Skincare is something that we all make the effort to prioritize, but sometimes getting it all the way right could be a bit difficult. Sometimes we just can’t figure out the best products for our skin, we lack consistency, or we’re simply not using enough product – and we just don’t know. So here are ten skincare rules to live by that will help you get your skincare routine a step closer to perfection. 

1. Consistency is Key + Give Your Products a Chance to Work

It’s important to remember that the only way you’ll see results from the products you’re using is to be consistent. You want to create a morning and evening routine for your products. It’s recommended that in the morning you use your skincare in this order: cleanser, toner, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, then sunscreen. For the evening: makeup remover, cleanser, toner, serum, acne spot treatment (if needed), eye cream, moisturizer, then facial oil. 

Also, remember to give your products enough time to actually show results. There’s a myth that skin stops responding to certain products and this is completely untrue. Allow two months of using your products consistently to begin seeing results. 

2. Correctly Determine Your Skin Type

In order to pick the right products for your skin, you first need to correctly determine your skin type. Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser, and gently pat it dry. After 30 minutes, look back at your skin. If your skin appears shiny, then you have oily skin. If your skin feels tight or flaky, then you have dry skin. If you only have oil in your T-Zone then you have combination skin. If your skin feels hydrated, then you have normal skin. You can also use blotting sheets after waiting thirty minutes, and from the amount of oil that’s accumulated on the sheet, you’ll be able to assess what type of skin you have.

3. Find the Right Cleanser

Because cleansing is typically the first step of our skin routine, you want to make sure you’re using one with the best formula for your skin type. If your cleanser leaves your skin feeling dry and stripped, you’ll want to make sure you replace that with a more gentle cleanser that won’t overly strip your skin of moisture if you’re skin is already dry to begin with; or won’t force your skin to produce more oil if your skin is oily to begin with. It’s recommended that those with oily skin, try using an oil cleanser. The use of oil gives the skin the impression that it has produced enough oil, and keeps it from overproducing more.

4. Adjust Your Skincare to the Season

We’re currently in the winter season so many of us may be suffering from dry, flaky skin. It’s common for some of us to think that this means our skin needs to be exfoliated… don’t do it! This actually means that your skin is crying out for more moisture. Consider using a night cream or moisturizer that has a rich formula like Cetaphil’s Rich Night Cream, or opt in for facial oils.  

5. Try Adding Facial Oils to Your Routine

Facial oils are great to incorporate into your skincare routine, no matter the season. Not only are they rich in replenishing moisture, but it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll find the perfect facial oil to target any skin concern that you have. They’re formulated with potent, natural ingredients that will deliver proven results with consistent use. Great facial oils to consider incorporating into your routine are Vitamin C Oil for hyperpigmentation and even skin tone, Rosehip Oil for moisture, and Tea Tree Oil for acne. 

6. Try Adding Retinoids, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid to Your Routine

Retinol is a powerful “game-changer” for skin. It stimulates collagen production, firms and smoothes the skin, minimizes the appearance of wrinkles, and speeds up the normal exfoliation process. Niacinamide is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that also minimizes the signs of aging and calms irritated skin. And hyaluronic acid deposits moisture and improves the skin’s barrier. Be sure to consider these powerful ingredients to make your skincare routine even more effective.

7. Be Super Sensitive with Sensitive Skin

Many people may not even realize that they have sensitive skin, and end up using products or practicing routines that actually irritate the skin more than help it. Remember that if you notice any redness, bumps or irritation on your skin, it’s important to be attentive to it and try to identify the products or practices that may be causing it. Research is currently being conducted that’s actually concluded that rosacea, a common skincare condition, is often overlooked or misdiagnosed in our community. 

8. Make sure you use enough product

Dermatologist Dr. Sam Bunting of Dr. Sam’s Skincare created the 13 Dot Technique “to ensure that you’re evenly dosing your skincare.” Applying 13 dots of any product over your face ensures that you’re using enough, and not missing vital areas of your skin including the nose region.

9. SPF 

Sunscreen is so vital for healthy skin care on both your face and body. You want to ensure that you’re using SPF 50 broad spectrum that is formulated against UVB and UVA rays; both which contribute to the effect of aging and hyperpigmentation. It’s also recommended that the use of Vitamin C and D will also combat the sun’s harmful rays. 

10. Drink water

Water consumption is important because it maintains your body and skin’s hydration from the inside out. Those who remember to drink an abundance of water have skin that better maintains its elasticity, and are less likely to suffer from scarring, wrinkles and other signs of aging. Drinking enough water also properly cleanses the body of any toxins and wastes, reduces sebum production, and can even combat skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema.