Step 1: Cleanser
One to the most important steps! Double cleansing is a must, you may want to use one cleanser or two different cleansers – opt for a cleanser, which dissolves all makeup without stripping your skin. If your using a foaming cleanser you can then follow up with a gentler, more creamy cleanser (especially if you have acne-prone skin).
Step 2: Exfoliator
I guess you thought I would say toner here! Toners are essentially just priming your face for ingredients to be better absorbed later on. Look for a toner filled with either BHA (beta hydroxy acid, like salicylic acid) or AHA (alpha hydroxy acid, like glycolic acid or lactic acid), which work to unclog pores, prevent breakouts, and dissolve blackheads over time – these ‘actives’ are essentially exfoliating your skin.
Step 3: Target
Serums are essentially just shots of extremely concentrated nutrients, hydrators, and antioxidants that really accelerate your skin health as soon as you apply them. Start with face serums like a Vitamin C, which will protect your skin from the inflammation and damage caused by free radicals during the day while also brightening skin and lightening dark spots over time. Opt for a serum filled with hyaluronic acid, which pulls water from the air into your skin to plump it up.
Use an eye cream – these tend to be lighter and thinner than face moisturisers, so make sure to apply them before you apply heavier moisturisers.
“The rule of thumb when applying skincare is to apply the lightest first and the heaviest last, since thinner products can’t penetrate thicker products.”
Step 4: Moisturise
You need to be using a moisturiser. Always. No matter what. It’s the only thing that’ll keep your skin barrier healthy. A moisturiser not only infuses your skin with hydration but also helps trap in all the products underneath it to make the ingredients even more effective
Step 5: Protect
Sunscreen isn’t trying to penetrate anything—it’s there to protect your face and act as armour against the outside world. The absolute bare minimum SPF you need on your face is SPF 30 |
