In our fast-paced world, everyone is so busy with work that sometimes, we get little to no time for ourselves. But, self-care, even in the littlest of ways, is essential. It’s a conscious habit of rewarding and pampering yourself to gain strength and try again for another day.
However, with many skincare products and regimens emerging left and right, it can be hard to know where to start and which products to choose. But don’t worry! We’re here for you!
In this article, we will guide you in creating a skincare routine and, at the same time, give you an insider on choosing natural products that match your skin and lifestyle.
The Basic Elements of a Skincare routine
You don’t have to adopt a 20-step skincare regimen when starting your skincare journey. The core of effective skincare is rooted in these four steps. These are the ones that you need to practice consistently to achieve your desired results:
- Cleansing – Cleansers must always be the first step in the skincare routine as it unclogs pores, removes impurities, and clean dirt.
- Toning – Toners pave the way for all the proceeding products you will use as this will open your pores to deep clean them, refreshes your skin, and lets your skin better absorb all the nutrients of the products you will put in your skin.
- Moisturizing – Moisturizers balance the oil level of your skin, help it retain its youthful look, and soften your skin.
- Applying sunscreen – Sunscreen is a must every single day because UV rays will harm your skin and may cause skin cancer if you are not protected against the sun.
These steps can be done during the day or nighttime, or ideally, both. When dealing with your skin, take your time and do it gently. You can also pause for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step to ensure that your skin absorbs the intended effects of the products.
If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, there are other layers of skincare that you can include in your routine to enhance either the general well-being of your skin or address specific skin issues:
- Serums – these are filled with natural antioxidants that will deal with specific concerns in your skin like wrinkles, dark spots, irritation, and skin sagging.
- Exfoliants – Exfoliating your skin means that you are removing dead skin cells so that it is cleaner, and skincare products can be more effective in your skin.
- Masks – There is a wide range of benefits facial masks can offer, from tightening your skin, deeply cleansing your pores, and boosting the benefits from other skincare products.
How can I create a natural skincare routine?
Naturally derived skincare products made from sustainable practices are a combination of organic ingredients and technology. Before, our ancestors gathered plants and other things in nature to concoct a formula that they would put in their skin for general protection and healing effects.
So, modern scientists adapt them and make them better so that they can be available to everyone. For example, L-ascorbic acid is extracted from citrus and mixed with other natural minerals to produce a facial serum.
Here are some ways to incorporate natural products into your skincare routine—especially when you’re just starting. Take note of these!
1. For cleaning your face
Any skin type can benefit from cleansers with rosewater properties. Rosewater is an organic ingredient that balances the pH levels of our skin and keeps it looking youthful and plump.
However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you can also try to use apple cider vinegar as a natural cleanser. Its antibacterial properties can decongest your pores and cleanse out impurities caused by excess oil and dirt.
For those who have dry skin, you can try honey-based cleansers while those who have sensitive skin can explore natural oil cleansers to prevent irritation.
2. For toning
Witch hazel is a naturally soothing ingredient that reduces inflammation and irritation of the skin. This can be mixed or used along with products containing green tea extracts for maximum effect.
3. For exfoliating
Ample and restful sleep is a cornerstone of healthy, glowing skin. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted slumber each night to allow your skin cells to repair and regenerate. Elevating your heaFace and body scrubs with lemon extracts are made to deeply cleanse your pores, leaving you with a purified feeling. Usually, mainstream exfoliators are harsh on the skin. But there are natural alternatives containing lemon (or sometimes, coffee) that are gentler on the skin and paraben-free!d with an extra pillow can also help prevent fluid retention, reducing the appearance of morning puffiness.
4. For moisturizing
Shea butter, along with aloe vera, and coconut oil are just among the few natural moisturizers that are guaranteed to leave your skin glowing, dewy, and healthy! These are highly recommended natural ingredients, especially for those who have dry skin.
Remember: Always check the ingredients!
Just because some product has the word “natural” in their packaging does not mean that it is all-natural.
So, for starters, here is a list of natural ingredients that are helpful for your skin. Remember: always look for natural and proven by science skincare products to ensure that you’re not just falling into a marketing trap!
- Aloe Vera
- Argan Oil
- Ceramides
- Glycerin
- Jojoba Oil
- L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
- Niacin (or Vitamin B3)
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Shea Butter
- Sunflower Seed Oil
- Turmeric
- Vitamin E
On the other hand, these ingredients—although safe for the skin in limited quantities—may still bring more harm than good in the long run. So, be conscious of the ingredients of your skin essentials!
- Formaldehyde
- Fragrances
- Hydroquinone
- Paraben
- Sodium lauryl sulfate
The Bottomline
Creating a natural skincare routine can be hard at first because aside from effectiveness, you are also juggling other ethical considerations into your decision-making. It’s okay to take your time. Don’t pressure yourself too much—stress can cause breakouts! Just do what feels right—for your skin and the environment we live in.
Can’t find the right product for your skin? Consider getting a Mederm face treatment!
Ask us about our gift card program, special monthly promotions, and referral program. Have a blessed day!