How to Know If Your Skincare Routine Is Working
Skincare is so important and should always be made a priority, but once you have perfected your skincare routine, how do you know if it is working? The dermatologists at the Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute share the perfect skincare routine and what to look for to make sure you are getting the most out of your routine and products.
What to Know About an Effective Skincare Routine
What Your Skincare Routine Should Include
The most important part of a skincare routine in addition to the products you use is consistency. Your skincare routine should be done at least once a day to have the best results. Morning skincare routines typically include a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Nighttime skincare routines include cleanser, toner, eye creams, and moisturizer. Before you begin your routine, determine your skin type so you use the proper products. You will want to know if your skin is dry, oily, or a combination of both.
The first step in the morning and at night is to cleanse your skin. In the morning, you’re cleansing your skin of any oil buildup that may have occurred during the night. At night, you are removing your makeup and any other products you had on throughout the day to allow your face to breathe. The cleanser you use should be gentle and lightweight.
The next step in the morning and at night is to use toner. Toner helps to balance pH levels and moisture in the face. Most contain Vitamin E, which heals the skin and protects it. At night, after you use toner, you will want to apply eye cream. Dab it under the eyes to help reduce puffiness in the morning.
The next step in your morning and night routine is to moisturize. Moisturizing helps to replenish the skin and add in hydration. Cold air and the sun both strip the skin of moisture, leaving your skin flaky and lacking hydration. A moisturizer with hyaluronic acid will have the best results. After this step, your nightly routine is complete.
The last step of your morning routine is applying sunscreen. Sunscreen adds additional hydration to the skin while protecting it from potential sun damage. Use an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it as necessary throughout the day.
How to Know Your Routine Is Working
A good skincare regimen is followed daily. Results are best noticed after 28 days of following your routine because this is how long it takes for new skin cells to form. Around four months after diligently following your routine, you should notice a change in your skin. Your skin will feel smoother, will look and feel hydrated, and you should have a natural, healthy glow. This is an opportunity to reevaluate the products you use. If you don’t think one is working, it should be switched out to see if the results are better. Having a skincare routine can help delay the aging process. Wrinkles and lines will show up later in life, and you will feel more confident.
The dermatologists at the Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute are here to help answer questions about your current skincare routine and how you can maximize the results. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois or the surrounding areas, complete this form and we will be in touch.