How to Start a Skincare Regimen
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How to Start a Skincare Regimen 

Taking care of your skin may look easy at first, but it can entail a lengthy process of trial and error until you find a skincare regimen that works for you. For some, it can also be a bit tricky, since there are multiple steps involved, after all.

If you’re not sure where and how to start, then this handy guide is for you. We’ve laid out the most essential steps in starting a skincare regimen!

Step 1: Know Your Skin Type

Before anything else, it’s important to know what skin type you have. If you’re unsure what it is, know that there are five basic skin types, as described below:

  • Normal – This means that the skin is well-balanced. It’s neither too dry nor too oily.
  • Oily – This is characterised by having bright and shiny skin, caused by excess sebum.
  • Dry – External factors like weather and temperature can cause skin to crack, peel, or flake. 
  • Combination – This is characterised by having a combination of both oily and dry skin. 
  • Sensitive – Fragile or sensitive skin may trigger redness, itching, or irritation when exposed to external factors. 

A simple way of identifying your skin type is by simply observing how your skin behaves from morning to night. Before washing your face at the end of the day, take a good look at yourself in the mirror and see if it has any of the characteristics above.

If you’re still unsure, you can consult with a skin specialist, ideally a dermatologist. Expect that a dermatologist will conduct various tests that will determine your skin type.

Seeing a dermatologist from the start will also allow you to establish a skincare routine faster. They can recommend the right products that will suit your skin type, so you don’t have to worry about finding the right ones.

Step 2: Research Skincare Ingredients

Knowing your skin type allows you to look for products that work best for you. It’s important to pay attention to ingredients because not all of them may be suitable for all skin types.

For example, while retinol can improve fine lines and wrinkles, it can also leave a burning sensation on your skin, which is a no-no for those with sensitive skin, especially. 

Depending on the products you use, some ingredients may also work against each other. For instance, mixing retinol with vitamin C can be bad news for those with sensitive skin, which can increase the risk of irritations.

Step 3: Set a Skincare Routine (and stick to it!)

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to establish a complicated skincare routine from the start. All you need to do is to find a gentle facial cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen

You can integrate other products like facial serums, toners, face masks, and eye creams later on once you manage to find a basic skincare routine that works for you.

You must also set a schedule to apply your skincare routine. Ideally, it’s best to apply it in this order: cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen. 

Be sure to apply cleanser and moisturiser twice a day— in the morning before applying make-up, then in the evening before going to bed. Only apply sunscreen once in the morning before leaving your house. 

Depending on your skin type, the frequency of applying your skincare routine may also vary. Ultimately, it will depend on how sensitive your skin is, so don’t hesitate to stop using a certain product that has adverse effects. 

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