As always, skin care can be super confusing and overwhelming. But once you start experimenting and finding which ingredients work well for you, you start to learn a thing or two. Specifically about which products to keep and which ones to chuck out the window. And the products you used to have as your go-to or the tips you thought worked wonders might do more harm than good. Here are some of our personal skin care dos and don’ts you may find helpful.
1. DON’T Rely on Drying Lotions | DO Try Chemical Exfoliation
Once you see a pimple, you might automatically reach for a quick-fix. In this case, your “handy, dandy” drying lotion. Some of you will see results overnight, but there’s a cost. That’s because these small pink bottles contain isopropyl/rubbing alcohol, sometimes at high concentrations to zap acne-causing bacteria right away. With this is mind, you can potentially dry out your skin, cause even more inflammation, and prolong the healing process. And in my experience, stubborn hyperpigmentation!
So what should we use instead? Oily, acne-prone skin types can actually benefit from chemical exfoliation. Preferably in the form of toners, serums, spot treatments etc. These types of products work by sloughing off dead skin cells and increasing natural cell turnover to gradually reveal clearer, glowing skin. The ingredients can even unclog our pores to prevent any future breakouts. Even better, some acids are hydrating – perfect for treating those pesky pimples!
Product Recommendations
2. DON’T Triple Mask | DO Stick to One Hydrating Sheet Mask
Obsessed with masks? Then you’ve probably heard of this one skincare tip – multi-masking. Applying more than one during your indoor spa day can definitely help to target multiple skin issues. But that depends on whether you’re layering them with the right actives or in the correct order. For instance, if you notice most of your masks have AHAs/BHAs, then there’s a risk of over-exoliation. This can cause damage to your skin barrier and other issues later on.
More isn’t always better. Sometimes, wearing a simple hydrating sheet mask is all it takes for a major pick-me-up. Remember, keeping your skin hydrated can improve elasticity, plumpness, sebum control, as well as protection against environment stressors.
Product Recommendations
Dr. Jart+ Dermask Water Jet Vital Hydra Solution
3. DON’T Use Salicylic Acid Cleansers | DO Use Gentle Cleansers & AHA/BHA Topicals
Salicylic Acid is one of those holy grail ingredients for oily skin and acne. It’s anti-inflammatory, exfoliating, pore-cleansing, among many benefits. But how effective is this active when it comes to cleansers? Well, taking into consideration the low concentration and the wash-off component, not really. Only because there are other topical treatments that are far more potent and compelling.
Since AHAs and BHAs can be quite drying, we recommend you replace any exfoliating cleansers with gentle ones that can help soothe. Look for those with mild surfactants, moisturizing and calming ingredients, and a skin-identical pH. If you do decide to use salicylic acid, it’s best to to use it during your toning or serum step for better results.
Product Recommendations
4. DON’T Attempt 10-Step Skincare Routine | DO Focus on the Foundation & Essentials
K-beauty gurus, we know you know the infamous 10-step routine! Aka, that lengthy skincare regimen where you combine every possible product out there for every skin concern to help you achieve “perfect” skin. Sure, it’s luxurious, but it’s probably not worth it or necessary in the long-run. Buying all of these products can really add up, leading to a very expensive routine. Plus, you have to do this every day!
We always try to emphasize the importance of quality over quantity. In other words, sticking to the foundation/basics of skincare and finding ways in which we can streamline our routine to make the most of everything we have. And by getting rid of the non-essentials, we’re saving a lot of time and money. On a similar note, we make sure most of our skincare focus on the idea of hydration, which is key to a healthier, more youthful complexion.
Product Recommendations
For more information about these steps and more, check out our video:
Head over to more information and product recommendations: youtube.com/c/BeautyWithin
Hey Felicia and Rowena, love your content, thanks for what you do!
In point 4 you say “focus on the essentials”, but which are the essential steps exactly? Cleanser, toner, serum and cream? And, in this order?
Thank you for your reply.
X
Hi Barbara!
We’re so glad you enjoy our content!
To answer your question, the essential steps are 1. cleanser, 2. moisturizer, and 3. SPF/sunscreen. If you want to learn more about the basics and the other steps, we go over this point in our video on how to build an effective skincare routine, as well in the one for teens.
Hope this helps!
What are your thoughts on the cerave sa cleanser? It has niaminacide and is often recommended
Hi Cynthia!
I personally haven’t tried this cleanser, but based on what I know about CeraVe and the ingredients listed, it seems gentle and hydrating. All at an affordable price too! This is definitely a great introduction to niacinamide and salicylic acid, especially if you have oily, acne-prone skin. But since this is a wash-off product, SA might not be as effective as other topical treatments. If you’re not new to AHAs/BHAs and you want something more potent, I would suggest using them in the form of toners, serums, and creams.
Hope this helps!
The good molecules niacinamide toner have a 6 pH level. Is it save for oily acne prone skin?