Do you ever see someone at work or while commuting and just can’t ignore how flawless and perfect their skin looks? The secret behind their clear skin is religiously following a skincare routine. Establishing an effective skincare routine is the first step towards healthy and glowing skin. With so many products and brands available in the market, it can get confusing as to what will and won’t work for your skin. And then there are things like Korean skincare routine steps that seem to give results but are too elaborate.

Did you know there’s more to skincare than just cleansing, toning, and moisturizing? No we don’t intend to confuse you further, in fact, we are going to help you build a skincare routine with steps that will work for every skin type. So are you ready to find out what goes first? Let’s get started.

 

1. Skincare routine steps: Cleansing

Cleansing

Whether it is AM or PM, the first step in any skincare routine is always cleansing. Before you apply any skin care product to your skin it is essential to get rid of every particle of dirt, oil and makeup sitting on your skin. Choose a gentle cleanser formulated for your skin type: a cream-based cleanser works best for dry skin, foaming liquid for oily skin and a paraben-free formula for sensitive skin. Wet your face, take a coin sized product on your palms and gently massage the product on your face using your fingertips at least for a minute, then wash with lukewarm water. 

 

2. Toning

Toning

If you think toners are only for oily skin you are wrong, toners do much more than just close pores and balance the pH level of your skin. Although originally they were formulated using alcohol as one of the ingredients to dry up oily skin and remove leftover dirt, today’s formulas have evolved. The thin liquid adds a boost of hydration to the skin, reduces irritation or redness and removes pore-clogging dead skin cells. Therefore, the second skincare routine step is applying a toner to cleansed skin. Applying a toner using a cotton ball can lead to wastage of products instead take a few drops on cleansed hands and swipe it all across the face. 

 

3. Moisturizing

Moisturising

When it comes to skincare, another common notion is that moisturizers are only for those with dry or sensitive skin, since the only job of a moisturizer is to hydrate and soften the skin. While that is true, these days moisturizers also offer a lot of other benefits such as UV protection, reducing spots and more. However, choosing the right formula is important, simply picking a moisturizer that looks and smells nice isn’t enough. For oily skin look for a gel based moisturizer; for dry and combination skin you can opt for a cream based one, whereas for sensitive skin one without any artificial fragrance works best. Applying a pea-sized amount of moisturizer to your skin can also protect it from environmental aggressors.

 

4. Sunscreen

Sunscreen

Ask any skincare expert, if there’s one thing they will all recommend, then it is applying sunscreen. There’s nothing more damaging for your skin than the harmful rays of the sun. It causes premature ageing, dark spots, sunburns and more. So, no matter what month of the year, always wear sunscreen during the day to keep your skin protected. Apply a coin sized amount of sunscreen on your face and neck 30 minutes before stepping out and reapply every two hours. This is one of the most important skincare routine steps and shouldn’t be missed at all.

 

5. Double cleansing

Double cleansing

Now starts your nighttime skincare routine steps. Again, the first step is obviously cleansing, but we highly recommend double cleansing to ensure your skin is squeaky clean before you go to bed. Start by wiping your face with micellar water and cotton pad, this amazing product takes away every bit of makeup and dirt sitting on your skin. Follow it up with your daily facial cleanser and toner. You can skip the moisturizer since we are using a serum in the next step.

 

6. Serum

Serum

Serums are super-concentrated, filled with active ingredients and designed for specific skin concerns. Mature skin, acne-prone skin, sensitive skin, dullness, no matter what your skin concern, there’s a serum for everything. Just look for one that is formulated for your skin type and concern and apply it every night. Pump a few drops on your fingertips and gently tap it on your skin to ensure it absorbs properly. With regular use your skin will look plump, glowing and healthy.

 

7. Eye cream

Eye cream

We use a lot of products for our facial skin but ignore the eye area completely. Do not forget to add an eye cream to your skincare routine steps if you want to get rid of problems like dark circles, under-eye bags, puffy eyes, etc. Regular application of an eye cream can protect the delicate skin around the eyes and prevent fine lines and collagen loss. During the day, ensure you wear sunglasses to protect the delicate eye area from the harmful rays of the sun. Take a tiny amount on the tip of your ring finger and gently massage the area around your eyes every night before going to bed.

 

8. Spot treatment

Spot treatment

Prescribed medications or other formulas designed for acne or mature skin are also important as they contain active ingredients and offer results quickly. However, we suggest you to consult with your dermatologist to know what is the right time and order to apply spot treatment in your skincare routine. Remember that spot treatments can dry out your skin therefore, apply it only on the affected area.

 

9. Exfoliate twice a week

Exfoliate twice a week

While it is important to get rid of dead skin cells, it should not be done on a regular basis. Frequent exfoliation can damage your skin and cause more harm than good. Be gentle while exfoliating your skin and avoid it if you have active acne. There are different types of exfoliation methods: wash-off scrub, using a mitt or sponge or using a chemical exfoliant such as AHAs or BHAs. Pick one that is gentle on your skin and exfoliate no more than twice a week.