The phrase skincare brings to mind a long aisle of beauty products at your local drugstore, skin cancer, and anti-aging miracle cures. But it’s more than a surface-level concern. While a skincare routine may sound like high maintenance, in reality, the steps for healthy skin are can play a significant role in our self-esteem and mental health.

Investing early in the health of your skin, with regular skincare, will not only better protect it from the harsh effects of the natural elements, but also keep you looking and feeling your best throughout the year.  So, what should a good skincare routine entail and what types of products do you really need to keep your skin healthy and clean?

What Belongs in Your Skin Care Cabinet?

  1. Cleanser – Is what you’ll use to wash your face and it’s important to use a product intended for your face – not just whatever bar or body wash you have lying around. Finding the right cleanser for you may be a process of trial and error. It all depends on your skin type.
  2. Toner – Is applied after washing your face and can smooth, soften, and calm skin. Toners often contain ingredients that replenish and restore nutrients to your skin and can diminish redness and dry patches.
  3. Moisturizer – Like cleansers, moisturizers are for everyone and should be used every time you wash your face. And like cleansers, a little trial and error is totally normal when you’re looking for the right one.
  4. Sunscreen – Apply sunscreen every day, even when it’s gray or cold, even when you’re covered up. Keep those future wrinkles at bay and protect yourself from skin cancer.
  5. Exfoliation – Can be used after cleanser but before moisturizer, as it helps to remove flaky skin by increasing skin cell turnover. The benefits are real – removing dead skin and buildup for smoother skin and clearer pores.

For tips on different skincare routines visit Memorial Herman “Skin Care Products for Every Age”.