I want to give you guys some skincare tips that I swear by and that you can incorporate into your skincare routine no matter what your routine is.
- Sunscreen. I’m sunscreen obsessed, but you should be too. Not only will it help prevent fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and melasma, it’s also going to prevent skin cancer. Sunscreen is always the right choice.
There are 2 different types: chemical and physical. The physical ones usually contain zinc oxide, which can give you that chalky, white look. For this reason, a lot of people like to use chemical. There is the concern that chemical sunscreens can have carcinogens. You have to put chemical sunscreen on at least 10-15 minutes before going out in the sun, whereas when you put physical sunscreen on, you’re good to go. I like both, but I tend to stick with physical because the brand Elta MD is amazing.
Sunscreen is always the last step after your entire skincare routine, but then we apply makeup. If you put makeup on right over, sometimes you’re blocking the effects of the sunscreen. My tip for you is to finish your entire skincare routine, finish it with sunscreen, wait 10-15 minutes, and then apply your makeup.
Another tip is to use a setting spray that has spf- Goop has a really great one.
- Serums. Serums are a smaller molecular size, meaning they can penetrate into your skin a lot deeper than a cream, lotion or ointment. When using active ingredients, I think everyone should be using a serum- some of the basic ones are a Hyaluronic acid, a vitamin C or any kind of antioxidant serum.
Sometimes we layer numerous serums on. When applying serums, there’s an order in which to apply them to get the most benefit out of each ingredient. Always apply thinnest to thickest: (1) water-based, (2) oil-based, (3) gel-based and (4) cream-based. Not that you have to use all four, but this should be the general order.
Serums are expensive, but for a reason- they work really well and will last you a long time.
- Exfoliants. There are 2 different kinds of exfoliators: physical and chemical. You’re probably used to seeing the physical exfoliators (physical = texture). These get the outer layer of dead skin cells off your face. You don’t have to scrub really hard or have your face look red and irritated after to know it’s working. Use it LIGHTLY 1-2 times a week.
Chemical exfoliants include glycolics, alpha hydroxy acid, beta hydroxy acid, etc. You won’t feel it, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not strong …in fact, a chemical exfoliant is much more effective than a physical exfoliant because it’s actually going into your skin. You should avoid using both a physical and chemical exfoliant at the same time.
- Effortless Skincare. Whenever there’s something you can throw on or do that will help your skin, and it’s effortless, do it. All these little moments in between really give your skin that little extra boost and love.
One of my favorite things is a sleep mask. SkinCeuticals makes an amazing B-5 gel mask, and it’s clear …sometimes I’ve worn this on airplanes, which is so genius because the air is so dry, and your skin looks amazing after you rinse it off.
I know sheet masks are a big thing right now. Sulwhasoo makes an amazing creamy mask that feels incredible on your skin, and it’s so secure that you can run around, do your hair, and it’s not going anywhere.
Those are my 4 skincare tips! Let me know what you think.
