cells and replace dead cells in the process. 

Without any doubt, exercising has so many benefits that are not just limited to our skin, but to our whole body as well. This is why you must get your body moving and reap the exercise benefits that await you.

Drink More Water and Less Alcohol

Alcoholic drinks can cause irritation and dehydration to our skin, which can pose serious problems once left untreated. Minimize your alcohol intake to avoid any redness and inflammation. Instead, drink plenty of water with a fresh-squeezed lemon. 

Although there’s nothing wrong with drinking alcohol occasionally, it is still important to drink responsibly. 

Eat Healthy Food

Eating healthy is essential in our body as it gives our skin the necessary nourishment it deserves. Take extra caution in choosing what food to eat and start consuming a colorful plate of food with enough nutrients and vitamins.

In case you didn’t know, a colorful plate means putting whole foods together in one meal. 

Just like what people always say, “you are what you eat.” Likewise, our food can affect our body functions and physical appearance. 

Skip the Makeup

Although applying makeup is one of our guilty pleasures, it is essential to lessen its use unless very much needed.

Once you’ve established a good skincare routine, you should skip wearing makeup in the meantime. Since vacation makes your skin extra sensitive, makeup products can clog pores, irritate the skin, and accelerate aging. 

Do yourself a favor and give your skin a break. Instead of applying makeup, focus on moisturizing your face using a nourishing oil.

If it cannot be helped, you can use other alternative products that have the benefits of makeup and skincare at the same time, like a tinted moisturizer. 

It is best to give your skin a break and steer clear from makeup for at least a couple of days if you can. Remember to moisturize regularly and follow your routine to let your skin breathe after a vacation.

Final Note

Going on a vacation is one of the greatest forms of self-care. We can enjoy ourselves on our own, live our life to the fullest, and travel anywhere we want. While doing so, it is necessary to still take care of our health and maintain healthy habits. 

Take good care of yourself before, during, and after your vacation. After all, skincare is a form of self-love. In that way, we can learn to treat our skin with love.

Everybody wants to start a skincare routine. However, it can be hard to know where exactly to begin. There are so many products, ingredients, tools, and gadgets that can be confusing. If you want to curate your own regime, you are in the perfect place!

In this article, we will be discussing how to create your own regimen so you can easily figure out what works best for you.

What is a skincare routine?

Technically, skin care is a type of self-care to improve the health and appearance of your skin. A skincare routine, on the other hand, is the process of how you will be taking care of your skin, ranging from the use of different products to engaging different procedures.

Can a Skin Care Routine Remove Dead Skin Cells?

Removing dead skin cells can be part of the exfoliating process of your routine. Exfoliating can be done with physical exfoliants or chemical exfoliants. 

Physical exfoliants use scrubbing particles to manually exfoliate the skin’s surface. Meanwhile, chemical exfoliants use ingredients to chemically remove the dirt from the skin.

However, exfoliation is not for everyone. Although it improves your skin, it could cause more harm than good if not done correctly.

Removing dead skin cells is only a part of the whole skincare journey. A good skincare routine also makes your skin smoother and brighter.

Things to remember in creating a skincare routine

Skincare is personal, so the approach to creating your skincare routine is also personal. Even if you depend on other people with their skin care tips, your face may or may not react the same way. 

Know your skin type

It’s important to know your skin type before figuring out what to include in your skincare routine. This way, you are able to make informed decisions about products and products you should avoid. Knowing your skin type may seem like a daunting task, but once you have a basic understanding of how it works, it will be easier to determine if your skin has any major concerns that need addressing.

Moreover, determining your skin type is the initial step in achieving optimum skin care for yourself.

Oftentimes, to figure out your skin type, you have to do a bit of trial and error. But there is a more scientific way: Think about your face without any cosmetics or products a few hours after taking a shower. Below are the skin types you can refer to:

Normal Skin

A normal skin type is balanced. It is not overly greasy or overly dry. After taking a shower, it doesn’t feel flaky, tight, or oily. People with normal types usually have tiny pores, and smooth skin, and are less sensitive or prone to blemishes. 

Oily Skin

People with oily skin usually feel greasy minutes after a shower. If the skin produces extra sebum, excess oil will come out from the skin. They may also be more exposed to acne, blackheads, and whiteheads. 

Dry Skin

Natural oil production in dry skin is typically lower than on other skin types. Flaky and rough skin may also appear more obvious. If you feel an extra dull face, you may have a dry skin type. Pretty Me has curated a routine that is best for people with dry skin.

Combination Skin

Combination skin type has both dry and oily patches. Usually, people with combination skin have dry patches on the cheek area, while the T-zone is oily.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is not frequently referred to as one of the common skin types since people with sensitive skin types can also have oily, dry, normal, or combination skin.

However, if you have sensitive skin, your skin tone may seem red and itchy. Individuals with this type can also feel a burning sensation after contact with particular chemicals or external irritants. 

Acne-prone Skin

If you get frequent breakouts or acne, you definitely have an acne-prone skin type. Just like people with sensitive skin types, people with acne-prone skin can have either dry or oily skin.

The products that should be used by people with this type of skin should be non-comedogenic, meaning the product should not trigger acne and clog pores.  If you want to know more about this skin type, you can read our article on the best routine for acne-prone people.

Mature Skin

A duller and drier skin, mature skin type is common in adults. If you have prominent wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation, there is a chance that your skin is mature.

Remember Star Ingredients

Star ingredients or “active ingredients” target specific skin concerns. This is the key to why the product is effective on your skin. If you have specific skin issues, you can definitely try some of the active ingredients on the list and scout for potential skin care products. Just take note that there are ingredients that should not be mixed together.

Alpha-Hydroxy acids (AHAs)

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are acids originating from water-soluble plants. AHAs are primarily used for exfoliation. The most commonly used AHAs are glycolic acid and lactic acid.

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)

BHAs are mostly used to treat UV damage and acne. These acids unclog your pores by drying out extra oils inside the deepest parts of your hair follicles. The most common BHA in the market is salicylic acid.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is typically used to treat mild to moderate acne. It helps in reducing acne-causing bacteria.

Hyaluronic Acid

A type of moisturizing ingredient, hyaluronic acid is a humectant that absorbs and retains water. It can also make the skin glowy along with its hydrating effect. 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that brightens the skin. This ingredient can also help support your sunscreen in protecting you against the sun.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient that acts as an antioxidant that helps nourish and protects your skin from damage caused by free radicals. 

Skincare Routine for Beginners 

Given the variety of skincare products available on the market, curating a skin care regimen is not an easy task. It might feel like you’re on your own in attempting to choose which skin care product is right for you as it appears like there are new trends and names appearing every week. But at the very least, a good morning and night routine is the key to making your skin healthy.

Cleansing

Cleansing is an important step in a skincare routine. The role of facial cleansers is to clean the pores and eliminates the excess sebum from the face. However, frequent cleansing might make your face dry and irritable. 

First Cleanse

During the night, you may want to double the care by double cleansing. As you wear makeup during the day, leftover dirt can lead to clogged pores. The idea of double cleansing is basically applying two cleansing products, first with an oil-based product followed by a water-based facial cleanser.

A makeup remover like cleansing balms, cleansing oils, and micellar water can be used as a gentle cleanser. (Makeup wipes are not that recommended!)

Second Cleanse

Although first cleansing using an oil-based cleanser isn’t that relevant to some, cleansing with a water-based product is essential to everyone. While it removes impurities like sweat and dirt, cleansing is also the backbone of the skincare regimen as it sparks more healthy skin.

You can use any hydrating cleansers or gentle cleansers to wash your face. 

Toning

If you are thinking that toners are harsh on the face, you are mistaken. There are different toner formulations that work for different skin types. 

Toners are made to prepare the face for upcoming products as it adds extra hydration. Just put a few drops of the toner on the cotton pad. Apply it to your skin from the lower part of your face upward.

Some toners also have exfoliating properties, but they should only be applied one to two times a week after cleansing. 

Moisturizing

Moisturizers are great products to include in your daily routine whether you have a dry or oily face. Rich moisturizers can help your face feel hydrated and refreshed. Those with drier faces or using acne treatments may want to use a moisturizer every morning and night.

Some people also use facial oil as their overall facial moisturizer. If you want extra hydration around your eyes, you can also use a good eye cream.

Sun Protection

Sun exposure can cause skin cancer and early signs of aging. Using good sunscreen can help you maintain healthy glowing skin.

You can use either mineral or chemical sunscreens to protect your skin. Mineral or physical sunscreens act as a shield by preventing the sun’s rays from reaching the skin. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens shield the skin from UV rays by absorbing them.

Some sunscreen ingredients like zinc oxide can form a white cast when applied especially on people with darker skin tones. 

A broad-spectrum SPF protects the skin from both UVA and UVB radiation. Therefore, this is the recommended formulation in choosing a sunscreen as part of your skincare routine.

Others

If you want to spice up your skincare routine, you can add facial serums, facial oils, and eye creams.

Final Note

When I was starting my skincare journey, I had no idea what I was doing with my face. Since I didn’t know what my face needed, I basically brought almost all of the things I knew from Youtube influencers. Little did I know that skin care is a personal thing, curated to cater to our skin concerns. What works for someone doesn’t really mean that it’ll work for me a hundred percent. 

Skincare is one of the important self-care practices we should know about, and it is worth investing in our own skin.

If you have further skin health concerns, a board-certified dermatologist can help you achieve healthy and smoother skin. 

Acne-prone skin requires a good, baseline skin care routine, especially if you want to prevent scarring. Often, what we call acne scars are leftovers from swollen pimples that damage the skin’s collagen. Add sun exposure and these dark spots turn into hyperpigmented marks, known as acne scarring. 

That’s because inflammation actually signals pigment-producing cells to work overtime, resulting in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Another kind of acne scars you can get are the reddish-pink spots called post-inflammatory erythema (PIE).

Most acne scarring fades away on its own over time, but the process can be sped up with the right acne treatments. So, do you want to know exactly how you can get rid of acne marks while keeping your skin healthy, hydrated, and fresh? Why, we’ve got the perfect skincare routine for improving acne blemishing right here. Read on!

Here’s A Morning Routine for Acne-Prone Skin

No matter your skin type, having a foundational AM routine prevents dark marks, ice pick scars, uneven texture, and sun damage that can happen after exposure to harmful UV rays. Your skin requires the utmost care during the day, especially if you already have sensitive skin to begin with, or if you’re just recovering from previous acne scars.

Here are the skincare products we recommend for day use:

Gentle Cleanser

Mild is the way to go. Even for normal skin or oily ones, we find that a gentle cleanser works better in the long run than one that might damage skin texture. You know, those cleansers with little beads that claim to scrub away acne marks in the process? Or ones that have too-high concentrations of active exfoliants, alcohol, and other irritants that may not protect skin enough. These are all bad news. 

On the other hand, a mild cleanser simply strips away the impurities while still keeping your pH balance at a healthy number. This is important as having too-dry skin after washing might trigger your skin cells to produce more oil, which might result in more breakouts.

Acne Treatment (AHAs, Salicylic Acid, etc.)

Prevention is better than cure, and one way to reduce acne scars is by treating your acne while it is still fresh. An acne treatment, such as an exfoliating toner or a spot treatment cream, allows you to zap those zits right from the source so they don’t turn into marks or scarring.

The best skin treatment products usually contain active ingredients like salicylic acid (a super potent beta hydroxy acid), glycolic acid, azelaic acid, lactic acid, and so on. These chemical exfoliants help aid what’s known as skin cell turnover, which is the skin’s natural process of shedding dead skin cells to reveal brighter skin. 

Salicylic acid is super effective in removing whiteheads and blackheads, while glycolic acid makes sure gunk won’t clog up your pores and cause active acne, thus reducing your chances of accumulating acne scars.

However, if you’re already in the midst of a terrible breakout, a product that treats acne would be best. This can vary, but it’s best to consult a professional for a prescription.

Brightening Serum

Another important step in treating acne scars is a brightening serum. Serums are great because aside from their wonderful exfoliating properties, they also tend to be super hydrating and great even for sensitive skin. 

Our favorite brightening ingredients are alpha arbutin, niacinamide, and vitamin C. These are often accompanied by actives like lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and so on, which help remove dead skin cells and keep the skin looking young and fresh.

Alpha arbutin is a well-known and super effective skin lightener, and you’ll often find it in the ingredients list of rejuvenating sets. Another fave of ours is vitamin C, which is not only an antioxidant but a prohibitor of melanin production, basically, a skin lightener. Vitamin C helps get rid of hyperpigmentation and dark spots which makes it great for lightening acne scars.

To add a pinch of hydration, look for a serum with hyaluronic acid in the ingredients list. HA helps your skin hold on to moisture throughout the day while also repairing your skin barrier.

Sunscreen

Finally, apply a generous amount of skin-loving sunscreen to guard against unwanted UV rays. Not only is it one of the most important skincare steps for any skin type, but it is super helpful for oily and acne-prone skin. Acne scars are often worsened by prolonged exposure to UV rays, outdoors or otherwise. That means even if you’re sitting at home, or if it’s cloudy, you still need to wear sunscreen.

Of course, sunscreen has a ton of benefits for the skin, such as evening the skin tone and keeping it youthful, so don’t be surprised if you notice a different glow after a few weeks of consistent use. Sun damage is also one cause of early aging signs, uneven skin tone, dryer-looking skin, and more, making sun protection all the more important.

Now, Here’s A Nighttime Routine

You didn’t think we’d forget your PM routine, did you? You need to recharge your skin overnight, which is why we’re going to pack on a ton of ultra-nourishing skincare products in this part of the regimen. Take a look.

Double Cleansing

If you find yourself wearing makeup constantly, then you can also opt for the double-cleansing method. This K-beauty staple is all about using two types of cleansers, one oil-based to remove makeup and another foam or water-based. Makeup residue can clog your pores and impede skin cell turnover, so make sure to do this if you’re packing those powders and creams during the day. 

Brightening Night Cream

These brightening creams are exceptional at gently fading away acne scars over time, and it’s also a good idea to apply them at night where you won’t have to face excruciating heat. You can choose an exfoliating serum for the perfect balance of moisturization.

Our favorites are pretty much the same: glycolic acid and other AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and retinol for stimulating collagen production. The chemical exfoliants speed up skin cell turnover without being too harsh on your skin, while the vitamin C inhibits the production of melanin.

Tip: if you don’t like the greasy feeling of an overnight cream, look for one that’s effective enough with just a thin layer. 

Bonus: Acid Treatment for Dead Skin Cells

This extra step is one you can do once or twice a week, depending on how tough your skin is. An acid treatment is usually a cocktail of chemical exfoliants such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, ferulic acid, and so on. Definitely start once a week for sensitive skin types then slowly build tolerance by upping the frequency every two weeks.

Final Note

Remember that no matter where you are in your skincare journey, loving yourself first is what brings out that attractive glow. That means taking care of your skin by taking it slow, even if the journey is frustrating. 

If you’re unsure as to what products will work for you, don’t rush to pile on different things at once! It’s always best to talk to a professional if you can, or do your own extensive research. Patience is the key.

We hope this guide was helpful for you! Make sure to read more of our posts on beauty, lifestyle, and health right here at Pretty Me.

Do you suffer from having dry, scaly patches of inflamed skin on your face, sides of the nose, or behind your ears? You’re not alone. In the United States, around 11% of the population is diagnosed with a skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis. This disease is characterized by inflamed skin and scaly patches in the head and oil-producing parts of the face. The epidermis appears reddish and flaky on affected areas, usually because of too many oils produced by the skin.

While data shows that more men get diagnosed with seb derm than women, this tricky skin condition isn’t exclusive to one group. It’s also a lot more common in infants and middle-aged people. However, it’s perfectly normal for young adults to contract this skin disease. In fact, there are plenty of people of different age groups who suffer from it.

If you’ve noticed that your face tends to break out in oil-like flakes, then you might have seborrheic dermatitis. That’s the bad news. But the good news is — you don’t have to suffer! In this guide, we tell you how to craft the perfect skincare routine for seborrheic dermatitis. But first, let’s define what seborrheic dermatitis is and what it isn’t.

What is seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrhea, is a form of chronic inflammation of the skin/epidermis and scalp that usually shows up in the form of red, scaly, and/or itchy dry patches. Most people only suffer mild cases, but an unlucky few can have terrible side effects, including hair loss.

This condition is quite similar to eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis. The two ailments have plenty of things in common, including inflamed patches of skin, scaliness, rash, and itchiness in the scalp or areas on the face.

However, seborrheic dermatitis occurs more often in oil-producing parts of the face and on parts where hair is grown. Ever noticed dandruff-like flakes on the scalp in your eyebrows? Yep, it’s probably seb derm. Red, itchy flakes in your t-zone (the area of the epidermis on your face that produces the most oils) are also most likely to be symptoms of seborrhea. 

Another common sign is redness or a rash on the sides of the nose that feel oily to the touch. However, people of any skin type can develop seb derm. It’s not limited to those whose skin produces more oils than others.

Seborrhea is also possibly a reaction to the oils/yeast found in one’s skin. There’s a thing called Malassezia yeast found in the skin microbiome, or the part of the skin that houses all the bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This yeast found in the oil-producing parts of the face is naturally tolerated by the skin since it colonizes at an early age. However, overgrowth of the Malassezia yeast/oils causes the immune system to overreact, hence the inflammation. 

Malassezia yeast, along with environmental and genetic factors, all contribute to this chronic inflammatory skin disease. However, the recommended maintenance is quite simple: maintaining good hygiene. If you’re constantly cleaning your face and removing all the oil and gunk that accumulates, then you’re less likely to develop seborrheic dermatitis. Finding the right cleanser for your skin type is essential, as frequent cleaning will remove all the nasty oils and flakes where the seborrhea is often triggered.

Is seborrhea the same thing as psoriasis?

Seb derm is quite similar to another skin condition called psoriasis. However, the two vary in plenty of ways. For one thing, seborrhea flakes are more oil-like and greasy. They tend to feel that way when scratched off. 

On the other hand, psoriasis appears in the form of reddish patches of skin which are often silvery. You can get psoriasis on any part of the body, including the face and scalp. Psoriasis isn’t limited to just the oil-producing parts of the face. Psoriasis is similarly a chronic skin condition that can affect someone their whole life. Even then, it’s still manageable with proper habits, skincare products, and prescribed creams.

Oh, and it’s also possible for people to have both seborrhea and psoriasis at the same time.

Seborrhea is also a chronic disease, but easily treatable with over-the-counter creams, products, and the right skincare routine. More on that in a bit.

Who can get seborrheic dermatitis?

In babies, seborrhea or seborrheic dermatitis occurs in the form of cradle cap: small, oil-like flakes found in the scalp. But seborrhea also happens to teenagers, young adults, and people of all genders no matter their age. 

Infant seborrheic dermatitis often just goes away on its own. It’s the seborrhea that occurs when you’re a little older that is kind of hard to manage. It doesn’t really help that anyone, no matter their skin type, can get it.

So how exactly can one build a consistent skincare routine that gets rid of seborrhea among all the other common problems? We outline a simple and effective skincare routine that’s going to keep your skin barrier healthy and your face flake-free. Let’s get into it!

Face and SkinCare Routine for Seborrheic Dermatitis

Since seborrhea is a chronic inflammatory condition, treatment can only manage it, but not completely cure it. However, several rounds of treatment can be super effective in getting rid of symptoms fast. If you want to get rid of those seb derm flakes the right way, listen up!

Your skincare regimen plays a gigantic role in helping you maintain a seb derm-free face. All the products, creams, lotions, and other skincare items you put on your face matter. While treating it isn’t always necessary because it just sometimes goes away on its own, it helps to be consistent in your routine to prevent further inflammation.

Step 1: Cleanse, cleanse, cleanse

Remember when we said frequent cleansing is super important in getting rid of facial dandruff? It’s true. Sometimes, it takes something as simple as a mild cleanser to put the flakes to rest. You can get an over-the-counter one for mild cases or consult your doctor and get a prescription cleanser. Just make sure you’re using something that is compatible with your skin type. 

If you have oil-prone skin, get a cleanser suited for oil-prone skin. If you have dry skin, find a product that is also suited for dry skin. The key here is to simply think of the needs of your skin first, and the seborrheic dermatitis will take care of itself. And never, ever try to just scratch it off with your bare hands. You don’t want to irritate your skin further.

Step 2: Moisturize

Follow up with a moisturizer after the cleanser. This step ensures that your skin isn’t too dried out as this can lead to the overproduction of sebum, worsening your seborrhea. Instead, find a moisturizer that is also compatible with your skin type. 

If you have skin prone to overproduction of oil, a light moisturizer will be enough to prevent water loss and keep your skin barrier healthy without that greasy feeling. Avoid smearing your face with thick oils if you have oily skin. People in this group should steer clear of coconut oil or olive oil, which is high in oleic acid, because that can only worsen your skin condition. 

However, if you’re certain the oils that you’re already using are good for your skin, then go ahead — just don’t forget to wash them off. Coconut oil is recommended by some experts as a remedy for those of drier skin types.

Step 3: Treatment

Is your seb derm getting out of hand? It might be a sign to consult a professional about the state of your skin. Your doctor will be able to provide medicated creams, oils, or other treatment solutions that specifically target seborrheic dermatitis. You may also try purchasing  over-the-counter creams such as antifungal or anti-yeast creams for your seborrhea. The latter ensures the naturally-occuring yeast does not overgrow, avoiding inflammation.

Aside from these, there are plenty of natural home remedies that can help lessen the irritation on your epidermis. Mayo Clinic suggests the following:

• Tea tree oil.  Tea tree oil is a great antimicrobial oil that’s often found in anti-acne products. Diluted with your carrier oil of choice (ie. coconut oil and olive oil), tea tree oil can be a powerful antifungal and anti-inflammatory agent. 
• Aloe vera gel. This powerhouse ingredient is practically one of the longest natural remedies for treating inflamed skin. Next time you experience a flare-up, try cutting up an aloe vera leaf and dabbing the gel on the affected area.
• Fish oil supplements. The omega-3 acids found in fish oil provide wonderful health benefits to the body, and one of them is suppressing dermatitis flare-ups brought about by too much Malassezia yeast on the face.
• Coconut oil. Dury’s out on this one, but it’s said that coconut oil can help soften the rash or scaliness on the face. Do try this out only if you’re confident that your skin won’t break out. Healthline advises this as one of the better solutions for people with dry skin.

These methods are ideal for the people who prefer all-natural solutions as opposed to pharmacological solutions. 

Step 4: Exfoliate

One important step in your skincare routine is exfoliation. No matter your skin type, exfoliation through chemical or physical means is a great way to remove dead skin cells. In turn, you get to unclog your pores, remove excess sebum, and keep other skin problems like blackheads, whiteheads, and acne at bay. 

Exfoliation is best done only once or twice a week, and it’s crucial to choose products that are compatible with your skin type to avoid irritating it further. You can choose between physical exfoliation, which involves a scrub to remove dead skin cells sitting on the surface of your face, or chemical exfoliators that melt away deep-seated dirt. 

The most popular chemical exfoliating products include ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid. To learn more about which ingredients are compatible for your skin type, read our guide to exfoliating acids here.

Bonus: Sunscreen

Healthy sun exposure plus sufficient outdoor physical activity is great at preventing the buildup of seborrhea or seb derm flare-ups. So, go and have your fun in the sun! Just make sure you’re applying enough sunscreen to minimize harmful exposure. Go for a non-irritating product with zinc oxide and make sure it’s compatible with your skin type.

Do’s and Don’ts of Having Seborrheic Dermatitis

Now that you know how to build the perfect skincare routine for seborrhea, the next step is to make a few lifestyle changes in order to prevent future flare-ups. Remember that this takes commitment! Paired with the right skincare routine, you’ll be on your way to a rash-free life. 

1. Do Exercise Regularly

Staying physically fit has plenty of obvious benefits, but one way it helps is by promoting better overall skin health. This is because regular movement encourages your body to produce natural antioxidants, which can protect your skin cells and prevent oxidative stress. The latter occurs when your body is unable to repair the damage caused by free radicals, which cause early signs of aging and skin stress.

2. Don’t Stress It

Speaking of stress, did you know it’s a huge factor that can damage your skin and cause seborrhea/seb derm flares? Yep. The next time you’re up worrying about your future or feeling burnt out from work, remember to sit back, relax, and pop on a mask or two! No matter what it is you’re stressing out about, it can’t possibly be more important than having great skin.

3. Do Maintain a Healthy Diet

This piece of advice is one that you’ve probably heard a million times, but it bears repeating: a healthy diet not only helps important body systems function at optimal levels, but it’s one of the best solutions to chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as seb derm, too. 

Food intake plays such a vital role that there’s even an anti-inflammatory diet recommended for people with these chronic conditions. The main idea is to eat anti-inflammatory foods as opposed to inflammatory ones. This basically means you should be eating more whole foods and fewer processed foods; maintaining a healthy balance of nutrients, protein, carbs and fat; and meeting the basic vitamin, mineral, and hydration needs of your body. 

4. Do Shower Regularly

Seborrheic dermatitis affects not just our face but our scalp, too. Hair care is just as important as skin care. It’s not just your epidermis that needs looking after, so make sure you’re cleaning your scalp regularly to avoid buildup of oil and flakiness. Any regular shampoo that your scalp likes is good enough. If you don’t notice any improvements, though, you might want to get a medicated dandruff shampoo. Do make sure that your hair products are effective in cleansing your head and don’t add to the damage.

5. Try Natural Treatments

The yeast causing seb derm that lives on your scalp isn’t going to go away on its own. To further prevent a nasty rash on different areas of your head, try the following home remedies:

• Apple Cider Vinegar. ACV on the scalp is a great way to get rid of excessive oils and buildup of dirt and dandruff. Simply apply a small amount, diluted with water, all over your scalp. Rinse it off afterwards.
• Olive oil. Yes, you heard it right. One effective way to get rid of unwanted oils is to remove them — with more oil. Coating your hair with olive oil right before shampooing can lock in some vital nutrients that get rid of unwanted oils in the first place. All you have to do is cover your scalp and strands with olive oil and leave it on for an hour. Rinse the oil off then proceed to shower and shampoo your hair as usual!

Recommended Product

CeraVe SA Cleanser

A Seborrheic Dermatitis skincare routine starts with the right cleanser. Try the CeraVe SA Cleanser, infused with Salicylic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide & Ceramides that gently exfoliate the face and reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.

Buy From Amazon

Final Note

We hope this article has given you some valuable information and insight into this tricky condition. Remember that no matter how difficult it gets, never lose hope that you’ll one day be able to suppress those flare-ups once and for all.

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Skin care is something that everyone should invest in yes, but have you ever thought of how much a person’s entire skincare routine can cost? A lot of people follow a ten-step or more routine, but there are also those who do a pared-down regimen. Whether you belong to either category, the cost of your products can still add up to way too much. 

Think about it, cleansers, moisturizers, serums, creams, face masks, and such. Some even have products that specialize in one thing, and then there also those times when you buy a product that has an outstanding advertisement, but find that it doesn’t work with you at all and you end up feeling like you wasted your money. Computing all those costs will end with a shocking grand total that you didn’t even realize you’ve accumulated already. 

While it’s good to acquire products that are the best. After all, the only thing we want for our skin is to be at its best. Spending extravagantly on skin care doesn’t always have to be the case. Our skin can still be at its best even if we don’t buy the most expensive products out there. Affordable beauty brands and products do exist, and they can definitely be your bang-for-the-buck best friends. Not only will your skin thank you for the great results, but your wallet and bank account will be grateful too.

What is a Good Basic Skincare Routine?

A good basic skincare routine doesn’t have to involve numerous products. It’s why it’s called a “basic” one, after all. Your basic routine can consist of the following steps:

• Cleansing
• Moisturizing
• Applying sunscreen

Those three steps are as basic as it gets. The first step ensures your skin is free from the dirt and grime that accumulated throughout the day, the second step makes sure your skin is supple and soft, while the last step protects your skin from the harsh sun. To know more about curating a quick and simple skincare routine, go to our guide.

How Do I Start a Simple Skincare Routine?

To know which affordable beauty products to search for your low-cost routine, it’s important to know a couple of things first. After all, you wouldn’t want to buy something that doesn’t suit you and end up spending more than you intended to. To start off, here’s a insider short list:

Know Your Skin Type

This is probably the most important step of all as it’s the basis of which skincare item you should get. Skin types can be classified into dry, oily, normal, acne-prone, combination, or sensitive skin. It’s important to identify which category your skin belongs to so that you know what kind of products or ingredients will work with your skin concerns. If you’re unsure of which category you belong to, you can seek out the advice of a dermatologist.

Research on Skincare Products

You now have an idea of your skincare concerns, it’s now time to research what kind of items and ingredients can help your skin. If you’re on the dry side, look for items that have moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, avocado oil, ceramides, or glycerin. If you have acne-prone, you can opt for things that have tea tree oil, salicylic acid, centella asiatica, witch hazel, and the like in its ingredient list. 

This research process also allows you to look up reviews by other people and read their user experience when they used the product. This can help you in narrowing down your choices as well.

Invest in Versatile Skincare Products

Multi-tasking skincare products can help you in paring down your routine and saving you from shelling out money for numerous items that only specialize in one thing. You can try multitaskers such as aloe vera gel, which can be a moisturizer and a soothing agent in one.

Bonus: Shop Local

Did you know that there are numerous makeup and skincare brands in the Philippines? If you didn’t, then now you know! It’s not bad to shop Asian beauty or Western labels especially if they work for you, but it’s nice to venture out once in a while and buy local. Buying locally can also help in supporting these labels, especially in this time that we live in.

Now that you have a starter list on what to do to achieve your affordable routine, it’s time to wade through products and find that effective, budget-friendly buy! Read on to check out our recommendations!

Affordable Skincare Finds

The road to flawless skin with affordable items is achievable despite what others may say. For that to happen, we conducted a search and listed our favorite budget buys to give you an idea on what you can do. Check them out!

Cleanser

Dermatologists have determined that it’s highly important to rinse our faces to get rid of dirt, grime, bacteria, and even leftover traces of makeup. Cleansers help bring back our skin to its fresh, clean state. For an affordable cleanser, you can try out the Biore Speedy Micellar Cleansing Foam. This cleanser can speedily remove makeup, unclog the build up of dirt and bacteria and can leave your skin feeling fresh and soft. 

Another suggestion we have is the Hada Labo Gokujyun Super Hyaluronic wash. This item can help keep your skin hydrated and protect the skin’s moisture barrier while getting rid of impurities.

If you’re someone who has sensitive skin, you can try out the Simple Moisturizing Face Wash. This facial wash can provide a gentle yet thorough cleanse for you to use daily without irritation. If you’re concerned about your oily t-zone, you can go for the Human Nature Balancing Facial Wash. This can cut down sebum, bacteria, and even reduce redness. It’s perfect for those who have combo skin as well.

Moisturizer

No matter what your skin type is, it’s highly important to moisturize and keep your face soft and supple. For a bang-for-the-buck moisturizer, check out the Nature Republic Aloe Vera Gel. This gel is cooling, moisturizing, and soothing. Best of all, it comes in a gigantic tub that can last you for a year. Another item to try is the iWhite Korea Aqua Moisturizer Glow. This one not only hydrates but also helps in evening out the skin tone and brightens your complexion during the day and while you’re in bed.

Sunscreen

It is vital to protect our skin from sun damage and reduce the risk of developing a host of issues caused by the harsh UV rays. According to dermatologists, one should keep in mind when buying a sunscreen is that it should be broad-spectrum and should have an SPF rating of 30 and above to ensure that you’re truly protected. Try out the Belo SunExpert Tinted Sunscreen that has a rating of SPF 50. This sunscreen also doubles as a cover to conceal fine lines around the forehead and eyes, wrinkles, and other blemishes. 

You can also check out the QuickFX Sunblock that has a rating of SPF 50. This sunblock helps prevent skin damages and aids in reducing sun spots, discoloration, and more. For more information, you can check out our QuickFX Sunblock review.

Others

We recommended items that cover the three most important steps of skin care. While you can always just go for the basics, there’s no harm in adding an item or two to fortify your regimen. You can add in a serum such as the Skinpotions Tomato Serum, which contains vitamins A and C, lycopene, and other nutrients in a bottle. It brightens the complexion, reduces inflammations, and gives you a radiant glow. 

You can also check out the Fresh Formula Rosy Glow Tonic, which contains glycolic acid that not only aids in hydration but also helps in restoring and energizing your skin with a radiant glow. 

If you don’t love the idea of putting on serums or toners, you can try a face mask to pamper yourself with after a stressful day. The QuickFX Liquid Ice Mask is a sheet mask that you can just lay down on your face and feel the cooling, soothing effects of it as you rest after a long day. Check out our review of the QuickFX Liquid Ice Mask to know more.

We hope that we were able to help you out with our suggestions to achieve an affordable skincare routine! Everything in this article is available in the Philippines and can be easily acquired. As always, what works for others may not work for you, and what works for you may not work for others. It’s always best to consult a dermatologist if you’re unsure of an item or an ingredient to use. Stay safe, stay beautiful, and love yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Cheap Skin Care?

We’ve already mentioned a couple of beauty labels that have affordable skincare lines, such as Human Nature, Simple, and Skinpotions. Another brand that you can be on the lookout for is QuickFX. We have a lot of product reviews on this brand, so check them out on our site. They all offer items that are effective and easy on the budget.

What is the Best Cleanser for Combination Skin?

If you are on the combination side, you can try items that are both clean and gentle on the skin. Aside from the Human Nature Balancing wash that we mentioned, you can also try the Hyalure Soap Free Skin Cleanser, which has no sulfates, parabens, or fragrance. It has a very delicate formulation that easily removes dirt and impurities without harming your skin. 

f you have more questions not discussed here, head to the comments sections and tell us about it!

What are the essential skin care products?

Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

Symptoms of oily skin include, well, constant oiliness. If you find yourself constantly reaching for a blotting sheet throughout the day to reduce some of the shine on your face, especially on your T-Zone, then you most likely have an oily skin type. Oftentimes, oily skin types will also be acne-prone. 

However, we classified that as a separate skin type because it is possible to be acne-prone without having oily skin. In fact, this can happen to anyone of any skin type. If this sounds like you, you may want to try gentle cleansers, light moisturizers, and avoid products that can cause oil to build up such as essential oils and heavy moisturizers.

Dry and Dehydrated Skin

Dry and dehydrated skin may sound like the same thing at first blush. However, there are a few patent differences between the two. For one, dry skin is usually followed by flakiness, cracks, sensitivity, and itching. Dry skin may be because of environmental factors such as the weather, or because of a chronic condition like eczema. 

Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, means the skin is unable to retain moisture as well as it should. Symptoms include a papery appearance or tight lines whenever pinched together. For these skin types, you may want to focus on hydration and moisture in each step of your routine. 

Combination Skin

If you can relate to having an oily T-zone and dry or dehydrated skin everywhere else on the face, then you probably have combination skin. This skin condition is fairly common and requires just a little bit more attention in terms of skincare and beauty products to apply, because you may want to try different products for different parts of your face. 

It’s a little high maintenance, but trust us, that attention to detail will pay off in the long run. Thanks to the Internet, we have access to a wide variety of skincare info that’ll save us some beauty mishaps. So don’t be afraid to delve into some research before getting the products for your combination skin.

Normal Skin

If you’re lucky, you’ll have a normal skin type. This means the skin doesn’t negatively react to new products, overproduce oil, or is sensitive. You’ll also have firm and plump skin. But this doesn’t mean you can skip having a skincare routine entirely! With the right products, you can help your face look even better than before. 

Now that you’ve determined your skin type, you’re ready to create the perfect skin care routine! This guide will help you determine the types of products to look for and what order to use them. Tweak it as you see fit, and remember to choose products that are made for your specific skin type. For example, some cleansers are more clarifying and stripping than others because they’re made for oily skin. If you have sensitive skin, steer clear of these and opt for gentle washes instead. Also, be aware that this route takes longer than what skincare rejuvenation sets promise, but trust us when we say this is the healthier option.

Cleanser

This is usually the first step to any routine, both day and night. Many people only cleanse once a day, but those who need it may try cleansing twice. I personally cleanse at night so I go to bed without any dirt and pollutants sticking to my face while I sleep, but I avoid doing it twice a day unless necessary so I don’t strip my sensitive skin of too much moisture.

Serum/Treatment

This part is usually for those who are prone to breakouts or have inflammatory acne. If you have the latter, you’ll already be familiar with different types of treatments and acne-fighting ingredients. Some of these include niacinamide, retinols, and acids. 

I have dry/sensitive skin, but I also use a niacinamide serum to get rid of acne marks. If you have a similar skin type, I’d say trial and error is the best measure here because you never know what might trigger a negative reaction. And stay away from harsh chemicals!

Moisturizer

A good moisturizer is the key to keeping one’s skin youthful and vibrant. It’s also a great way to prevent any fine lines and wrinkling caused by skin dehydration. So if you want plump and bright skin, don’t skip out on moisturizer! Aside from making your face feel smooth and luxurious, you’re also getting the hydration you deserve. Oily skin types may think that this step will only make their skin greasier, but it actually helps balance out the oiliness in your pores that is caused by dryness. Lightweight moisturizers might be the best fit for you if this is the case. Overall, this step is an important part of keeping the skin healthy and balanced.

Sunscreen (Day Use)

Good old sunscreen! If you think our parents overemphasized the importance of using sunscreen when we were kids, they didn’t. In fact, many skincare gurus recommend the religious use of sunscreen. This product helps prevent sun damage which can cause early signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines, even when we’re staying indoors! Darker skin is also caused by UV damage, so if you want to go back to your original skin tone or even out some dark spots, this product  is your best friend.

As a gal with sensitive skin, finding the right sunscreen has been tricky; most sunscreens tended to break me out due to the chemicals or high alcohol content. But part of crafting the perfect routine is trial and error, and beauty always comes with a little sacrifice. 

Our tip? Don’t settle for less! Eventually, you’ll find a product that will treat your skin right, and it’s worth holding out for.

Remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is the perfect skincare regimen. Don’t be frustrated when the first products you try aren’t a perfect match. Instead, do more research, find out why those products didn’t work for you, and take notes. 

Was there an ingredient you’re allergic to? Avoid it in the future. Did you misdiagnose your skin type? Switch your routine accordingly. The skincare and beauty journey is a long one, and even when you get it right, your skin’s needs can change over time. The best part of the beauty world is finding out what works for us and what doesn’t, and getting to know our skin better so we can give it the TLC it deserves!

What are trending in the beauty and skincare industry?

With the beauty industry being affected by the global health crisis, brands are learning to adapt to different beauty trends and needs. Now that we’re encouraged to stay indoors, the emphasis has been less on extravagant makeup and more on maintaining natural beauty through cleaner products, a.k.a. organic and sustainable ones. 

Read on to find out the biggest trends for skin care and beauty in 2021.

Clean beauty

We’ve seen the rise of organic skin care over time. But in 2021, it’s predicted to be one of the biggest trends in the beauty world. Needless to say, people have become, more than ever, concerned with how their lifestyle affects the environment. 

For the year, we’re seeing a rise in natural beauty products and organic skincare. Similarly, many have been promoting conscious buying in an effort to keep overbuying and therefore, waste, at a minimum. If you’re one to spend too much on skin care and cosmetics only to end up not using them too much, take this as a sign! Skip the hauls and online shopping sprees and opt to buy quality products that are absolute essentials. Trust me, your wallet and skin will thank you.

All eyes on you

Face masks aren’t going away anytime soon, so we might as well beautify the area that everyone gets to see: the eyes! Since many of us will be putting makeup on this area, it’s vital that we keep it hydrated and healthy at all times. 

While they’re not exactly a new trend, night creams, eye creams, and other natural solutions to prevent dark under eyes and puffy bags will be all the rage this year. Stock up on your favorite eye cream pronto because we predict they’re going to be constantly out of stock soon. 

Keep it natural

Even though most people are only going to see us through their phone screens, many beauty gurus still anticipate a resurgence in the natural look. Skip out on the over-contouring or Insta-glam makeup and instead focus on glowy healthy skin, vibrant hair, and a cleaner diet. Plenty of natural and organic products are already available on the market and this time, the spotlight will be on them! 

Anti-maskne

If you’ve never heard of or experienced “mask”-ne before, consider yourself lucky! “Mask”-ne is basically the phenomenon of breaking out due to the constant use of face masks and even face shields, an unfortunate side effect of this protective measure against the coronavirus. 

Ditching the masks is NOT an option (and we mean it!), but thankfully, there are a number of ways to prevent maskne from affecting our everyday lives. Soothing face sprays, calming creams, and blemish balms will be the star of this year’s beauty hauls, focusing on keeping our skin calm and smooth.

What are some of the products I should be using for skin care?

Now that you have a rough idea of what the ideal routine should look like, you’re ready to fill in the gaps with some new products! Here are the 7 skin and beauty products you need in your skincare routine for the year.

L’Oreal Paris White Perfect Night Cream

L’oréal has been a mainstay when it comes to the beauty world, and it’s no surprise they still manage to create some of the most long-lasting and effective beauty products out there. One of the latest trends in the past few years is night creams. If staying up late at night is unavoidable, it’s only fitting that we take the best care of our skin possible. 

The L’Oreal Paris White Perfect Night Cream is a great way to keep our face plump, radiant, and healthy-looking so we wake up feeling fresher than ever, even on tired days! Whether you’re staying up all night to catch up on homework, working a night shift, or watching that K-Drama, you’ll still be able to give your face the care it deserves. With this cream, not even a bad webcam can stop you from looking radiant.

Kose CoenRich Medicated Whitening Hand Cream

In 2020, we’ve had to adjust our lifestyle to accommodate the new normal. This means face masks, face shields, sanitizers, and alcohol. We know you’ve been following health protocols, and because of all that sanitizer, you may have earned some dry spots and skin dehydration, particularly on our hands. Starting now, make it a habit to moisturize them. 

If you’re on the lookout for a good hand cream, the Kose CoenRich Medicated Whitening Hand Cream is a power-packed product that hydrates and brightens our hands, keeping it smooth even after the sixth time you’ve washed it. The brand is little-known, but from the rave reviews to the stellar ingredients list, we love every bit about this product enough to recommend it.

I’m From Rice Mask

The product has star-studded reviews for a reason, and it’s why we’ve decided to include it in our must-have products of the year. I’m From is a relatively new beauty brand originating in Korea that boasts of ethically sourced ingredients from trustworthy farmers, guaranteeing clean and guilt-free products. 

We’ve established the shift to more natural skincare products, and the brand’s philosophy definitely fits the bill. Plus, opting for a wash-on mask instead of the more popular sheet masks is a great way to reduce one’s personal waste! If you have a heart for taking care of our environment, this is a great start to a zero-waste journey. 

The rice mask is designed for those who have a tired complexion. And I don’t know about you, but the past year has tired me out. Restoring your natural radiance, the I’m From Rice Mask uses rice derivatives to remove dead skin cells and clear out clogged pores, giving them a smaller appearance. It’s a perfect way to keep the skin looking fresh amidst all that quarantine stress.

Rohto Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence

I can’t stress the importance of sunscreen enough. Not many of us realize how much damage harmful UV rays actually cause, myself included. I’ve made the mistake of exposing myself to the sun without any form of protection, for months on end. Don’t be like me! 

Start using sunscreen religiously and you’ll see improvements in no time, from brighter skin to fewer wrinkles, dark spots, and more. The Rohto Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence is a product from a famed Japanese beauty brand, and there’s more than enough positive reviews to keep this product in our list of the latest products to buy. It includes SP50+ as well as PA++++, which means it protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

CosRx Pimple Master Patch

A beloved product, the CosRx Pimple Master Patch is a super-affordable way to keep pimples at bay. Simply put a patch over the problem area overnight for instant relief. The product’s intensive healing properties will bring out any bacteria that’s clogging up your pores, making way for clear and blemish-free skin.

Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream

Prone to maskne? The Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream might be just the product to keep the skin feeling luxurious and smooth no matter what. Infused with guaiazulene and centella asiatica, ingredients notable for keeping the skin calm, this night cream can reduce redness and inflammation that may be caused by wearing a mask all day. Just take a small amount and massage it onto the face as the last step in your night skincare routine, and you’ll wake up feeling more relaxed than ever. Great for those with sensitive and acne-prone skin types, this cream might just be your next splurge!

CosRX Centella Blemish Cream

Our final product is a more budget-friendly alternative to the Klairs night cream, the CosRx Centella Blemish Cream. If you’re a fan of Korean beauty and skincare products, you’ll know that CosRX is a powerhouse. The brand is known in the beauty industry for creating essences, toners, and cleansers that are effective as well as super affordable. 

The star of this cream is centella asiatica leaf water, an ingredient that helps relieve skin inflammation and redness. Fans of tea tree oil will be happy to know that this product has that, too. In order to reap its benefits, use the cream after you dab on your acids and other hydrating products.

The latest trends in the beauty industry focus more on natural beauty, so it’s only fitting that we’re looking at improving our skin first! Thanks to beauty gurus, social media, and beauty blogs, we’re able to access a boatload of information pertaining to beauty and skincare. 

With the pandemic, we may not be out and about all the time. But that doesn’t mean we can’t take care of ourselves when at home. With the right products and beauty regimen, you won’t need to use a cute Instagram filter for your next selfie, because you’ll be glowing on your own! 

It seems like every now and then, there’s an ingredient that pops up claiming to be the best treatment for acne or aging skin. One of these products is retinol, and you’ve probably heard of it. It’s hailed by many dermatologists as a “holy grail” treatment against acne. Retinol is also one of the most effective anti-aging products that is available without a prescription.

If you’ve had bad experiences with acne that just won’t go away, or if you’re looking to suspend or prevent any signs of aging and fine lines, then you’ve come to the right place! Here we’ll be discussing what retinol is, its effectiveness, its side effects, and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine regardless of what your skincare problems are. Let’s dive right in, shall we?

What is Retinol?

So, what exactly is retinol? Retinol is a form of retinoid, which is a derivative of vitamin A. Vitamin A is a naturally occurring compound that helps with cell reproduction. As a skincare ingredient, retinoids encourage faster cell turnover, which is the rate at which skin cells die and slough off in order to make room for newer skin.

This makes sense when you think of retinoids as a powerful anti-aging product and acne treatment. They promote the renewal of the skin at rapid rates, remove skin that has been sun-damaged, and help remove dead skin cells and oil so the pores stay unclogged. When it comes to fine lines and wrinkles, it’s best to use retinol to help improve the elasticity and plumpness of your face.

Retinol is usually sold over the counter and in much lower doses than prescription retinoids. Since retinol isn’t exactly a new product (it gained popularity in the US during the ’60s as an acne treatment), there have been a ton of studies showing its positive effects on the skin. It’s actually one of the most science-backed ingredients for skincare. Many of these studies have proven retinol’s potency in keeping skin young, and have even shown retinol to thicken the skin over time.

“Over-the-counter retinols can give you the same results of a prescription – it will just take longer,” says Dr. Marnie Nussbaum, a Manhattan-based dermatologist in Manhattan and an assistant professor at Cornell New York-Presbyterian Hospital.

If you want to prevent wrinkles or just need a treatment for your acne, a retinol treatment might be worth looking into for your skin care system. However, since retinoids can be extra strong, consulting with a dermatologist before starting a strong treatment and incorporating it into your skincare routine is highly recommended. Many people harm their skin further because they don’t know how to use retinol properly, and we want to make sure you don’t repeat the same mistakes.

What Order Should I Apply My Skincare?

Part of an effective and safe skincare routine is the order in which you apply your products. You could be using all the best products for your skin type, but they won’t work if you aren’t applying them in the right order, even if you are certain they’re effective. Your skin is a sensitive creature, and it deserves only the best products. To make sure they’re not going to waste, follow this simple guide to an effective skincare routine:

• Cleanser – Depending on your skin type. You can wash your face with an oil cleanser (great for removing heavy makeup, oils), a gentle foam cleanser (recommended for those with acne-prone skin!), or a cleansing cream (perfect if your skin’s the sensitive type)
• Treatment – This usually comes after the cleanser so as to give your treatment, whether it’s in the form of a serum or an essence, direct contact with your skin. This is usually where retinol comes in, or other active ingredients like acids.
• Moisturizer – Rejuvenates the skin and keeps it extra hydrated, especially since most treatments can be stripping.
• Sunscreen – Prevents sun damage and signs of aging. An often overlooked but essential product especially if you’re using acids that can photosensitize your skin!

Do You Put Retinol On Before or After Moisturizer?

Retinol, like many treatments, acids, and active ingredients, needs to be applied after cleansing and before moisturization. Your face also needs to be dry when applying retinol, as wet skin can make the retinol penetrate deeper and make its effects too strong. Moisturization can help calm down retinol’s side effects and is great for boosting the skin’s moisture barrier.

Retinol, while being a powerhouse of an ingredient, has some pretty uncomfortable side effects. If you’re still starting out on retinol, whether it’s prescription-grade or over-the-counter, there is going to be an adjustment period that you should watch out for.

This period may include side effects like irritation, redness, dry skin, and flakiness. Know that this is completely normal. Your skin and face are just adjusting to the new product! You’re exposing your skin to a lot of new ingredients, but with the correct use and a bit of patience, you’ll be sure to reap retinol’s wonderful effects on your skin.

How to Use Retinol

If you’re wondering how to use retinol, you’ve come to the right place.

Start off small, using only a pea-sized amount once a week. Check your skin’s reaction after two weeks, and if the results are good, you can start to apply it twice a week.

Follow the same procedure. If you see positive results, you can start to apply it thrice a week, and so on. Like with any active ingredient, you may experience redness and irritation, so it’s best to take it slow especially if you have sensitive skin.

The best way to use retinol is by applying your retinol product at night so you’re less exposed to the sun. Using retinol WILL make your skin more sensitive to the sun’s harmful UV rays, so make sure you’re getting that good SPF in the morning if you think you’re going to be exposed to a lot of sun during the day. For dry skin, make sure you’re using a ton of moisturizer at night, too.

If you’re using actives and exfoliants like AHA and BHA, make sure you’re not using both the actives and retinol on the same night! When it comes to mixing actives, you need to be careful.

The active ingredient in the retinol product and the active ingredient in your exfoliant or treatment will not go well together. It’s best to stop using another active if you want to start retinol (especially if you have sensitive skin because retinol makes it even more sensitive to the sun), but if you’re using both and are determined to do so, it’s best to alternate them on different days. Use that vitamin C on Monday, the retinol on Wednesday, and your niacinamide on Friday. Don’t be in a rush to apply everything at once! Your skin is gentle and should be treated with care.

If you’re using retinol in your skincare routine and notice no signs of purging or irritation on your face, then consider yourself lucky. But if your skin does react badly, you can try to lessen your retinol use, opt for a milder dose of retinol, or consult a dermatologist. Retinol is incredibly tricky, and most of its worst side effects are brought about by user error.

Whew, don’t you just feel like you could be a skincare expert after reading all that? It’s my favorite thing. Learning all of the nitty-gritty science-y details and feeling like a legit chemist. Hand me my lab coat now. Of course, this advice can only go so far, because consulting an actual doctor is always better.

So if you’re determined to add retinol or any form of retinoid to your skincare routine, be sure to read up on its side effects! Trust us, it pays off. We know you deserve to get only the best skin, and if you think this product will be what helps you get there, then go for it.

Now that you know how to use retinol the right way, your face will look younger and fresher in no time.

Wondering what your night skincare routine should be? Read our guide here.

Acne is also a condition that isn’t just limited to teenagers going through intense hormonal changes. It can affect anyone regardless of age, skin type, or gender. The truth is, everyone who has lived on this green earth has undergone acne at some point in their lives. Okay, maybe not everyone, but I don’t want to think about people who just never seem to get acne because first of all, how dare they. 

But if you think about it, the silver lining is that acne is such a common problem that so many studies have been dedicated to finding solutions for it over the years. With all that time spent, there’s bound to be a cure for even the most stubborn kinds of acne! So if you’re someone who still hasn’t found the right treatment for their acne or crafted the perfect skincare routine for acne-prone skin, then don’t worry. Here, we’ll give you the basics on how to build and perfect your skincare routine if you have acne-prone skin.

Why Do I Get Acne Even if I Have Dry Skin?

Oily skin and acne are usually linked, since excess oil and sebum is one of the biggest contributors to breakouts. Acne is formed when the skin’s cell turnover rate, or the rate at which dead skin is shed from the face, is slower than usual. People with oily and acne-prone skin find it hard to shed away all that dead skin and oil that is built up.

But anyone can get acne, even if they don’t have oily skin. Normal to dry skin types can experience acne for many reasons. It could be because of a poor skincare routine, skincare products and makeup that are hard to wash off and stay in the skin, or a poor skincare routine that causes irritation.

According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Yoram Harth, working out your skin type is easy. Just wash your face with a mild soap (preferably a baby soap) then gently pat it dry without applying any skincare products. Wait a few hours before taking a good look at your skin. Does it look shiny? Then you have oily skin! Does it look dry, red, or flaky? Then your skin may be dry.

But skin types are complicated, and your face may look shiny on the forehead, nose, and chin, but dry on the cheeks. This is called having combination skin. If there are no visible issues and your skin looks healthy and glowing, then you have normal skin. But again, don’t think your skin type will save you from having acne. “The vast majority of people have had acne once in their lifetimes,” says dermatologist Dr. Viseslav Tonkovic-Capin.

Find Out What Type of Acne You Have

Skincare experts say that one of the simplest ways to split acne is into broad types: noninflammatory and inflammatory.

Noninflammatory

Noninflammatory acne refers to clogged pores that appear as blackheads or whiteheads.

Noninflammatory acne is the mildest form of acne, and it’s not hard to spot. Blackheads are small, dark bumps that appear flat on your skin and are caused by clogged hair follicles. Whiteheads, on the other hand, are small skin-colored bumps.

Both of these forms of acne are created when dead skin cells and oil start to collect on the skin follicle’s opening. These dirt, dead skin cells, and oil will form a bump called a comedo. If the skin over the comedo stays closed, that’s when you’ll see a whitehead. Sometimes the skin over the comedo stays open, and all that buildup mixed with exposure to air and pollutants causes it to look black.

Inflammatory

In this case, anything that is red or looks stronger and is more painful is classified as inflammatory acne, and it ranges from pustules and papules, to more severe and painful acne such as nodules and cysts. If you’re seeing small reddish bumps on your skin, then they’re probably papules, and after a while you’ll see that these bumps contain a pus-like substance. That’s when they turn into pustules.

Another type of acne you might have experienced is the deep kind that feels like it’s underneath your skin. These ones are my personal enemy, as if it wasn’t enough that they hurt like crazy, they’re also gigantic.

The Perfect Skincare Routine for Acne-prone Skin

We can’t recommend a clear-cut skincare routine for everyone with acne, because everyone’s skin is different. Even those with the same skin types might not have the same routine because there are a ton of factors that affect what happens beneath and on the surface of our face.

What we can give is a guide for your routine, and from here, you can experiment, see what works for you and what doesn’t. We give you quick morning routine and night routine tips so your whole day is covered, as well as recommend a few skincare products with specific ingredients that are dermatologist advised and will keep your pores oil-free daily.

Read on to find out our day and night skincare routine guide for acne.

Step 1: Look for a Gentle Cleanser

If you’ve experienced acne and breakouts way before beauty or skincare influencers became popular, you’ve probably based your cleanser purchase off of a commercial you saw on TV. I remember years ago when the most popular products on TV were these alcohol-laden, super strong cleansers (looking at you, Eskinol) that had harsh cleansing formulas. What we’re here to tell you is that any skincare product with too much alcohol is NOT good for you! In fact, those products probably did the opposite of clear your skin or keep it oil-free, and instead kept your pores clogged and damaged. Huge no-no. 

What you should opt for instead is a gentle cleanser that contains mild ingredients and won’t strip your face of its hydration. It might feel great to wash your face and remove all that grease with a strong cleanser because it makes your skin feel clean, but stripping your skin can lead it to produce more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration. This can lead to pimples, breakouts, clogged pores, everything we’re trying to avoid in the first place. 

So stay away from those harsh products and look for a mild face wash instead to cleanse your skin twice daily. Look for a hydrating cleansing formula, as a hydrating cleansing formula will keep you feeling fresh and oil-free.

Our tip: before purchasing a cleanser, look for ingredients like active salicylic acid. This ingredient is your best friend. Salicylic acid is an active acid that will chemically melt away dirt and oil from inside your skin cells, as long as you make sure the cleanser is mildly formulated.

Another ingredient that’s popular is benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide (BP) is hailed as the ‘gold standard’ of acne treatment today. We’ll get more into these ingredients in the next part of this skincare routine for acne.

To clean the face, use only your fingertips or a very, very soft washcloth. Do not scrub your skin aggressively as this won’t make it clear and might even exacerbate your problems. If you use makeup or are exposed to a lot of dirt and pollutants throughout the day, you can double cleanse with a gentle oil cleanser, then a gentle foaming or water-based face wash.

If you have dry and acne-prone skin, you can opt for a cream-based salicylic acid cleanser. It can clear your skin’s clogged pores and clear pimples without removing all the moisture.

Step 2: Find the Right Treatment(s)

Treatments are the part of your skincare routine that goes after the cleanser and specifically target your acne and breakouts. These products are incredibly vital to your routine, and you usually apply them at night. Acne treatments are a critical part of handling acne and breakouts, and they’re usually composed of serums, a toner, solutions, exfoliating products, and masks. These are composed of acne-fighting ingredients like niacinamide, beta hydroxy acids (like salicylic acid), alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, citric acid, lactic acid), vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and many other products that you’ve probably heard of.

These treatments can remove excess oil and sebum that get stuck in your pores. As with every skincare product, the right one will depend on multiple factors, but these products generally have a formula that’s safe to use for most skin types. Treatment isn’t usually used daily, and you can use more than one kind of product for acne treatment as long as you apply them on separate days of the week.

Like we said earlier, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are great and effective acne treatments. A small warning about benzoyl peroxide, though: it’s a wonderful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent, but because of those properties, it also doubles as a powerful oxidizing agent that could harm healthy surrounding skin cells over time. We recommend seeking out this ingredient if nothing else is working, and if you do use it and like it, pair it with an antioxidant serum, an uber-hydrating moisturizer, and sunscreen. 

Another popular treatment product is a niacinamide serum, which is a treatment that’s great for calming inflammation, redness, and reducing acne marks. This also serves as a great hydrating serum for your day and night, and works well for any skin types, including sensitive skin. Just get a few drops to apply on your face in the morning after cleansing and at night after the same step.

Retinol is another well-known ingredient that can be used to treat acne, and it’s a popular product because it’s so effective. This can be found in a toner form. However, this product is a little trickier to use, as the wrong application and frequency of use may lead to irritation and burning. Talk to a dermatologist to find out if retinol is a good option for you and your skin needs.

Step 3. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

If you have oily skin, you might have doubts about using a moisturizer. At first glance, using a moisturizer doesn’t seem to help if you already feel greasy and oily the whole day. That’s a common misconception, especially if you’re using acne medication which can easily dry out the skin. Your skin needs hydration and moisture, and keeping it plump and hydrated makes it less likely to overproduce oil and sebum. In order to avoid dry, flaky skin from your acne treatment, you can use a light oil-free moisturizer twice daily. The right moisturizer won’t leave your skin feeling slick. A light moisturizer will keep your skin feeling fresh all day.

We recommend getting a moisturizing gel or lotion, which are usually lighter than creams. As long as your moisturizer is oil-free and non-comedogenic, you’re good to go.

Step 4. Sun Protection

This step isn’t necessary for your night skin care routine, but if you’re doing your morning routine, then sunscreen is absolutely vital to protect you from sun damage.

Because the ingredients in your acne treatment are usually pretty sensitizing (especially exfoliating acids, retinol, etc.), and make your skin a lot more sensitive to the sun’s negative effects, you’d want to double up on sun protection daily.

The next time you go to your local beauty bar, scrounge around for a broad spectrum SPF 30-50 sunscreen. We recommend getting one that’s at least 50 SPF. Make sure to look for one that’s gentle and also non-comedogenic, and is also specifically made for your face as those tend to be less greasy and fragrance-filled than sunscreens for the body. For acne-prone skin, we recommend getting a broad-spectrum sunscreen in order to help protect your skin from both types of harmful UV light (UVB and UVA).

As we said, there is no clear cut skincare routine for acne, but these four components: gentle cleanser, treatment, moisturizer, and sunscreen, should be the basis of your skincare ritual.

If you can, seek the help of a dermatologist, because this condition is incredibly tricky to try to relieve on your own. At the end of the day, remember that acne is perfectly normal!

I know it’s hard to love your skin on days like this, but know that whatever your skin’s condition is doesn’t make it any less beautiful. Love your skin enough to give it time to heal, and gift it with only the best products (as in, not the products that claim to work overnight). Skincare and beauty is a journey, and we’re with you along the way!

Wondering what your night skincare routine should be? Read our guide here.

If you’ve been lurking on the deep dark skincare web, then you’re no stranger to another product that’s being hailed as the new miracle ingredient to remedy signs of aging, is also helpful for dry skin, oily skin, sensitive skin, normal skin, and many more: hyaluronic acid.

You’ve heard of hyaluronic acid serum, hyaluronic acid moisturizers, etc. But how exactly does hyaluronic acid work? Is this the right product for my skin type and how do I apply it? Is it even safe to use hyaluronic acid? Where does this fit into my skincare routine, and should it go into my nightly skincare routine or morning skincare routine?

That is what we’re here for, to teach you how to use hyaluronic acid, what its benefits are to skincare, and its history in the beauty and skincare world. Basically, everything you need to know about this ultra-hydrating molecule. If you want to learn the basics in just a night and get the most out of your skincare routine, then read on!

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid, in simple terms, is a substance that is naturally found in your skin and body. It has been described as a sponge-like molecule, sitting in between the liquid-y part of your skin cells, absorbing water up to 1000 times its own weight.

As a moisturizer, hyaluronic acid works as a humectant, meaning it’s able to seal in moisture from your surroundings as well as from within your skin. This is why it’s usually paired with moisturizer because the moisturizer allows your skin to get moisture and seal it in. Humectants like hyaluronic acid work well in dry climates where your skin is less likely to draw moisture from outside.

Why Do I Need Hyaluronic Acid?

Okay, so hyaluronic acid is basically a huge sponge that can absorb a ton of water. But what then? Well, keeping your skin moisturized and hydrated makes it look plumper. Plumpness makes you look more youthful, gets rid of fine lines and wrinkles, and lets your face become the best version of itself.

There’s a reason hyaluronic acid started out in the beauty world as a dermal filler to replace collagen. Doctors found that hyaluronic acid was able to hold a lot more water, looked more subtle, and lasted longer than collagen. But back then, hyaluronic acid was too big to be administered topically. We have the scientists who were able to decrease the size of hyaluronic acid molecules to thank because their experiments resulted in a lighter molecule derived from HA: sodium hyaluronate.

Hyaluronic acid is still a pretty big molecule, and its presence in different beauty and skincare products can either be in a high-molecular-weight form or a low-molecular-weight version. The hyaluronic acid that’s high in molecular weight usually is unable to penetrate deeper into the skin, so it sits on top of your face, acting as a surface hydrator and creating a protective barrier.

You can also use heavier hyaluronic acid to help smaller actives penetrate into the skin, which is great news for dry skin types as well as for oily skin types. (It’s a common misconception that only dry skin types need hydration. We all do, regardless of skin type.)

Hyaluronic acid pairs well with a ton of other ingredients and can be found in smaller amounts in beauty and skin care products like cleansers, moisturizers, and even exfoliators. So if you really want to get the most out of this ingredient and up your skincare game, go ahead and hunt for this ingredient! It has a ton of benefits for your skin, and when used multiple times, might be extra beneficial for your skin.

When Do You Apply Hyaluronic Acid?

The most common form of this molecule is in a hyaluronic acid serum. Serums usually come in different packages, be it a night cream, oil, essence, gels, the list goes on. If you want to use a hyaluronic acid serum that’s in the form of essence or oil, just take a few drops and apply it onto your face after cleansing and before moisturizing. 

With hyaluronic acid, you can have a host of anti-aging properties that can seep into your skin, whether you have normal skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, or oily skin. If you have heard of The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 30ml, it’s one of the best-selling hyaluronic acid treatments on the market. It’s super affordable, too!

The Ordinary is known to carry a host of skincare products that are geared towards healthy, basic, and affordable skincare products like niacinamide, so if you haven’t done a haul of The Ordinary products yet, you’ll want to now.

When Should I Apply Hyaluronic Acid?

You use hyaluronic acid in order to draw and retain moisture from both your surroundings and the environment, so you should apply this after cleansing and before heavy oils and creams. It’s paramount that you use hyaluronic acid on damp skin and to apply it evenly, because otherwise you’re actually stripping the inner layers of your skin of moisture.

Do I Put Hyaluronic Acid on Before Moisturizer?

Yes, most skin care experts recommend that you use hyaluronic acid before moisturizing your skin, whether that’s in the morning or at night before you sleep. Hyaluronic acid is usually paired with water in products, so it makes sense that you need to use a moisturizer to seal all that hydration in.

Do You Rub in Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is usually found in serums, oils, or essences, which are applied gently to your face. You can use a soft rubbing motion when applying it to your face without tugging on your skin. Again, just make sure you’re applying it to damp skin!

Start by gently rubbing it in the skin surface once a day, and if you have positive results, apply it twice a day in the morning and at night.

Hyaluronic acid is a product you can easily incorporate into your skincare world, and it’s something that can improve your skincare regimen exponentially. And why stop at HA serums?

You can use hyaluronic acid that’s found in other skincare products too, moisturizers, cleansers, you name it. With the benefits and healthy effects of hyaluronic acid on the skin, you’d be remiss not to use hyaluronic acid and add it to your skincare routine.

Your skin is a living, breathing organism that deserves the utmost care inside and out, and this product just might be the missing ingredient for the perfect skincare regimen.

The search for the perfect night skin care routine, when will it ever end?

Is it just me or have we all asked ourselves “what should my night skin routine be?” while having a pile of skincare products in front of us? I know, we’ve all been there. But you’re in luck! If you’re looking for some tips on how to take good care of your skin, you’ve come to the right page! By the end of this article, we want you to be able to know how to take proper care of your face at night by concocting the perfect nighttime skincare routine for you.

Miss Universe Catriona Gray said to think of the skin as a “living, breathing organism”. And that is true. The skin needs to be taken good care of not only in the morning but also at night. Yes, you may only be going to sleep but that doesn’t mean the skin can’t use some good pampering, right? And also, that pretty face deserves only the best treatment, so get to work!

So, what is it you should look for? What makes the perfect nighttime skin care routine? Being particular about the products you want to apply on your face is very important.

You should start by asking yourself, what does my skin need? Does my skin need more moisture? Does my skin need to reduce oil? I keep hearing about all these miracle products like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, but what exactly do they do, and are they good for my skin?

You want to identify your skin type: whether you have dry skin, oily skin, or a mix of both. Then, you should look for the product that suits your skin and your standards, that would be the best product for you!

The first thing you need to consider in building your skin care routine is determining your skin type. The needs for one skin type may differ from the other. For instance, oily skin types need to be blotted dry often, in contrast to dry skin types that need more moisturizing. One easy way to do so, as dermatologists suggest, is to try and observe your skin throughout the day. Observe how your skin looks in the morning and how it behaves thereafter. Which type do you fall under?

Main Skin Types and their Indicators

1. Dry Skin. You’ll know if one has dry skin if the skin looks and feels rough, has slight to severe flaking, and fine lines. 
2. Oily Skin. You have oily skin if you have shiny and greasy skin due to superfluity from the sebum glands; prominent on the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). 
3. Sensitive Skin. For sensitive-skinned people, redness can be noticed on your skin and your skin often develops rashes.
4. Combination Skin. An oily T-zone area, enlarged pores, dry cheeks, or outer area of the face.

What Should Every Skincare Routine Include?

Now that you’ve determined your skin type, you can proceed to finding which skin care products suit you best, and which ones to avoid. Here are a few products you can apply, day and night, when creating your skincare routine!

Cleanser (Morning and Night)

Let’s not confuse ourselves with cleansers and cleansing oil. Cleansing oil is one of the products to help remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil without disturbing the natural barrier of your skin. One of the few benefits of using cleansing oil is that it leaves your skin silky and smooth. A cleanser removes the oil, dirt, and bacteria that your face absorbs at night while you’re asleep. Our tip? Use a cleansing oil and a water-based cleanser, following the famed double-cleansing method.

Washing your face prevents your face from having breakouts caused by the dirt trapped on your skin. This step gives you that fresh feeling after waking up in the morning and is very essential at night before you sleep. If your skin can breathe better in the morning, wouldn’t you want to start your day that way?

People with oily skin should look for foaming cleansers to help remove the excess sebum and pore-clogging bacteria. If your skin is under this category, you can use the AR Vitamin E Facial Wash in order to control the oiliness in your face. 

How to use it? Simply put an appropriate amount of cleanser onto your palm, lather with water, and massage it all the areas in your face using circular motions. Make sure to rinse thoroughly. 

Toner (Morning and Night)

What does a toner do? A toner removes the “left-over” dirt and other impurities that cleansing alone cannot do or reach. This step in your skin care routine is necessary especially for people with acne-prone skin. Use a cotton pad or simply put a few drops of toner in your palm and gently press it on your face. And, no, you don’t have to rinse it! Let the toner sip in overnight. Be warned, ingredients such as denatured alcohol, ethanol, and isopropyl alcohol may be harmful for your sensitive skin, so make sure to get a product that’s suited to your skin type. You wouldn’t want to undo all the work you’ve put into your skin care routine.

Eye Cream

Is it really necessary to apply eye cream? The skin surrounding our eyes are the most fragile and more prone to dryness. Our eye movements, without us realizing, hasten the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles under our eyes, causing us to look more aged than we are. This is where the eye cream comes in handy to help address some of the aforementioned issues. 

How to properly apply your eye cream: Take a pea-sized amount and put it on your ring finger and apply gently under the eyes. The ring finger is known as the weakest finger among all the others, which is perfect to be used on the particularly delicate area of the face. In applying your eye cream, it is important to avoid unnecessary pressure around the area as it is said to be sensitive.

Serum (Night)

Renée Rouleau, a celebrity esthetician, suggests to use a serum for your skin with the following ingredients: vitamin C and algae extract. Vitamin C isn’t only great for your body, it also has a natural regeneration process which helps in repairing the most damaged skin cells in your body. Vitamin C can be applied topically or as part of a different skin care product.

A vitamin C serum or a hyaluronic acid serum would work the most wonders for anti-aging and skin repair. “The skin is triggered to heal itself by accelerating the production of collagen and elastin,” explains New York City-based and board-certified dermatologist Howard Sobel. It shouldn’t be hard to look for a vitamin C serum as they are infinitely popular, and with good reason!

Moisturizer (Morning and Night)

Your moisturizer is accountable for replenishing the water your skin is losing throughout the day and is vital to any skincare routine, regardless of skin type. A moisturizer with panthenol and hyaluronic acid retains the moisture on your skin and gives a new, radiant glow. The hyaluronic acid ingredient also helps in anti-aging and has anti-wrinkle properties for your skin to stay soft. Did I mention that applying your moisturizer improves skin elasticity and removes the fine lines brought about by having dry skin? Make sure your moisturizer is present in your routine. This step is one you can’t skip if you have any sort of skin problem! 

This step is important for all types of skin, especially for the acne prone skin, since the lack of moisture can be a factor in producing more sebum just to compensate for the lack of it, which can be the reason for breakouts and clogged pores. To apply moisturizer, simply take a generous amount and massage it onto your face. At night, this also helps you and your skin relax before bed.

A night cream is one type of a moisturizer that’s specifically meant to stay on while you’re sleeping. This is a skin care product that works for any type of skin and should be a staple to any night time routine! Using a night cream is pretty easy. To use it, just take a small amount of the product to apply and massage all over the face. This step is another way to help you unwind after a long day.

Getting some relaxation after a long, long day of quarantine stress is super important, which is why I make it a habit to have some time to myself before sleeping. Doing my skin care routine free of distraction is always just what I need to get some quiet time to think about my day. If you’re new to having a skincare routine or don’t yet know how to start your own nightly regimen, we hope this guide has taught you the basics of how to build a routine that you can sustain over time and help you achieve the perfect “I woke up like this” glow!