How to Develop a Winning Skincare Regimen
A proper skincare regimen will ensure that your skin looks and feels its best. With so many different types of products on the market with numerous claims sometimes developing (or maintaining) a winning routine can be difficult. In fact, a common question our patients ask concerns how to develop a custom routine that will effectively address their individual issues.
Below is an overview of standard skincare product types along with a basic skincare regimen that should work for most people. Keep in mind that if you have additional skin concerns you may need to add other products for effective treatments. Also you may want to alternate the use of different products until you find specific treatments that work best with your skin.
Skincare Products Overview
Cleanser: Cleansers serve to remove makeup, oil, and other unwanted debris. Proper cleansing reduces acne, helps the skin stay properly hydrated, and helps other skincare products work more effectively. Note: washing with water alone isn’t enough.
Toner: Toners soften, smooth, and calm the skin while removing any debris that a cleanser may leave behind. Many toners include skin repairing ingredients that help replenish and rehydrate the skin after cleansing. The regular use of a good toner can significantly limit skin dryness and redness.
Exfoliators: Exfoliators remove dead skin cells that build up on the surface of the skin, helping to reveal a fresh new layer on the surface. Regularly exfoliating helps keep the skin looking youthful and feeling smooth. Some exfoliating products contain alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) or beta hydroxyl acid (BHA) which control the development of acne and other skin blemishing.
Acne Products: Topical based acne products kill acne causing bacteria and reduce acne associated redness. Most popular acne treatment products contain benzoyl peroxide; a compound that effectively treats mild to moderate acne.
Skin Lightening Products: Skin lighteners, usually used once daily, reduce the skin’s production of melanin, the source of pigmentation related issues. Skin lightening products gradually lighten the skin; reducing brown spots and other discolorations.
Anti-Aging Products: Serums containing growth factors, antioxidants, retinoids, and other anti-aging ingredients can stimulate collagen production to minimize wrinkles and reduce sun damage. Many of these treatments also prevent skin damage and aging from various environmental factors.
Moisturizer with Sunscreen: An essential product for daytime use to moisturize and protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. We recommend the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen (which protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of 15 or higher. Protecting your skin from the sun can reduce several signs of aging including wrinkles and age spots.
Moisturizer: Moisturizers in any form (cream, gel, or liquid) improve the skin’s overall functioning; keeping it feeling smooth and soft. Daily use has been shown to help the skin look and feel healthier.
The Basic Morning Routine:
- Cleanser
- Toner
- Exfoliant
- Treatment
- Moisturizer w/ sunscreen
The Basic Evening Routine:
- Cleanser
- Toner
- Exfoliant
- Treatment
- Moisturizer
An experienced dermatologist or skin care professional can help you find the right combination of products to form a winning skincare regimen for your specific needs. To set up an appointment contact us today!
You can also shop the largest collection of dermatological-grade skincare products online at our online store.
A united group of skin care specialists from Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, Austin's leader in Dermatology and Plastic Surgery. Articles posted under WD staff are authored through combined contributions from our entire team, including Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists, Aestheticians, Physician Assistants, Aesthetic Nurses, and Patient Coordinators.
Gosh, I wish I would have had read these tips earlier!