You finally dedicated time each day to create a skincare ritual and honor yourself. But what order do you use your favorite products? How often do you use them?
This is a guide, not a gospel. Remember, you are unique and no one else has your skin. There's no "one size fits all" solution when it comes to skincare. Listen to your skin and find what works for you, even it differs from below.
Morning Ritual:
- cleanser
- facial potion (serum)
- eye cream or
elixir roller
- moisturizer
- facial elixir (oil)
- spf
Evening Ritual:
- cleansing balm
- cleanser
- facial masque
- actives / toner
- facial potion
- eye cream
- moisturizer
- facial elixir
All these steps or products may not be necessary on a daily basis, such as facial masques, retinoids, or AHAs. Follow the directions on the individual products or feel free to reach out to us with any questions. Your skincare ritual also doesn't need to include every product listed, start with a cleanser and moisturizer, then any SPF you enjoy using.
- facial masques: recommended 1-2 times each week, based on your skin needs
- retinoids: recommended 1-3 times each week, until your skin is accustomed to it, then you can use daily. There is some debate that using retinoids may possibly cause
photosensitivity, which is why it is often suggested to use during evening rituals. As long as you ensure SPF is part of your daily morning regimen, there shouldn't be any cause for concern. However if you're using a prescribed [stronger than any OTC cosmetic] retinoid, like Tretinoin, follow the directions of your medical provider or dermatologist.
- alpha hydroxy acids [AHA]: recommended 1-2 times each week.
Over exfoliating can lead to irritation, can make skin issues worse, or lead to new skin issues.
- actives: these can be beta hydroxy acids [BHA] like salicylic acid or various other acids like malic or kojic, or other ingredients meant to target certain skin issues, like hydroquinone. Because of the various actives, there isn't a set guideline, but you certainly don't need to use several at a time.
Try alternating them, using certain ones in the AM and others in the PM, or spreading them out during the week to avoid any potential irritation.
If you are under the treatment of a professional healthcare provider or dermatologist or any other licensed health-care professional, please seek their advice.