When you are young, there is no need to think about a skincare routine. It is when the acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and other skin conditions that surface makes you realize the importance of it. Even those with genetically blessed flawless complexion still have to work at achieving healthier-looking skin. Every person is different, so finding and sticking to a routine that works best for you can be a little tricky. With every change in season and age, your skincare routine will probably need to change too. Let us break it out between morning and evening routine.

Morning Routine

The morning skincare regimen is mainly to protect and preserve the skin. Throughout the day, your face is exposed to pollutants, sun, and other harsh elements that will damage your skin. The following steps and products will lead you in the right direction to healthier-looking skin. Depending on your skin condition, it may not be necessary to incorporate every recommendation.

1. Cleanser - The first thing to do in the morning is to use a cleanser to remove any residue or impurities that may have built up overnight. This will give you a fresh start for the following products to preserve and protect the skin.
2. Toner - This process helps removes any excess dirt or oil left after cleansing. It traps in moisture, shrinks pore, balances pH levels, and prevents excess oil production. This step is debatable because some feel that it is essential, and some do not.
3. Serum - For specific skin conditions that need special attention such as acne, aging, or hyperpigmentation, serums are a perfect solution to tackle those problem areas.
4. Moisturizer - It is vital to keep skin hydrated even if you have oily skin. It will protect your skin from drying throughout the day. Choose the appropriate moisturizer for your skin type. For dryer skin, use something creamy and rich. For oilier complexions, a lightweight moisturizer is ideal.
5. Eye Cream - The eye area is the most sensitive and delicate part of the face. Use a product that is specifically formulated for that area to address concerns such as dark under-eye circles, puffiness, wrinkles, or dryness.
6. Sunscreen - Last but not the least important is to protect the skin. Sun exposure is the most damaging to the skin, causing wrinkles, dark spots, cancer, and other concerns. Use a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 to protect yourself from harmful UVA/UVB rays.

Nighttime Routine

The skin uses downtime at night to repair and regenerate from all the elements it was exposed to during the day. A good nighttime skincare routine aids in that process.

1. Makeup Remover - A cleanser usually isn’t good enough to remove stubborn makeup. Using a makeup remover allows you to remove impurities without scrubbing or being harsh on the skin.
2. Cleanser - This step washes away pollutants, toxins, and dirt that have accumulated on your face throughout the day so that the skin is better able to absorb subsequent treatment products.
3. Toner - As mentioned in the morning routine, this process helps removes any excess dirt or oil left after cleansing. It traps in moisture, shrinks pore, balances pH levels, and prevents excess oil production. I think toners are a personal preference depending on your skin type.
4. Treatment - If you have concerns that need to be addressed, select a product that is appropriate to combat those problem areas. In addition to the specific treatment, choose a product that is more focused on hydration and regeneration for your nighttime routine.
5. Night Cream - Use a product with hydrating and repairing properties. Nighttime is when the skin can regenerate, so applying a cream that boosts that process is a bonus.
6. Mask (Optional) - A mask is usually time-consuming, so using one can be a special treat once or twice a week. If you have dryer skin, consider using a hydration mask, or if it’s on the oilier side, a clay mask will be the perfect solution.

Skincare can be one of those time consuming, daunting tasks. But in my opinion, it’s better to prevent rather than to correct skin issues. It may take a little trial and error, but it will pay off in the end.