Skincare 101
Skincare can be overwhelming if you are new to it. When I was younger, I would watch my mom apply creams and lotions on her face. She used Pomada de la Campana as an overnight cream for her dry skin. During the day, she used Pond’s Cold Cream. I did not understand the importance of creams and lotions, but as I grew older, I noticed that, just like my mom, I had dry skin, except that I never did anything to moisturize. I did not think it was important to moisturize despite watching my mom take care of her skin. It wasn’t until I got to college when I saw my friends put lotion on during the morning and at night that I decided to start taking care of my skin. After all, our bodies are our vessels and we should take care of them.
Let’s talk about the basics of skincare by delving into a basic skincare routine. In what order is it recommended to use a cleanser, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen?
Cleanser
Cleansing is essential for the skin since we usually have a build-up of sebum, sweat, and dirt after a long day. Always make sure to use a cleanser that is for your skin type. If you have dry skin use one for dry skin and if you have oily skin use one for oily skin. CeraVe has great options for different skin types. I use the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin. Cleansing provides a clean slate that allows other products to properly absorb.
Serums
Serums are packed with antioxidants like Vitamins A, C, and E that help treat the skin by targeting acne, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles. Serums should be applied after cleansing and before moisturizing so they are properly absorbed.
Moisturizer
Moisturizers can be applied after you have cleansed and applied a serum since you usually lose moisture while you cleanse. I recommend that you moisturize in the morning and at night. Whether you have dry or oily skin, it is important that you moisturize since you do not want to have extremely dry or extremely oily skin. If you have oily skin, the signal to produce more oil is reduced. As a result, the skin produces less pore-clogging oil on its own, reducing the probability of having acne. If you have dry skin, moisturizing protects your skin from irritation, preventing acne. Lastly, moisturizing also helps prevent wrinkles and diminish fine lines. My favorite moisturizer is the all-natural Piel de Tierra Natural Sensitive Skin Lotion.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is important for all skin types and should be applied after your moisturizer in the morning and as needed throughout the day. You should be wearing sunscreen every day! Yes, even on cloudy and snowy days. Even though the sun may not be visible, there are always ultraviolet (UV) rays. I use the CeraVe Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Lotion for Face SPF 30. However, I recommend using a sunscreen that is SPF 50 so it will offer more protection. If worn every day, sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer and help slow down the aging process.
Skincare does not have to feel scary. Identify what your skin type is and look for products for your skin type to see the best results. Happy skincare-ing!
xx Piel de Tierra