Building Self-Confidence with Skincare
Everyone has something about themselves that they aren’t entirely happy with. For me, one of my biggest insecurities has always been my skin. According to the National Institute of Health, as many as 1 in 3 Americans struggle with some kind of skin imperfection whether it’s acne, eczema, texture, wrinkles, etc. Your skin is something that is always on display for anyone to see and can be a big factor in your self-esteem. I’ve struggled with acne for years and it’s always been something that lowers my confidence. Because of this, skincare became one of biggest and most favorite hobbies. I tried so many different products as a teacher and it seemed nothing really helped. I listened to the commercials and tried all the brands that everyone was advertising and eventually found out that a lot of those products are actually terrible for your skin.
After high school, I started using Curology (a personalized online skincare provider). Overall I think it did actually help somewhat, but I wasn’t totally satisfied. I began doing more research, watching videos and leaning about different products and ingredients, and grew into using products that not only do I understand its use and benefits, but that personally work for me and my skin type. Since I used to be the same way, I know so many people still struggle with their skin, what sorts of products to use, and really where to start. So I’m going to share with you a basic routine and secrets that can help anyone start their skincare journey and become a little bit more educated.
Step 1) Double Cleansing
Oil Cleansing. That may sound scary, especially if you are someone with an oily skin type. “My skin is already oily, why would I put more oil? Isn’t that what causes breakouts?” Yes and no. Your skin does produce natural oil, and an over-production of that is what causes breakouts. However, an oil cleanser is something that you rub around like a normal cleanser, and then rinse it off. Oil cleansing is actually the only thing that can remove excess sebum (oily substance on your skin), clogged pores, and fully breakdown pollutants, makeup, and sunscreen. You only need to do this once a day at night, anymore too much for the skin and overall not necessary. Rub your oil cleanser around your face for about a minute, wet your hands with a little bit of water, and then rub it some more for another minute, then rinse. Adding water emulsifies the cleanser and further helps to break down irritants.
Image retrieved from Amazon.com
Step 2: Cleansing
You know this one, everybody needs a cleanser. Gel, foaming, exfoliating, hydrating, it doesn’t matter as long as it works for your skin and you do it. Using a normal cleanser helps clean your face and makes sure you wash off all of the oil cleanser from the first step. Here’s some tips to help you choose what cleanser to use.
Using cleansers that contain active ingredients like Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide can help if you struggle with acne
Using cleansers with hydrating ingredients like ceramides or Hyaluronic Acid help lock in moisture and improve dry skin
Cleansers containing Tea tree or Glycolic Acid help prevent clogged pores and improves oily skin
Step 3: Toner
Toners have sparked a decades long debate, should you use one or do you not need one? I’m here to tell you that you do. Not only are toners one of the most versatile skincare products, you can also find one containing pretty much any ingredient you could ever want or need. They can be layered with other toners and skincare products (like I do), or you can pick just one you really like and layer it however much you like. It’s really all about finding one that works for you and helps your skin concerns. Pick a hydrating one, and antioxidant one, an exfoliating one, or any one your heart desires. (just as long as you pick one). Poor a few drops into your hands, rub them together a little, and gently pat or lightly rub the toner into your face, neck, and chest. You could also use a cotton pad if you so desire.
Image retrieved from Pinterest
Step 4: Moisturizer
Last but certainly not least, we have one probably everyone is familiar with, moisturizer. Moisturizing your skin is one of the most important things you can do. You probably use lotion after a shower or hand cream in the winter, so that’s exactly what you should do for your face. A moisturizer helps lock in all the ingredients you just used in your routine and and hydrate your skin, which also helps prevent wrinkles. This is so important especially if you struggle with dry skin and acne, like me, because dry skin leads to excess oil production, which leads to breakouts (and nobody wants that). Lightweight or thick, pick any moisturizer you want and gently apply it to your face at the end of your routine.
and p.s.., DON’T FORGET THE NECK!
Now you have your simplified, 4 step skincare routine and you’re ready to start your journey to great skin and confidence. The more you get into it and learn, the more fun you can have. Throw in some face masks or serums, or even an eye cream! It’s all about doing what your skin needs and what helps you feel beautiful. Here’s a few more tips I’ll leave you with:
Do not mix active and exfoliating ingredients. For example:
Retinols and AHAs, Vitamin C, or Benzoyl Peroxide
Vitamin C and AHAs
multiple products with the same active ingredients
Ingredients you CAN mix:
AHAs and hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide or Retinols
AHAs and BHAs
Vitamin C and SPF
Never rub your products in downward motions, always pull up to prevent wrinkles, especially on the neck.
ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS WEAR SUNSCREEN. Even in the winter, even when it’s cloudy and raining, even if you won’t be outside for a long time. Sunscreen protects your skin from UV damage which creates dark spots, aging, and even cancer.