There’s no doubt that genetics plays an important part in how a person looks but our daily habits and skincare rituals also have a significant impact. There are certain factors like age, environmental pollutants, hormonal fluctuations, unhealthy diet, and improper skin care which can make you prone to various skin problems. The fact is that you need a diligent skincare routine and the right products to maintain a healthy and glowing skin. However, with a myriad of skin care products emerging every other day and varying opinions about those products, it can be challenging to decide what’s best for your specific skin type and concerns. The best approach to taking care of your skin is to know what works for you.

Taking Care of Your Skin

There are four basic steps in every skincare regimen for keeping your skin healthy and preventing annoying skin problems from occurring in the first place. These steps are:

• Cleansing
• Toning
• Moisturizing
• Sun Protection

Every skincare is aimed at improving your skin’s tone and texture to keep it in its optimal shape and treat any problematic areas. Let’s have a look at how these four steps help your skin.

1. Cleansing

Cleansing your skin is one of the most integral parts of any skincare routine. The journey to clear and radiant skin starts with a cleansed face. Our skin goes through a lot on a daily basis and comes in contact with dirt, oil, environmental aggressors, microbes, dead skin cells and other potentially harmful agents. If not removed properly, these contaminants can accumulate in your pores and lead to bigger skin concerns. Therefore, it’s essential to gently cleanse your face every day and night to sweep away all these impurities. It’s important to avoid using harsh chemical-based cleansers and exfoliators that can strip your skin of its natural oils, aggravating and drying it out. In addition, look for cleansing products that are mild and noncomedogenic because anything that clogs your pores can lead to blackheads and acne breakouts.

2. Toning

Many people often dismiss toner as overkill while some think of it as a stinging astringent from the 80s that can leave their skin dry and irritated. However, the old alcohol-rich formula has now been replaced with skin-replenishing and hydrating formula. Toning has become a pretty crucial skin care step to get well-balanced and deeply hydrated skin. It doesn’t only remove residue of oil, dirt, and makeup after cleansing, but also preps the skin to let the nutrients from other products absorb better. Make sure to scan the ingredients so you only get a gentle, non-abrasive toner free from alcohol and artificial fragrance. Some of the ingredients to look for are Alpha or Beta Hydroxy Acids, Hyaluronic Acid, Rosewater, Green Tea, Vitamin E and vitamin C.

3. Moisturizing

Adding a nourishing and soothing moisturizer to your daily skincare routine is vitally important to prevent dryness, dullness, and premature signs of aging. Moisturizers build a barrier on the outer layers of the skin that prevents water loss and keeps the skin soft and deeply hydrated. As we age, our skin loses its ability to restore moisture and becomes drier. Moisturizers balance the natural oils in the skin and maintain the structure of skin cells to keep the skin looking youthful for longer. Moisturizers come in many forms, such as lotions, creams, and gels. You can choose a moisturizer according to your skin type and condition. You can take your hydration game up a notch by adding a repairing night cream and an eye cream to your skincare routine.

4. Sun Protection

Sun protection is probably the most reiterated and significant step in any skincare routine. Sun damage is known to cause severe skin damage, pesky signs of aging, sunspots, and even certain types of cancers. No matter your age, skin type or gender, it’s crucial to apply and reapply a broad spectrum sunscreen religiously (SPF 30 or above) throughout the day. For a sunscreen to work at its best, apply it 30 minutes before stepping outside. There are two main types of sunscreens; physical and chemical. They come in gel, cream, and lotion form to cater people with all types of skin.