3-Step Skincare Routine
Skincare is an essential part of any self-care routine, and there are a few key products that helped me maintain healthy skin. After different phases in my life, I have finally scaled down my morning and night skincare routine to three simple steps: facial wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen (morning) or retinol (evening).
Step 1: Facial wash. A good facial wash help remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the surface of your skin, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed. There are many different types of facial wash available, so it's important to choose one that's suited to your skin type. For example, I generally have (very) oily skin (a little less in winter due to a dry and less humid environment), which is why I tend to use a gel-based or foam facial wash, while those with dry skin might prefer a creamier, more moisturizing formula.
Step 2: Moisturizer. Moisturizer is an essential step in any skincare routine, as it helps to hydrate and nourish the skin, especially after having cleaned everything out with the facial wash. It can also help to protect the skin from environmental damage, and can even improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For my oily skin for most of the year, I prefer a lightweight, oil-free formula, while during winter months when I have drier skin, I might choose a thicker, more emollient moisturizer. I tend to skip moisturizer during the day when I’m in humid areas like the Philippines.
Step 3 (morning): Sunscreen. Sunscreen is an absolute must for anyone looking to protect their skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Sun exposure can lead to a variety of skin problems, including sunburn, premature ageing, and skin cancer. It's important to use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy or overcast days. I try to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin (generally in the face and neck areas, plus arms and legs during summer). Ideally, I try to reapply every two hours (usually during midday) or immediately after swimming or sweating but I’m unfortunately usually caught up with my tasks during the day to remember to reapply. One layer of protection is better than absolutely no layer of protection.
Step 3 (evening): Retinol. During the evening, I substitute sunscreen for retinol. Additionally, Retinol becomes step 2 and moisturizer becomes step 3. This is another important skincare ingredient that can be beneficial for a variety of skin concerns. Retinol is a form of vitamin A, and it can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as uneven skin tone and texture. It can also help to reduce the appearance of acne and other blemishes. Retinol can be found in a variety of skincare products, including serums, creams, and even facial cleansers. It's important to use retinol as directed, as it can be irritating to some people when used in high concentrations or too frequently.
Occasionally, I include these additional steps in particular situations:
On days when I wear make-up: Oil-based makeup removers are a popular choice for removing makeup, as they are effective at dissolving even waterproof and long-lasting formulas. They work by breaking down the oils in makeup, allowing it to be easily wiped away. I place a pea-sized amount on my palms and gently spread it around my face. I include some light massages for some calming and soothing effect. One advantage of oil-based makeup removers is that they are typically very gentle on the skin and are suitable for all skin types. However, it's essential to be thorough when rinsing your face after using an oil-based remover, as any residual oil can leave your skin feeling greasy. Once thoroughly rinsed, I follow it up with a facial wash (see step 1).
During acne-free days (and when budget permits): Serums are a type of skincare product that is typically lightweight and easily absorbed into the skin. They are usually formulated with a higher concentration of active ingredients than other skincare products, such as moisturizers or facial creams, and are designed to target specific skin concerns.
There are many different types of serums available, each formulated with different ingredients to address a wide range of skin concerns. For example, some serums contain antioxidants to help protect the skin from environmental damage, while others are formulated with ingredients to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. On days when I have no acne to treat, I typically go for a serum that helps even out my dark spots.
Serums are typically applied after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizing. I prefer applying it during my morning routine.
On self-pampering days: Face masks can be a great addition to any skincare routine, helping to provide a variety of benefits depending on the type of mask and the ingredients it is formulated with. There are many different types of face masks available, each formulated with different ingredients to address specific skin concerns.
Some common types of face masks include:
Clay masks: These masks are typically formulated with kaolin or bentonite clay, and are designed to absorb excess oil and draw out impurities from the pores. They are often used to help improve the appearance of acne-prone skin.
Hydrating masks: These masks are formulated with ingredients to help moisturize and hydrate the skin, such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin. They are often used to help improve the appearance of dry or dehydrated skin.
Brightening masks: These masks are formulated with ingredients that can help improve the appearance of uneven skin tone or dullness, such as vitamin C or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).
Since I moved to France, I rarely incorporate them into my routine because they can be costly. According to some dermatologists, they are also unnecessary. But when I feel the need (usually want) to add them to my steps, I usually finish my evening skincare routine with a hydrating mask on days when I’m acne-free or a clay mask on days when I am just recovering from acne. I use brightening masks when my skin feels dull. These are usually on days when I am recovering from too much stress or busier periods of the year.
I have arrived at this simple three-step skincare after going through different phases in life, being exposed to different conditions and situations and trying several different products. At this point in my life (in my early thirties as of writing), incorporating facial wash, moisturizer, retinol, and sunscreen into my skincare routine help achieve healthy skin. This goes without saying that healthy skin is also a reflection of our state of mind and what we put inside our bodies.
I am able to formulate these habits thanks to:
regular consultations with my dermatologist and general practician,
Doctorly (dermatologists) for product recommendations and
PickUpLimes (dietician) for tips on healthy lifestyle and nourishment.