It’s common knowledge that establishing and sticking to a consistent skincare regimen is crucial for attaining healthy, radiant skin. Whether you follow a simple cleanse, moisturize, and protect regimen, or a more elaborate six-step process, the key is consistency. If your current routine makes your skin look good, you’re likely to stick with it. But what if your skin has lost its luster and glow or maybe it’s looking a little dull and you don’t know why. Could it be time to change things or reevaluate our skincare habits?
Before embarking on a costly overhaul of your routine, let’s explore some mindful practices and proven tips to inspire your skincare resolutions and help you achieve that radiant complexion you’ve always wanted. Remember, a thoughtful examination of your habits may reveal the adjustments needed to rejuvenate your skin and enhance your overall well-being.
Resolution #1: Take your makeup off before bed
This one is easier said than done. We’ve all had those nights where you get home late, exhausted, and you’re tempted to jump straight into bed skipping your evening routine. Going to sleep with makeup on is detrimental to your skin and should be avoided at all costs. While you sleep, your skin diligently repairs itself. Leaving makeup on overnight can clog pores, leading to breakouts and dull skin. Make it a habit to remove all makeup before bed using a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. Double cleansing can also ensure thorough removal of makeup and impurities, leaving your skin clean and refreshed.
NB: wiping your makeup off using wet wipes or makeup remover wipes does not count as cleansing.
Resolution #2: Wear SPF daily
Do you take sun safety into account each time you venture outdoors? your skin is vulnerable to sun-induced DNA damage all year round, this means that you need to apply a broad-spectrum sun protection product every single day, even on overcast and rainy days. Protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation is crucial for maintaining its health and youthfulness.
Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day. This helps prevent sunburn, premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer.
Resolution #3: Repair your moisture barrier
Your skin’s moisture barrier helps to hold on to all the goodness in your skin and protect against daily aggressors. A compromised moisture barrier can result in dryness, sensitivity, and inflammation. Incorporate products rich in hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and fatty acids to repair and strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier. Opt for a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in moisture and restore balance to your skin.
Another easy way to repair your moisture barrier is by drinking more water. Turns out that there are perks to staying hydrated and minding your own business. The greater your water intake, the more hydrated and plump your skin will appear. Additionally, since water aids in flushing out toxins, you’ll also enjoy a clearer complexion with fewer breakouts.
Resolution #4: Know your skincare ingredients
If you want to get results from your regimen, start thinking about skincare like medicine. It’s not just about buying the latest skincare products. You need to know what skincare ingredients work for your skin, be consistent with your full routine, know when your skincare products expire and most importantly learn how to store your skincare products properly.
While some skincare products are designed to be stored in a cool, dry place. Other products such as vitamin C AKA pure ascorbic acid are meant to be refrigerated. A 2021 study revealed that water-based vitamin C retains both its stability and potency when refrigerated, this is where a miniature skincare fridge like the Luxe beauty & cosmetics fridge comes in handy.
Understanding the ingredients in your skincare products empowers you to make informed choices that suit your skin’s needs. Look for active ingredients such as retinol for anti-aging, niacinamide for brightening, and salicylic acid for acne-prone skin. Conduct thorough research or consult a dermatologist/skin care specialist to determine the best ingredients for your skin concerns. If you are in Nairobi, you can pop into Bandari Beauty at the Greenhouse Mall for a thorough skin consultation and advice on the best products to use based on your skin type.
Resolution #5: Add an eye cream to your routine
If you are 25 years old and above, an eye cream should be part of your skincare regimen. The skin around your eyes is delicate and thinner than the rest of your face, so it’s best to use a moisturizer specifically for this area. This delicate area is also prone to dryness, fine lines, and dark circles, it’s therefore important to Incorporate an eye cream into your skincare routine to hydrate, firm, and brighten this area.
Choose one that is formulated with ingredients like peptides, vitamin C, and caffeine to address specific concerns and improve the overall appearance of your eyes. Make 2024 the year you level up your skincare regimen with an eye cream.
Resolution #6: Remember your beauty sleep
Quality sleep is essential for skin repair and regeneration. This is true for your epidermis as much as it is for your brain or muscles. Aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to allow your skin to rejuvenate and heal. There’s some research and science behind the concept of beauty rest.
During sleep, your skin’s blood flow increases, and the organ rebuilds its collagen and repairs damage from UV exposure, reducing wrinkles and age spots.
Resolution #7: Exfoliate regularly
Exfoliation often gets a bad rap but when done right, it can transform your skin. Exfoliation helps to slough off dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and promotes cell turnover, resulting in smoother, brighter skin. Incorporate exfoliating products into your skincare routine at least 1-2 times per week, depending on your skin type and sensitivity. Choose gentle chemical exfoliants such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to avoid irritation and achieve optimal results.
By implementing these seven skincare resolutions into your daily routine, you can achieve healthier, more radiant skin. Remember to be patient and consistent with your skincare regimen, as it may take time to see noticeable improvements. Prioritize self-care and listen to your skin’s needs to maintain a glowing complexion for years to come.