SKIN CARE ROUTINE

Lateefah Fatunbi and Praise Oladoyin
February 12, 2018

Step 1: Know Your Skin Type

The right routine starts with knowing what kind of skin you have. Only then, will you know how to take care of it.

Step 2: Cleaning Normal/Combo Skin

Apply a gentle cleanser or soap with your fingertips, however, don’t scrub your face as it may cause irritation. Rinse with plenty of warm water, then pat dry. If your skin dries out or gets oily, try a different cleanser.

Step 3: Moisturize

Next, apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp from washing to help seal in moisture. If you have acne or your skin is oily, find a moisturizer that’s lightweight and oil-free, so it won’t clog your pores.

Step 4: Put on Sunscreen

Your moisturizer may already have sunscreen in it, but it’s a good idea to use separate protection as well. Look for a sunscreen that gives broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of at least 30. Wear it every day even if it’s not sunny and re-apply every 2 hours.

When Should You Wash?

 You can dry out your skin by washing it too much, so once a day is fine for most people. In the morning, rinse your face with lukewarm water. Use a soft towel to pat it dry. At night, wash with a cleanser or gentle soap gets rid of the day’s dirt and makeup. If you exercise, play sports, or have PE, you may want to wash your face afterwards with a gentle cleanser. Sweat can clog your pores and make acne worse.

Don’t Wear Makeup to Bed

When you’re tired, it can be tempting to go to bed without washing your face. But leaving makeup on your skin can clog your pores and cause acne. So wash it off with a gentle cleanser or makeup remover. Use a soft washcloth or cotton pads.

How to Treat Acne

Don’t pop those pimples! That can lead to infection and scars. Instead, try acne-fighting products. They come as lotions, creams, gels, and cleansing pads. Follow the directions carefully. If you use them too much or too often, they can irritate your skin and cause more blemishes. Just be patient — they can take 8 weeks to work. If your acne is really bad, get help from a dermatologist.