The world of skincare is vast. So when you decide to set up your routine, it is hard to know where to start. Serums? Toner? Cream? What do you keep and what do you forget? You will see, with a little organization, it is not that complicated. I'm sharing some guidelines to help you build a skincare routine tailored to your skin, from A to Z.
Know your skin type and conditions
When we say "tailored skincare routine", we mean tailored to your skin. So, you need to know your skin. I'm not telling you anything new here; each skin is unique and has its specificities. But to outline broadly, we distinguish four major skin types: normal, dry, oily, and combination skin. To this, we add skin conditions: acne-prone, sensitive, dehydrated, mature, and atopic skin. I detail all of this in this free downloadable ebook.
Now that you've identified your skin type and condition, you can build your 100 % tailored skincare routine.
For problem-free skin: the minimalist routine
If your skin is generally problem-free, a minimalist routine is all you need to keep it healthy. The goal here is to cover the essential basics without overloading your skin with products it doesn't really need.
Cleanser:
Start with a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type. Cleansing is the crucial first step to remove the impurities accumulated during the day (or night) without assaulting your skin. For very dry and/or sensitive skins, cleansing only int he evening is sufficient. In the morning, a little thermal water or toner will prevent damaging the lipid film that your skin has built overnight to protect you.
Moisturizer:
Follow with a moisturizer suited to your skin type. During the day, opt for a lighter formula that will serve as an ideal base under your sunscreen and makeup, if you wear any. At night, choose a richer cream to nourish and repair your skin while you sleep.
Sunscreen:
Finally, never forget to apply sunscreen in the morning. It's your best ally against premature skin aging and damage cause by the UV rays (including pigment spots).
For skin with specific issues: the personalized routine
If your skin has specific problems such as acne [@@@lien vers "Acne"], spots [@@@lien vers "Hyperpigmentations"], rosacea [@@@lien vers "Skin diseases"], signs of aging [@@@lien vers "Wrinkles and fine lines"], or dehydration, it's time to incorporate additional steps and targeted products into your routine.
Toner:
After cleansing, a toner will help rebalance the pH of your skin and prepare it to better absorb subsequent products. There are many types of toners: moisturizing, soothing, exfoliating, purifying, etc. Some are to be used daily, others only one or few times a week (frequency depends on the sensitivity of your skin). You can choose your toner based on your skin issues.
Serums:
Targeted serums are true concentrates of effectiveness. Depending on your needs, you can choose hydrating, anti-aging, soothing, anti-blemish, or brightening serums. Apply them before your moisturizer for optimal absorption. Some are to be used daily (frequency depends on the sensitivity of your skin), others only once or a few times a week. You can select your serum or serums based on your skin problems. I recommend having one to four different serums and rotating them for quick results (for example: a hydrating serum, an anti-spot serum, an exfoliating serum, and a regenerating serum).
Eye contour:
If you have marked dark circles or signs of fatigue around your eyes, a specific treatment for this delicate area can make all the difference. Note: only non-hereditary dark circles and sometimes blue/purple circles can be treated cosmetically. I detail everything in this free downloadable ebook.
Listen to your skin and adjust your routine based on its reactions and specific needs for each season or period of your life. For example, if a product starts to irritate you, it's not necessary to stop altogether, but you can reduce the frequency. Remember also that regularity is the key: a regular routine will allow your skin to fully benefit from each products's benefits.
Ultimately, building a tailored skincare routine is above all a personal and attentive approach. Starting with a minimalist base and gradually integrating targeted products according to your skin's needs, you can create both a simple and effective care ritual. The beauty of your skin lies in the balance and the attentive care you provide day after day. If you need my help to choose your products, we can create your 100 % personalized skincare routine together: you choose your criteria from A to Z.