The Skincare Ritual
A skincare routine is a RITUAL. It's this time you've set aside just for you, even if it's only a few minutes out of your busy day. You need this time for selfcare, to take in a deep breath and disconnect. Your focus isn't only on "just" washing your face and calling it a night. This daily ritual is about celebrating you. It's admiring your beauty as you look in the mirror. It's about looking at yourself closely in the mirror noticing each line, wrinkle, dark spot, pore size, blemish and the list of imperfections as we would call them, and now taking the time to treat, heal, prevent and protect your skin. This skincare ritual time is about self-love and the time to take care of you!
The most important thing about a skincare ritual is consistency. Be consistent!
Start with finding products that work for your skin type. Schedule a facial with a licensed esthetician who will recommend products that work with your skin type, condition and skin goals. No two skincare rituals are the same. Don't be afraid or feel guilty about making an investment in your skin. Once you have invested in a quality skincare line, you will hesitate to go back to what you previously used.
I have used many different skincare lines from department stores, drug stores, professional skincare lines, to MLM brands. I always find that one favorite product within the different brands that works well for my skin condition. I came across a toner, many years ago, which contains 2% salicylic acid that I continue to use now in my early 50's. And I use it because it works for me. You may not find everything your skin needs in one skincare line, and that's ok.
I've listed some product basics in the paragraph below. A starting point to creating your Skincare Ritual.
A great skincare ritual should start with a gentle cleanser that will remove dirt and oil from the skin without being too harsh. After cleansing, use a facial toner to help balance the skin's pH levels and remove any remaining impurities. Next, use a moisturizer to help keep your skin hydrated and nourished. After moisturizing, remember to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Finally, to help address signs of aging like wrinkles and dull skin, consider adding a retinol and vitamin C serum to your skincare routine. Retinol can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and help skin appear brighter, while vitamin C can help protect the skin from oxidative damage.
Some products are only to be used at night, while sunscreen is a must daily. Once you become comfortable and consistent with your daily ritual, incorporating a twice weekly facial scrub will help exfoliate your skin. Weekly facial masks are very beneficial for hydrating skin and addressing some skin conditions. You'll also find specialty serums that will help address skin conditions like hyperpigmentation, melasma, acne, and aging skin.
Remember, setting time and boundaries for self-care isn't selfish, it's self-LOVE!