“Over-washing without the appropriate use of a moisturizer will actually trigger an over-production of oil on your skin,” Shokeen explains. Though everyone has different skin — and therefore different skin issues, concerns, goals, etc. — there are certain skin-routine rules that generally apply across the board. These are otherwise known as the basics, and we consulted a slew of dermatologists to confirm exactly what they are and share skin-care tips that apply to all of us, novices and experts alike. If you’re unsure about how to put together a skin-care routine (no judgment here), or you’re looking to brush up on the basics, here is your expert-backed beginner’s guide to skin care. We found this lip formulation to be outstanding, not just for the attractive lip pigment but because it keeps our lips impressively soft and hydrated (which is not an easy feat these last few months). The peptide-rich lip balm is infused with squalene oil and hyaluronic acid which aids in keeping the lips soft as silk.
If you have dry skin, for example, you might want to try a moisturizer that’s extra hydrating, and if you have oily skin, you may find that you don’t always need to use a moisturizer. If you’ve tried a few skin care products and aren’t getting the results you want, talk to a dermatologist, Dr. Amin said. You’ll get advice on which types of products and ingredients can improve your skin based on your individual needs and which ones are “more hype than actual real benefits,” he said. They should be applied after facial serums and gels, but before your creams and lotions. Spread a dime-size amount between your palms and pat it on, targeting the outer areas of the face, and then sweeping in toward the center, around your eyes, nose and lips. For people with sensitive skin, this lightweight serum can be worked into your current skin care routine to help hydrate, or as a way to treat irritation or redness. This versatile moisturizer from La Roche-Posay is formulated to do more than hydrate sensitive skin.
Tamarind seed extract promotes hydration for softer skin and a smoother complexion. Persian silk tree extract helps to offset the process of glycation, helping to reduce skin damage. Wu-zhu-yu extract helps calm thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Developing a Personalized Skincare Routine
Proprietary ingredients can be pricier because they are rarer, but that doesn’t mean they are more effective. Rather, pay attention to the concentration of ingredients in skin care products, as it’s possible a pricier product has a higher concentration of the “good” ingredients, rather than the drugstore version.
Some even call this a “holy grail” because it makes their skin feel more supple, calmer, and less prone to breakouts. There are three main types of exfoliation, each with different functions that work best for different skin types, concerns and needs. Smooth on a nickel-sized dollop of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher face sunscreen as the last step in your morning skincare routine, including on your neck and the backs of your hands, 30 minutes before you head outside.
Reviewers praise this product for being a powerful all-over exfoliant and effective spot treatment. “The skin-care market has really boomed in the last few years,” explains Sejal Shah, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
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It’s an ideal ingredient for dry or sensitive skin, as it helps relieve itching and minor irritation caused by eczema and rashes. Rounding out the ingredients list is glycerin, a humectant (it attracts water); squalene, which is derived from olive oil; dimethicone (a silicone) and eucalyptus leaf oil. Night creams, on the other hand, focus on repairing any damage you might have picked up with ingredients like retinol to speed cellular turnover and counteract dark spots. These creams also replenish moisture levels, which naturally dip in the evening, with emollients that often create a rich, thick texture. If you want to start using seaweed in your skin care routine, there are a lot of ways to get started. “There are so many ways to incorporate seaweed into your routine based on your individual needs. She continues, “We always say that our seaweed-based products provide ‘results you can sea’ because the unique benefits speak for themselves after regular use.
Sunscreen
When you’re looking for anti-aging properties or investing in medical-grade skincare products, the ingredients list will naturally get a bit longer. Instead, call in for backup—either from a dermatologist or technology—to help determine if the product is a good choice for you. Daily moisturizing keeps your skin from drying out and can reduce the appearance of fine lines, Dr. Farris said.
Mild exfoliating BHAs and AHAs are balanced by ceramides and niacinamide to soothe and hydrate the skin. You should also forgo any face cleanser that makes your skin feel tight or itchy, as both are signs of a disturbed skin barrier, said Dr. Bowe. They’re often celebrated for “addressing wrinkles or evening skin tone,” but impressive results can come with undesirable consequences, Mr. Robinson said. Unless you have a background in Latin or a degree in chemistry, a skincare ingredients check can feel like reading a foreign language.
She suggested formulas containing ingredients known to support the skin barrier, like squalane, jojoba and sunflower seed oils, and ceramides. Especially after applying a topical treatment that may contribute to your skin’s dryness, moisturizer comes next in a nighttime skin routine. Again, the best moisturizer option for you will depend on your skin type, and you can generally use the same moisturizer morning and night, should you wish—no night cream necessary. You can use the same cleanser morning and night to wash your face of dirt and excess oil.
