Skincare is essential. Not only can it improve your skin’s appearance, but it’s healthy for you too. Your skin is the first line of defense in maintaining your immune system. This also means it is first in line to protect you from all the bacteria and viruses you encounter every day.
Your skin helps you regulate your body temperature through the sweat glands and even manufactures Vitamin D. For this reason and so many more, taking care of your skin should be a priority. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to skincare. The best products for you will be determined by your skin type, genetics, and individual needs.
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Skin Care for Everyone
Although individual needs differ, everyone can benefit from the following care products:
- A cleanser
- A gentle, occasional exfoliator
- Moisturiser
- Sunscreen
It is best to wash your face twice a day. Washing your face in the morning will cleanse your face of any oil or impurities that occurred overnight, like rheum. Rheum is the technical term for “eye boogers” typically found in the corners of people’s eyes after sleeping. It is a buildup of mucus that protects the eyes from dirt and other irritants.
Eye boogers are a normal sign of healthy eyes. However, it is vital to wash them away in the morning to avoid irritation or further accumulation of mucus. Your eyes constantly produce small amounts of mucus, but it does not build up during the day due to blinking. At night, our eyelids are sealed shut, allowing the mucus to accumulate. Conversely, washing your face at night rids your skin of all its daily accumulations.
Normal Skin Type
Normal skin is the most low maintenance of all skin types. It is typically not overly sensitive and has a healthy, radiant complexion. To support normal skin, you need only to gently cleanse it and follow up with a moisturiser when it’s thirsty.
Combination Skin Type
Combination skin is trademarked by its fluctuation between normal and problematic. Those who struggle with only certain sections of their face, like the T-Zone, have combination skin. This type of skin often comes with more open, visible pores, shininess, or blackheads. A lightweight moisturiser that hydrates without increasing oil is best for this skin type. Additionally, occasional pore strips may help keep blackheads at bay and minimize pores.
Dry Skin
People who have dry skin usually have tiny pores and dull or rough complexions. In extreme cases, dry skin may be accompanied by irritation, redness, and decreased elasticity. A hydrating cleanser and moisturizer is the best option for those with dry skin. Avoid using hot water, as it can be more drying.
Oily Skin Types
Oily skin causes visibly enlarged pores and a shiny complexion. Pimples, blackheads, and other blemishes are common in this type of skin. To combat the buildup of oil and acne-causing impurities, consider using an anti-acne face wash. These cleansers can be drying, so following up with a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser is essential.
Sensitive Skin Types
Sensitive skin can be challenging to care for. Depending on your skin’s triggers, it may cause redness, itchiness, dryness, or general irritation. For this type of skin, it can be beneficial to seek specially formulated products made for sensitive skin types. Sticking to natural and organic ingredients may help you avoid unnecessary chemicals that can cause breakouts.
No matter what type of skin you have, taking the time to care for it is always worth it. One universal skincare product that anyone can benefit from is sunscreen. Applying sunscreen daily is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin from harsh rays and nourish its barrier. As a bonus, it can mitigate the signs of aging.
