How to Maximize the Results of Your Skincare
Initially, the world of skincare can feel like entering a foreign country without a map–but we're here to hand you the map you need to be well on your way to finding the best route for you! Vibrant, healthy skin ahead!
1. Consistently follow a skincare routine for your skin type.
Golden rule: Use the right products for your skin type and follow a routine daily. If it's time to brush your teeth, then it's time to do your skincare routine!
So, you found a skincare product you love? That's great! But if you really want to see your skin transform, you need a routine that's right for your skin type! Using a skincare routine where products work together in synergy to change your skin at the cellular level is where the transformation happens.
Determining the right products for your skin type can get tricky but don't worry, we've simplified it for you! Hello Skin Quiz, created by our Founder, a 30-something Nurse Practitioner, to create a simple, effective routine for your unique skin type.
2. Wear SPF every day 'til death do us part.
This is a non-negotiable. Do not invest in any other skincare products until you can commit to wearing sunscreen daily. No ifs, ands or buts. The best sunscreen is the one you will wear every day. Find our favorite SPFs here!
3. Apply your products to damp skin.
After washing your face with cool or lukewarm water (patting dry, never rubbing), it is best to begin applying your skincare products within 60 seconds. You will enhance product penetration which means better results when you apply to damp skin. There are exceptions to this. For example, if you are a retinoid newbie, you can allow your skin to fully dry before applying to minimize sensitivity and irritation.
4. Gradually introduce new products into your routine.
If you are adding retinoids or products with acids (this applies to all acids except hyaluronic acid), we recommend gradually introducing them into your routine to minimize the anticipated sensitivity, dryness and possible irritation that is common with initial usage.
The Barefaced Method on gradually introducing new products with acids or retinoids:
- Start with using ANY new product 3 days/week on alternating days.
- If adding in more than one new product, start each product the same way but on different days.
- Follow that schedule for 2 weeks.
- If the product usage allows for more frequent use and your skin feels normal (balanced, healthy, hydrated), with no sensitivity, then increase in usage frequency by one day (so, to 4 days/week).
- Continue that introduction method as tolerated. If you are happy with the way your skin looks and feels with a few times/week of usage then you do not HAVE to keep increasing frequency of use.
5. Layer your products properly to ensure maximum absorption.
Golden rule: Apply your products thinnest to thickest, with sunscreen always last.
Read this for a complete breakdown of how to properly layer your skincare products.
6. More is not more.
Use the recommended amount of product for the areas you are addressing. Generally that is one pump or if a dropper serum, three drops per area - the face, neck and chest each being an area. We always recommend bringing product down to your neck and chest as they tend to be neglected and are much more difficult to treat once the damage is done.
If you notice pilling after product application, try using less product. If that doesn't work, try eliminating a step from your routine (not sunscreen, duh) because you may be using too many products at once.
7. Double cleanse at night.
Double cleansing isn't technically a "necessary" step but we LOVE it. It's kind of like flossing your teeth: once you start flossing, brushing your teeth alone is never enough.
You can use your face wash twice or a micellar water prior to cleansing. Just make sure you always wash your hands before washing or touching your face. And wash your face with your hands for a full 60 seconds.
8. Store your products properly.
Excessive exposure to heat, air and light can cause some products to degrade more quickly. Make sure you are storing your products in a cool, dark place, a cabinet or drawer in your bathroom is ideal - no skin fridge necessary unless you just like your products to be cold with application.
If you are using products with dropper serums or jars, make sure to close them quickly and tightly after use to prevent unnecessary exposure to air.
9. Listen to your skin.
You know your skin best. When in doubt, reduce the frequency you are using a product with actives, like acids and retinoids, to only a few days a week. The goal is long-term skin health and this is your skin for the rest of your life. It's a marathon not a sprint.
Once your skin has adjusted to your routine (which can take 6-12 weeks), it should feel "normal" (yes, of course, glowy & radiant, too), but you should feel like your skin is balanced, hydrated and polished. If you are outside of the adjustment period and your skin still feels sensitive, irritated or reactive, decrease the frequency of use or email us and we can provide more guidance!
10. Take pictures of your skin & be patient!
Before you start a new product or routine, make sure to take makeup free photos of your skin in good lighting, so, you can keep track of your progress. Results take time and consistency but it is so worth it!
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Sources:
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Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, December 2001, pages 882-885
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Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open, December 2016, 4(12 Suppl): e1152.
