The ABCs of a Skincare Routine

A good skincare routine is a set of habits that help maintain or improve skin health while addressing the specific needs of each skin type. It varies depending on expectations, preferences, and skin type, but generally relies on key steps, including cleansing, moisturizing, and protection.

Here are the key steps to an effective skincare routine:

Cleansing (morning and evening)
Cleansing is essential to remove dirt, excess oil, pollution, and makeup. It also prepares the skin to better absorb the following treatments. In the morning, use a gentle cleanser to rid the skin of nighttime impurities. In the evening, use a cleansing milk or cream that also removes makeup. After cleansing, a toner can be used to rebalance the skin’s pH and prepare it for serums and creams.

Exfoliation (1 to 2 times per week)
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, even out the complexion, and improve skin texture. It also enhances the absorption of subsequent products. There are mechanical exfoliants, like scrubs with grains or microbeads, and chemical exfoliants with AHAs (glycolic acid, fruit acids) that gently remove dead skin cells without rubbing.

Serum
Serums are more concentrated in active ingredients and are designed to target specific skin concerns, such as hydration, anti-aging, radiance, acne, etc. They are lighter and penetrate deeper than creams, allowing their actives to work more effectively.

Day Cream
A day cream hydrates and protects the skin throughout the day. It should be chosen according to your skin type (dry, combination, oily, sensitive) and your specific needs.

Night Cream
Night creams are richer and more nourishing, allowing the skin to regenerate while you sleep. They can include repairing and anti-aging ingredients like peptides or nourishing oils.

Mask (1 to 2 times per week)
Masks provide intensive treatments that target specific needs (hydration, radiance, detoxification, etc.). Used occasionally, they give the skin a boost.

Sun Protection (daily)
Applying sunscreen is the foundation of any good skincare routine. It protects the skin from UV rays, which are responsible for premature aging and skin cancer risks.

Targeted Treatments (little extras that feel good)

• Eye contour care: Eye creams are formulated to treat specific issues like dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines in the delicate eye area.
• Specific treatments (acne, hyperpigmentation): To address specific concerns such as acne or dark spots, use targeted treatments with ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or alpha-arbutin.

The key to success in all this is consistency. Be regular and consistent with your routine and you will see results.