A Rookie’s Guide to a skin care routine

We all have things we are good at and things that we need someone’s help out. Just like in taking care of our skin.

There are people who are so particular about their skin. They have counters filled with skincare products that target a gazillion skin issues. They often go to their estheticians and have a solid skincare game.

Then, there are the average Joe’s (and Jane’s) who washes their face with a bar of soap. (Which is a no-no!) Please, don’t use harsh bar soaps for washing your facial skin!

Most people might have already developed a rocking skincare routine. But there are those who might still be groping in the dark in search of help. Well, good news, this one’s for you.

Skincare routines need not be complicated so don’t get overwhelmed. You need to know the basics and learn to listen to your skin. Having a solid skincare routine doesn’t have to carve hours from your time. A simple 5-minute routine is usually enough.

A good skincare routine should cover a good facial cleanser; an exfoliator; a serum fit for your skin’s needs; an effective moisturizer; and basic sun protection.

So read on and learn these very easy guide to a skincare routine designed for rookies:

Facial cleansers don’t have to promise you the sun and moon!

You read that right. Ditch the products that tell you it gives you the best skin by infusing it with an extract of a tropical plant that you haven’t heard of before. Facial cleansers are meant to cleanse your face and you most likely do it in a minute or less. After rubbing and massaging it on your face, you rinse it with water. Boom!!! The flowery extract that they sell you is down the drain.

Stick to products with the simplest formulation fit for your skin. If you are acne-prone or have oily skin, go for foaming cleansers that are gel or water-based. For dry skin, opt for creamier facial cleansers. Go for products that aren’t too drying for your skin and does a good job in removing grime or makeup residue.

Scrub and exfoliate but not daily!

Exfoliation is a great way to keep skin in tip-top shape. It is a must especially for people who have problems with texture and clogged pores. Exfoliation also helps give you a wrinkle-less feel that makes you crave for more scrubbing!

We love the fact that we can scrub and make our skin squeaky clean. A treat for people with OCD, really. We have to scrub and scrub and get those dead skin off until we feel a bit sore. We over-exfoliate or use products that are doing the same thing, so we end up having an extra sensitive skin.

So, what’s the safe frequency for exfoliating? Our on-staff esthetician, Ashley Bell, says “If you have dry skin, exfoliating 1-2 times per week should be enough. You don’t want to overdo it as it can make your skin extra dry than it already is.”

“For people who have oily skin, exfoliating two to three times per week should help keep pores free from excess sebum. It is a good way to keep pores free from gunk that might develop into acne later on. You have to space out your exfoliation to give your skin time to heal. Remember, DON’T OVER-EXFOLIATE GIRLFRIENDS!”

Serums are your skin’s best friend!

Most people might skip this step but we are telling you, you are missing out! Serums are packed with potent ingredients meant to target your skin problems. Think of serums as superfood for your skin. You can choose a serum fit for your skin’s needs.

Serums enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E are good for people with dry skin. These ingredients are meant to retain moisture, improve skin’s elasticity and help fight off premature aging. If you are acne-prone, go for serums packed with Vitamin C to help boost skin’s repair process and help increase production of collagen. You may also like investing in tea tree oil serums for its anti-acne properties.

Lightweight serums are meant to be applied before moisturizers as these have smaller particles that are easily absorbed by the skin. Serums with thicker formulations are best applied over moisturizers to help lock in moisture. Check out Trophy Skin’s lightweight Argan Serum. It is infused with argan stem cells that help reverse the signs of aging. It also contains hyaluronic acid that helps plump the skin and increases hydration. The serum also contains green tea extract, which is helpful in preventing dull skin and is a great antioxidant.

Quench the thirst of your skin with moisturizers!

If serums are considered food for the skin, moisturizers are water for the skin. It is a good practice to apply moisturizers daily, no matter what your skin type is. Yes, that is true. Even those with oily skin need to moisturize. Sometimes, the skin tends to oil up when it is dehydrated.

That’s because your brain is thinking your skin needs hydration that is why it works to release oil or sebum to compensate for the dryness. The result? A glistening skin due to excess sebum. We recommend applying moisturizers daily to balance your skin and keep it well hydrated. For oily skin, choose a lightweight moisturizer that is water-based or gel-based.

Choose formulations that do not clog the pores so that it won’t contribute to acne formation. For dry skin, go for creamier textures or go for moisturizers specially formulated for dry skin. These may be a bit heavier to help nourish parched skin.

The sun will come out, not just tomorrow but every day!

You might know by now that the sun is the number one cause of premature aging. The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun cause damage to the skin that can either cause it to burn or discolor. Yes, you need the sun to convert Vitamin D for your body but too much exposure can contribute to that line on your forehead or those wrinkles around your eyes, not to mention some age spots and some form of skin cancer.

There is no exemption. Sun protection must be used on a daily basis. Not just on your face, but also on areas that are exposed to the sun. If you notice some age spots that are getting more prominent especially on your left hand, that my dear, is a sign of sun damage already. You can wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses but your best bet is a good-quality sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to 30.

These Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures how well a product protects the skin from UVB rays (the ones that cause sunburns and cancer formations). Higher SPF’s do not exactly mean that it can block UV rays better than the SPF 15 and 30’s so you can stick to the regular sunscreens. You may also go for broad-spectrum sunscreens so you can also have protection from UVA rays. There are many products available on the market. You just have to find the one that works best for your skin.

You can add more skincare steps if you want

What we’ve shared so far is very basic and a good way to start taking better care of your skin. Now, as you transition from being a rookie to a skincare superstar, you may want to add more to your processes. You can try the 10-step Korean Skincare (but honestly, that is too EXTRA!!!).

We recommend experimenting with sheet masks or clay masks. Again, these will have to depend on what your skin needs. For hydration, go for the sheet masks with extra serums and moisturizing ingredients. For acne-prone or oily skin, mud masks or clay masks are your best option.

You can even venture into light therapy that targets specific skin issues. Blue light therapy works well with acne-prone skin.

Red light therapy, on the other hand, helps reverse sun damage and is a great way to have a lit-from-within glow. Red light therapy is a popular anti-aging fix without surgery.

Again, developing a skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated. You just need to be mindful of what your skin needs. If you are acne-prone, you don’t have to use products that have raving reviews but are formulated for dry skin (guess what, it’s too heavy for your skin you will break out!). And if you have dry skin, don’t be too obsessed with scrubbing your skin. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Your skin will thank you!

Additional tips for your skin care routine

Customize Based on Your Skin Type and Concerns

Understanding your skin type is crucial for maintaining a healthy skincare routine. Whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin, your approach should be tailored to meet your specific skin needs. For example, those with dry skin should opt for richer, cream-based products that help lock in moisture, while oily skin types benefit from gel-based, lightweight products that won’t clog pores. If you’re dealing with specific skin concerns, like acne or hyperpigmentation, incorporating treatments that target those issues is essential. Customizing your routine ensures you address your skin's needs without overloading it with unnecessary products.

Consistency is Key: Morning and Evening Routine

To keep your skin looking its best, consistency is key. Implement a routine that works both morning and night, ensuring that you’re caring for your skin throughout the day. In the morning, focus on protecting your skin by applying a good SPF along with hydrating products that keep your skin barrier intact. At night, your skin naturally sheds dead skin cells, so it's essential to apply treatments that will aid in repair and rejuvenation while you sleep. This dual approach helps your skin stay balanced and healthy, addressing different needs at different times of the day.

Don’t Skip the Exfoliation

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath. It also encourages healthy skin cell turnover, preventing dullness and clogged pores. However, over-exfoliating can strip your skin of its natural oils, which protect the skin barrier. Depending on your skin type, you should exfoliate one to three times a week. Sensitive skin types may need to be more cautious, while those with oily or combination skin might find regular exfoliation helps prevent acne. Choose an exfoliant that works well with your specific skin concerns, whether it’s a physical scrub or a gentle chemical exfoliant with alpha or beta hydroxy acids.

Hydration is Essential for Every Skin Type

Keeping your skin hydrated is a crucial step in any skincare routine, no matter your skin type. Even oily skin types need hydration to balance oil production. Dehydrated skin can lead to overproduction of oil, contributing to clogged pores and acne. Opt for a lightweight, water-based moisturizer for oily or combination skin, and a richer, more emollient cream if your skin tends to be dry or dehydrated. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid help retain moisture and plump the skin, giving it a smoother texture and preventing dryness.

Pay Attention to the Skin Around Your Eyes

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, so it requires special care. Using a targeted eye cream can help address issues like dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines. Look for products containing peptides, hyaluronic acid, or caffeine to improve the appearance of the skin around your eyes without irritating it. Incorporating an eye cream as a specific step in your skincare routine ensures that this sensitive area gets the attention it needs.

Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

Sun protection is one of the most critical steps in maintaining healthy skin and preventing premature aging. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Sunscreen should be the last step in your morning routine to protect your skin from sun damage throughout the day. Regular application will help prevent the formation of wrinkles, age spots, and even certain types of skin cancer. Remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially if you’re outdoors.

Incorporate Face Masks for Extra Nourishment

Face masks can provide an added boost to your skincare routine. Whether it’s a hydrating sheet mask or a clay mask for oily skin, these treatments can be used to target specific skin concerns. Incorporating a mask once or twice a week can help address issues like dryness, acne, or dull skin, leaving your complexion refreshed and revitalized. For an extra nourishing experience, choose masks with ingredients that penetrate the skin deeply and work to improve overall skin texture.

Layer Your Products Correctly

The order in which you apply skincare products matters. Start with the lightest products, like serums, which contain potent ingredients designed to penetrate the skin deeply. Follow with heavier products like moisturizers, which lock in hydration and create a protective barrier. This layering ensures that each step in your routine is as effective as possible, delivering active ingredients to your skin without interference.

Adapt Your Routine as Needed

Your skin changes over time, whether due to seasonal shifts, stress, or age. What worked for you during the summer may not be suitable during the colder months, when your skin might require more hydration. Regularly assess your skin's condition and adjust your routine accordingly. By staying attuned to your skin’s needs, you can adapt your skincare products and steps to ensure you’re providing the best care possible at all times.

Avoid Harsh Ingredients That Can Irritate Your Skin

It’s important to be mindful of the ingredients in your skincare products. Certain ingredients, like alcohol or strong fragrances, can irritate your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin types. Instead, look for soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, or oat extracts that help calm and protect the skin. Always do a patch test before introducing new products to your routine to minimize the risk of skin irritation.

Key Takeaways:

• Customize your routine based on your skin type and specific skin concerns.
• Maintain a consistent morning and evening routine.
• Exfoliate regularly but avoid overdoing it.
• Hydrate your skin, regardless of your skin type.
• Use sunscreen daily to protect against UV damage.
• Incorporate face masks to address particular skin issues.
• Layer your products correctly for maximum effectiveness.
• Adapt your skincare routine as needed, depending on changing skin conditions.
• Avoid harsh ingredients that may irritate your skin.

These additional steps will help ensure that your skincare routine is not only effective but also tailored to your unique needs, helping you achieve the healthy, radiant skin you’ve always wanted.