Skincare 101

When I first started my skincare routine, I honestly had no idea what was what. People would recommend toner, essence, and masks, and I would just shake my head in response even though inside my head was a mess. Here's an easy guide for those who are new to the skincare regimen!

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Layering products is key when it comes to skincare! And don't be scared when you see the long list down below. This is the most one can do and some of these products aren't to be applied everyday. Honestly, if you're lazy and tired at the end of the day and miss a step, there's really no repercussions, so don't stress!

1. Makeup Remover

This step is so crucial to any skincare routine. Makeup clogs up pores and clogged up pores can lead to breakouts. I personally like to break this step into two: wipes and oil. I like to use the Neutrogena Facial Wipes to take off any remaining makeup from the end of the day. But sometimes as much as I use the wipes, there are still remnants left, especially eyeliner and mascara. Then, I go with an oil based cleanser using a cotton pad to soak the product to gently remove the excess makeup. By making this step into two, you're ready to wash any other impurities and refresh your skin! 

2. Facial Wash

Another major step in the routine is the double-wash. Use your favorite face cleanser and remove any other impurities from your face, finishing off the cleansing portion of the routine. Use warm water in the beginning to open up the pores, allowing for a deeper cleanse. Then after using the cleanser, wash with cold water to close the pores and refresh the face. 

3. Exfoliation

Exfoliation is removing the dead skin on your face, leaving it feel fresh. However, exfoliation should be done only once or twice a week as to not irritate the skin. You can either buy exfoliators or DIY them at home!

4. Toner

Toner helps to balance your skin's pH. More importantly, using toner adds moisture to your skin so that it helps prep it to absorb the following skincare treatments. There are two ways to apply toner: just lightly sprinkle into your hands or apply on a cotton pad. I personally like using the former because sometimes the cotton pads absorbs too much product and doesn't allow for full coverage.

5. Essence

Essence acts both as a toner and a serum. Its main function is to hydrate the skin and aid skin repair. Essence is mostly used by women in Asia, but it is slowly making traction into the American americans. However, instead of using a cotton apply, essence should be tapped on from the chin upward using the palms of your hands. 

6. Serums, Ampoules, Boosters, Acne Treatments

These skincare products are really catered to your own regimen. What do you need? More moisture, acne treatment? My recommendation would to go to your local beauty store and ask a beauty advisor what they would advise for your particular skincare routine.

7. Eye Cream

Eye Cream is supposed to keep away those nasty bags and wrinkles! To be honest, it might seem to early to think about the skin around your eyes. But let me tell you- it's not. Especially as we stare into the computer and iPhones more, eye cream is becoming more necessary than before.

8. Moisturizer

After you apply the other skincare products, use moisturizer to lock them all in. Especially in Chicago, the wind can dry out your skin so easily so this last step is one not to be forgotten! Personally, I like to have my day moisturizer contain SPF so I don't have to apply sunscreen afterwards. 

Hopefully this guide help elucidate any questions you had about the skincare routine!
Stay tuned for other beauty guides in the future, and if there's something in particular you'd like to see, leave it in the comments down below!

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