Skincare 101 - Your Basic Skincare Routine

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Today, creating a skincare routine can be overwhelming for well-rounded skincare fanatics, and for those new to it. I remember walking into Sephora and being submerged in a sea of brands and products ranging in price, formula and purpose, without a clue where to even start. If this is you, have no fear! I have partnered with my good friend Tamara, owner Beauty Mark Spa & Wax Bar at The Loft Hair Establishment. Tamara has been a Licensed Esthetician for 20 years and has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to anything waxing, skincare, and brows.

If you couldn’t tell from the title, Tamara and I chatted about what a basic skincare routine should look like for those who are either just getting into it, or are drowning in product recommendations from retail shops. On top of that, we talked about the importance of each product and specific kinds she recommends. So read on my friend!

Where should I start?

“For a skincare newbie my philosophy has always been to start small so you don’t get overwhelmed with all of the products and the commitment to a new routine,” said Tamara right of the bat. “My top three products that everyone should start with are a cleanser, moisturizer and a sunscreen.”

Cleanser

Using a cleanser will ensure your skin is clean and ready to go for the day or night! It will remove any extra makeup, oil and dirt that might be on your skin from the day or your sleep. Tamara suggests using a milky cleanser as they a great for being effective without stripping the skin.

Moisturizer

Moisturizer is key for any skin type to use morning and night! This helps rehydrate and moisturize the skin after cleansing. It is one of the best defences against ageing, dry skin, acne, and basically everything you might not LOVE about your skin. You might be thinking, “But I have really oily skin so I can’t use a moisturize.” This is actually a really common misconception! The oil that our skin produces essentially a moisturizer that we naturally produce. So, when you strip away those oils with a cleanser without replenishing them using a moisturizer, your skin goes into overdrive producing oil trying to moisturize itself! See where this can start to actually worsen skin conditions such as excess oil production and acne?

Sunscreen

“Sunscreen is an absolute MUST!” -Tamara

Sunscreen is probably the last thing that most people think of when it comes to their daily skincare routine but it is actually the most important. It is the best defence against not only ageing but serious health concerns like skin cancer.

Did you know that those sun spots or ageing you are experiencing, or fear experiencing are actually the results of sun damage caused 10+ years prior to it actually showing up on your skin? Yup. That means all of us 20-something guys and gals that think we are so young and flawless and don’t need it will suffer the consequences in the years to come.

Have I convinced you to wear it when you are out in the sun yet? Good. Now, don’t think that just because you live in a winter country means you only have to bother during the summer. Sorry to burst your bubble, but you need to apply it ALL YEAR ROUND. Just because the sun isn’t warm and toasty, doesn’t mean its powerful rays aren’t damaging your skin.

How do I Know What Is Best For My Skin Type?

If you are asking yourself this question, that is absolutely fair. There are so many different products on the market it can be hard to know what is best for you! Stay tuned, more blogs to come on what types of formulas are best for you!

For now, I recommend seeing a dermatologist or esthetician for a skin consultation to learn more about your skin and what is best for you! Tamara is offering 15% off ALL services including her facials - which include a consultation - for the month of August 2020. Visit her website to book!

Things to Remember

Here are some things to remember when looking for a new skincare routine or revamping an existing one:

• Sunscreen is the most important! If it helps, get a moisturizer with at least SPF 30 already in it to kill two birds with one stone.

• If you are unsure, ask a professional such as a dermatologist or an esthetician.

• Look for high-quality products that have fewer fillers and fragrance and more of the good stuff.

• If you are new, once you find the basics that work for you it's great to try adding treatments such as a toner, serum or oil to assist in treating any specific concerns.

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