We all desire flawless, glowing skin, but navigating through the constant influx of new skincare products and overwhelming advice online can be challenging.
While we're familiar with the basics—staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and washing our faces—there's so much more to discover. The good news is that achieving flawless skin doesn't require spending a fortune on magical procedures or expensive creams.
To help you on your skincare journey, we've gathered insights from dermatologists and top beauty experts. From selecting the right cleanser for your skin type to the importance of cleaning your makeup brushes, these practical tips, combined with recommendations from the esteemed Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab, will guide you toward radiant skin.
- Choose the appropriate cleanser for your skin type. Dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban advises, "For oily or acne-prone skin, opt for a salicylic gel or benzoyl peroxide wash." For dry, mature skin, she recommends using a moisturizing glycolic or milky cleanser. If you have brown spots or melasma, consider a brightening wash with alpha hydroxy acid.
- Avoid excessive product usage. Layering multiple skincare products simultaneously can be harsh on the skin, leading to breakouts and clogged pores, according to Dr. Julia Tzu, a dermatologist based in NYC.
- Moisturize day and night. Dermatologist Dr. Janet Prystowsky emphasizes the importance of moisturizing after showering and before bedtime. Choose a fragrance-free moisturizer suitable for daily use to avoid any irritation.
- Refrain from touching your face. Dr. Tzu highlights the significance of avoiding touching your face as it spreads bacteria, causes breakouts, and may lead to scarring, wrinkles, or viral infections.
- Hydrate internally and externally. All skincare experts emphasize the importance of hydration. Dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara says, "A lack of water results in dullness and sagging." Opt for hydrating products, including cleansers, moisturizers, and anti-aging solutions. Additionally, drink around eight glasses of water daily.
- Minimize direct heat exposure. Beware of not only the sun but also heaters and fireplaces, as they can cause inflammation and collagen breakdown. Maintain a distance of at least ten feet from these heat sources, advises dermatologist Dr. Debbie Palmer.
- Exfoliate a few times per week. Dr. Gohara recommends exfoliating to remove dead skin cells that can make the skin appear dull. Choose a pH-neutral exfoliator that doesn't excessively dry the skin. Remember to exfoliate not just your face but also your body.
- Topical antioxidants are beneficial. In addition to a balanced diet, applying topical antioxidants can nourish the skin and help repair sun damage. Dermatologist Dr. Palmer suggests applying them immediately after cleansing or layering them under sunscreen for added protection.
- Incorporate greens into your diet. Skincare facialist Joanna Vargas advises starting your day with a shot of chlorophyll to brighten and hydrate the skin. Chlorophyll supplements are available if you prefer not to take a shot. Drinking green juices with vegetable content can also transform your skin within days, promoting oxygenation and lymphatic drainage.
- Maintain a healthy diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining skin moisture. Include foods rich in omega-3, such as flax seeds and walnuts, in your diet. Additionally, opt for a low-glycemic-index diet to minimize consumption of simple and complex carbohydrates.
- Clean your makeup brushes regularly. To prevent infections and clogged pores, dermatologist Dr. Prystowsky recommends washing concealer and foundation brushes weekly, eye brushes bi-monthly, and other brushes monthly. Use mild shampoo, avoid wetting the base of the brush, and let them dry on their side with bristles hanging off the counter.
- Wear sunscreen every day. Protection against UV rays is crucial regardless of weather conditions or indoor/outdoor activities, says Dr. Palmer. Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and remember to reapply every two hours.
- Extend sun protection beyond sunscreen. Incorporate SPF makeup, sunglasses, and broad-brimmed hats into your routine. Preventing sun damage is more effective than treating it afterward, advises Dr. Prystowsky.
- Simplify your skincare routine. While trying trendy products with fancy ingredients can be fun, Dr. Prystowsky suggests relying on cleansers and moisturizers that have proven effective for you as the foundation of your routine.
- Optimize your sleep routine. In addition to ensuring sufficient sleep, using clean silk pillowcases can benefit your skin. Dermatologist Dr. Jesleen Ahluwalia recommends silk for its gentle texture, reducing creasing, wrinkles, hair tangles, and breakage.
With these expert-backed skincare tips, you can embark on a journey to achieve healthy, radiant skin without confusion or excessive spending.
