Extensive skincare routines are currently-on trend, with celebrities and influencers demonstrating routines that consist of 20 steps and take longer than 30 minutes to complete. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with personal pamper time, the truth is, many of us simply don’t have the time or energy for it. The good news? You only really need four main things to achieve a healthy skin!
Keeping your skin clean is incredibly important, as a build-up of dirt can often be the reason for spots and blackheads (clogged up pores). While it’s particularly important to remove makeup, you should cleanse your face regularly, even on the no makeup days. Now, the key thing is to get a good quality cleanser that is gentle on your skin - it should remove any oil and dirt without stripping your natural oils. Ideally, use a deep cleanser, like gel or foam, instead of wipes, as it does a better job of getting deep in those pores.
Next, get a face cream for everyday use, suitable to your skin type. There are various different types of face creams you can get: moisturiser, face serum, night cream, anti-ageing cream, etc. Each of them have different active ingredients, depending on what you’re looking to achieve (simply moisturise or tighten the skin and reduce fine lines). Regardless of the type, most face creams are used primarily for hydrating your skin, enriched with hyaluronic acid and various vitamins. Opt for options that avoid harsh chemicals, like parabens and sulphates, or strong fragrances, if they tend to irritate you.
Sun damage is, unfortunately, the fastest route to wrinkles and pigmentation marks. Beyond the look of your skin, it also increases the likelihood of skin cancer. Therefore, if you want to maintain a healthy and youthful skin, always wear sunscreen. Some face creams or make up products are two-in-one, meaning they already have SPF in them. However, make sure that the amount of SPF in your products is sufficient (ideally SPF30 or SPF50). If that’s not the case, buy a dedicated sunscreen and apply it under your makeup. Don’t forget the rest of your body: chest, shoulders, hands, and legs are areas that are generally the most exposed to the sun.
Finally, the biggest favour you can do to your skin is looking after your own wellbeing. There are various super simple habits to introduce into your daily life, but the effects on your skin can be enormous. For example, drinking enough water each day to stay hydrated is something that a lot of people simply forget to do. But, hydrating yourself from within is just as important as externally. Similarly, a good diet goes a long way - make sure you eat enough nutrients and minerals. Try to get enough sleep each night, too, as it’s the exact time your skin regenerates.
Sometimes in life, less is more, and that’s certainly not wrong when it comes to skincare. If you enjoy using many different products and having a multistep routine, then, by all means, keep doing what makes you happy! But, if you want to keep it as minimal as possible, the above four things are all you’ll ever need.