If you frequently find yourself dealing with pimples, blackheads, excess sebum, and breakouts, you may be desperate for the proper skincare routine that can pave the way to clearer skin. With thousands of skincare gurus and claims of miracle products crowding the internet, it can take time to decipher between what is good for your skin and what is just a good-looking brand deal.
We are here to demystify the steps to clear skin. We have compiled a list of six steps you can count on to empower your skincare journey, as well as some best practices that can improve your skin.
How Can I Achieve Clear Skin?
Skincare fundamentals like washing your face seem simple enough. Still, when these basic steps are overlooked, no amount of fancy products, pricey facials, or extensive treatments can compensate for missing out on these foundational benefits. The following list sheds light on the basic building blocks of healthy skin.
1. Wash Your Face Twice a Day
Whether you have normal, dry, or oily skin — or a combination of all three skin types — general recommendations suggest you wash your face at least twice a day. Cleansing your face in both your morning and evening routines gives your skin may increase your chances at the coveted “glass skin” look while also keeping your skin feeling soft and smooth. In addition, adequate cleansing can help keep your face free from excess dirt, oil, and product buildup, all of which can clog pores and contribute to breakouts and uneven texture.
Aim to cleanse your face for 30 to 60 seconds for optimal results, and opt for a gentle, non-abrasive facial cleanser. Additionally, using lukewarm water instead of hot water is vital, as this can help prevent skin irritation — especially if you have sensitive skin.
2. Use a Good Serum
Following up cleansing with a high-quality serum to deliver targeted active ingredients into your skin throughout the day and while you sleep. Look for serums that address your specific skin concerns — for example, if you’d like to protect skin from oxidative stress and tighten your skin, we would suggest Super Antioxidant Booster Serum. This potent serum contains ingredients such as:
- Green tea extract, a nourishing and soothing antioxidant
- Japanese artemisia capillaries, which helps combat blue light oxidation
- Carnosine and edelweiss extract to aid in skin tightening and contouring
- Blueberry, wolfberry, and cranberry to support skin detoxification
- IonPlex®, which includes concentrated ions and glacial water to deeply hydrate skin and increase the effectiveness of microcurrent treatment
We suggest pairing this booster serum with microcurrent device treatment. Microcurrent is a safe, highly-effective treatment that can be performed at home. Microcurrent devices mimic the natural ionic flow of your body and is clinically tested to address a myriad of skin concerns safely.
Although microcurrent acts virtually, making it just about sensationless, if you are new to this method of treatment, we advise you to start with the NuFACE® Mini or MINI+, as these devices are beginner friendly yet pack the punch of a 5-Minute Facial-Lift® by almost instantly smoothing out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, these devices are beneficial to skincare enthusiasts that need an on-the-go approach!
3. Use a Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer
Overly dry skin might try to self-moisturize by producing excess oil, which may break your face out. Non-comedogenic moisturizers and non-comedogenic skincare products are excellent choices for keeping your skin hydrated without clogging your pores. Even if you are dealing with oily skin, proper moisturization is critical for maintaining a balance of hydration and natural oils for glowing skin.
4. Exfoliate
There are two different forms of exfoliation: mechanical or chemical, and the form of exfoliation that your skin needs can depend on your skin type.
Both methods can help remove dead skin cells that can clog your pores and give your skin a dull appearance and an uneven texture. However, how often you exfoliate and what method you should employ depends on your skin type and the specific needs you need to be addressed.
Your reaction to the exfoliation process should determine the frequency you exfoliate, but generally, exfoliating two to three times a week is sufficient. Over-exfoliating could do more harm than good, so make sure to incorporate exfoliation slowly but surely while you monitor how your skin reacts. After each exfoliation, make sure to follow up with your favorite moisturizer.
5. Wear Sunscreen Daily
Sunscreen is a skincare essentia to protectyour skin from uv rays. Whether you use a traditional chemical sunscreen or mineral sunscreen, your face needs daily protection from the sun’s damaging UV rays.
Sun exposure can darken the appearance of blemishes you may be working tirelessly to diminish, making treatments focused on decreasing hyperpigmentation a nonstarter. Sunscreen also aids in retaining the youthful, supple quality of your skin. Aging is inevitable, but sunscreen can help prevent the sun from accelerating this process.
6. Stay Hydrated
A healthy water intake is one of the most famously touted methods for healthy skin. Drinking water is essential for your overall health, and the skin is no different. The skin’s outermost layer, called the epidermis, can feel rough and lose elasticity if it lacks moisture.
That said, ensuring you get enough H2O daily can help support your overall wellness and skin health.
What Are Some Tips for Makeup Wearers?
If you wear makeup, taking proper care of your skin is essential. Here are a few critical tips for makeup wearers seeking clearer skin.
Double Cleansing
Not properly cleaning your face after wearing makeup can clog your pores and prompt breakouts and other facial impurities. Consider double-cleansing after wearing makeup.
Starting with an oil-based cleanser is especially helpful for removing most waterproof makeup or sunscreen products. Finishing with a water-based cleanser will ensure you do away with the sweat and dirt your face might have accumulated throughout the day.
Wash Your Makeup Brushes Regularly
Keeping your makeup brushes clean can improve your overall efforts for healthy skin. Product buildup on your brushes can trap bacteria, oil, and dirt in the bristles, which might cause you to break out after makeup application.
Conclusion
It can be easy to overcomplicate your skincare routine, but committing to a consistent and minimal skincare regimen may be all it takes to get clear skin. From choosing the right ingredients to cleansing correctly and staying hydrated, addressing your skin concerns might not be as challenging as it seems — and when in doubt, it is always best to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.
Sources:
Double Cleansing Method Explained: Should You Try It? | Cleveland Clinic
Dietary water affects human skin hydration and biomechanics | PMC
