Core Four Skincare Essentials: Where To Begin

When it comes to beautiful skin, it is easy to become disoriented by the plethora of products. Many skincare collections contain multiple products to be used in conjunction with one-another, and this can be both daunting and pricey. So, for this post I would like to focus on getting into a healthy skincare regimen with four core skincare essentials: a cleanser, an exfoliant, a moisturizer, and SPF. Once you have these four down-pat, you can start to build your collection. So, are you ready for it?

Core Four Skincare Essentials

Cleanser - This should be the first skincare step in any regimen, and I deem this absolutely necessary both AM & PM. Now, I know you might be wondering why I would recommend AM cleansing . I always recommend following your cleanser with a moisturizing product of some sort; especially at night. Cleansing your skin in the AM will help clear the pores and prepare it for any skincare products you plan on wearing during the day. My biggest cleanser tip would be to find the right cleanser for your skin type. There is no "one-size-fits-all" when it comes to skincare products, so it is important to consider your skin type and consult with a professional to find the right product for you. If you don't like your first cleanser, try another. Sometimes it is all about trial and error. Also, don't get carried away. Cleansing AM & PM is essential, but over cleansing can strip the skin of it's essential oils, making it dry and more vulnerable to bacteria.

Exfoliant - I can't wrap my head around why so many people avoid this amazing, essential step. What I love about exfoliants is that there is such a wide variety to them: you can have a manual scrub, which incorporates little beads or abbrasive ingredients to help physically slow away dead skin. You can indulge in a mask whose enzyme ingredients help to kiss dead skin goodbye, revealing brighter, more beautiful skin upon washing it off. There are also leave-on treatments that are safe to use day or night to create healthier, more even, luminous skin. The options are endless, and I highly encourage each and every one of my beauty mates to look into them. There are even exfoliating options out there for being with sensitive, delicate skin. My estheticians and myself are here to help if you ever have any questions for product-selection. Much like cleansing, it is important to grab one that is right for your skin type, and to follow directions and not overuse.

Moisturize - Again, the options are endless. I love creams and serums the most, but gels have proven to be incredibly effective as well. Moisturizing your skin helps to keep it supple, soft, and firm. Meaning it is a great way to slow down or reverse the signs of aging. The added bonus comes depending on the ingredients of your particular moisturizer - some are anti-aging, some are anti-acne, some brighten, some lift, some tighten. Some are even multi-functional . Again, consult an esthetician, and be sure to follow directions.

Sunscreen - I.cannot.stress.this.enough. ALWAYS wear sunscreen. If you have had zero luck with drugstore brands , it is definitely time to invest in something "higher end". There are so many fabulous options that will not cause your skin to feel greasy, heavy, or clog your pores. You can even incorporate SPF into your priming or makeup routine. Many tinted moisturizers are also infused with SPF. No matter what, find an SPF that works for you, and use it daily. Remember the reapply every 2-3 hours depending on the amount of sun exposure and sweat/water exposure you have. I always carry my Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Powder Brushes with me everywhere I go for easy application of my SPF. Not only does it go over my makeup seamlessly, but it actually helps to absorb the existing oil on my face.

Expand - if you have had trouble sticking to a regimen in the past, or simply haven't gotten on one for fear of cost/time, these core four are the way to go. Of course, there are so many other products that I would recommend for you once you have these four incorporated into your daily routine. Remember: skincare is the key to beautiful skin. Whether you are trying to achieve an anti-aging effect, or keep skin clear, a good skincare regimen will benefit your health and your self esteem! Enjoy, Beauty Mates.