A daily skin care routine can help you maintain overall skin health and help you address specific concerns. Your routine should be sustainable and fit into your current stage of life. Remember, a good skin care routine is not a replacement for an overall health lifestyle. Maintain a balanced and healthy diet, exercise, drink plenty of water, avoid stress and get plenty of sleep. 

Finding products that work for you, and your price point. 

A lot of clients ask for specific brand recommendations, but the truth is there are so many wonderful products currently on the market. Whether you purchase your products from the drugstore, a high-end department store or your dermatologist’s office, it is important to find products that work for you, your unique skin care needs and the different stages of your life. There is no one-size-fits all solution. Make sure you give the product a chance to work and experiment with different combinations. Many brands offer samples so you can try a product before committing to the purchase. 

Daily Routines

Most professionals agree on one thing–you should be varying your morning and nighttime routines. 

Your morning routine should be focused on protecting the skin and your nighttime routine should be focused on repairing the skin. 

Morning

When you wake up, focus on protecting your skin from the sun and pollution. Make sure to cleanse your skin, apply a moisturizer and follow-up with a broadband SPF. For those who include make-up in their routine, you might consider using a primer or foundation with SPF built-in or look for a clear sunscreen meant to be worn with make-up. Find something that works for you. And remember, your routine should include your face, neck, and chest. 

Nighttime

Your nighttime routine should focus on washing away the products and pollutants that have accumulated on your skin during the day. Many swear by a two-step cleanse. The first step might include the use of make-up remover and the second will remove any dirt and oil and prevent congestion of your pores. You can also work an exfoliant into your routine. Your pre-bed ritual should also include serums and products that contain retinoids. For serums, start with an antioxidant like Vitamin C, followed up with a retinoid containing product. Retinoids encourage cell turnover and the production of collagen, so they are important for skin of all ages. If your skin is reactive, try a mild retinoid to start and increase in strength as much as your skin can tolerate. Finally, spot treat as necessary (hydrocolloid patches and salicylic acid are proven acne fighters) and finish with a soothing moisturizer. 

Depending on where you live, the change of seasons may warrant a change in routine and products used. Cold weather can make skin dry while heat and humidity may cause breakouts due to sweat and clogged pores. During colder months, ensure that you are drinking more water, and switch to a thicker more hydrating nighttime cream. You may also want to consider using a humidifier to help prevent dryness to the skin, nose, throat, and lips. In the summer, in addition to a broadband SPF, ensure that you are wearing a hat, sunglasses and other protective clothing. 

When your at-home routine is on point, it makes our job so much easier. The better you take care of your skin between visits to a professional, the more effective professional spa treatments will be. If you are still struggling to find an at-home routine that works for you, make an appointment to come see us at Body ‘N’ Bloom.