Hello Lovelies, No amount of makeup can make up for a bad complexion. There’s really no excuse for neglecting your skincare routine. Try this perfect 5-minute evening skincare routine tonight, and you’ll undoubtedly see a fresher face within a few days.
I’ll bet you didn’t know your skin undergoes a natural rejuvenation and repair process at night. This night-time process is not well-known. So, the products you choose for this critical time can have a transformative effect on your skin. An essential component of good skincare is first removing accumulated makeup, oil, and dirt from the day. My mom was a great role model in my formative years. Drawn to her room with the scent of Oil of Olay or Avon creams she applied after cleansing, I can still see her reflected in the oversized dresser mirrors on trend then. Plus, using other products can target specific skin issues, such as brown spots and wrinkles. You can help your skin look its best by following a basic 5-minute routine.
This article is long, and it may not appear that the routine will only take five minutes or so, but it should only take that long each night. So read through, select your products, and get going. You’ll be happy you did.
Step 1 Cleanser
To start your evening skincare routine, it is essential to wash your face before bed to remove makeup and the oil and dirt that accumulate on your skin throughout the day. Choose the best cleanser for your skin type; you’ll be happier with the result and encouraged to follow through every evening. After washing, You will know you have found the right one when your skin feels clean but not too tight or greasy. If you have oily skin, gel or foam cleansers may work best for you, while those with drier skin types may prefer cream or oil-based formulas. Using a mirror with magnification and light can help ensure that you remove all of your makeup thoroughly.
Step 2 Exfoliant
An exfoliant is the product you’ll need more and more as you age. When you’re young, the top layer of skin turns over to reveal a new, plumper layer roughly every fourteen to twenty-one days. By age 30, the rate begins to slow; by age 50 and older, regeneration takes two to three times as long. That’s why older skin can look so dully and blotchy. Fun stuff, I know.
Products containing beta and alpha hydroxy acids can work wonders when promoting cell turnover and revealing a brighter, smoother complexion. They help remove surface irregularities, brown spots from sun damage, and fine wrinkles. Consider going for a combo product like an AHA-infused cleanser or moisturizer. Or, if you prefer, you can opt for a stand-alone formula. According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review, regularly using products with less than ten percent glycolic or lactic acid concentrations is safe. It’s best to start at night and always use sunscreen throughout the day (even if there is no visible sun) because the acids increase the sensitivity to the sun. Initially, they may irritate, so use a soothing moisturizer. It is always best to consult your esthetician for skin type and use recommendations, though. What works for your bestie may not be best for you. If you have sensitive skin, it is better to start using gentle products every other day or three times a week.
Don’t neglect your body. Keep your skin soft and smooth all over with physical exfoliation once or twice a week. An exfoliating sponge, loofah, or washcloth are all effective for stimulating cell turnover for most body parts (except the face, where the skin is too delicate). Try brushing dry skin with a soft-bristled brush before showering, and dry off with a towel that hasn’t seen fabric softener. Always follow exfoliation with a moisturizer.
Step 3 Toner
Toner removes any last traces of dirt, grime, and impurities stuck in your pores after you wash your face. When added to your daily skincare routine and used regularly, it can have a major positive impact on the appearance and tightness of your pores (hello, aging skin). Toner also restores your skin’s pH level, smooths skin by refining rough patches, and improves skin tone. So many benefits!
To properly apply the toner, start by soaking a cotton ball with the product and gently wipe your skin after cleansing, both in the morning and before bed. Not only will this help balance your skin’s pH levels, but it will also prime your skin to better absorb your moisturizer and serum for optimal results. Incorporating this step into your skincare routine can help promote a brighter, healthier-looking complexion.
Step 4 Antioxidant Serum
An accumulation of free radicals caused by the sun and environmental exposure can exacerbate wrinkles and age spots. Fighting these free radicals with antioxidants will help the skin repair itself. While many night-time moisturizers contain antioxidants, a serum is usually more concentrated. Apply your serum after cleansing and use the 30-60 seconds for it to soak in by brushing your hair and applying a dab of perfume.
Step 5 Night Cream
When selecting a night cream for your evening skincare routine, it’s important to consider your main skin concerns. Whether it’s a cream for wrinkles or dry skin, it’s best to consult a dermatologist or a master esthetician. Retinol, peptides, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid are well-known and reliable skincare ingredients.
Step 6 Eye Cream
Some people believe that using eye creams is not essential. However, I enjoy the soothing sensation of applying eye cream and never skip this step. Specifically formulated for the delicate area around the eyes, they can help to firm the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. They are also lighter than regular moisturizers, making them ideal for addressing under-eye concerns. For me, it’s worth taking a few extra seconds to apply eye cream to keep wrinkles and dark circles at bay. Just remember to avoid getting it in your eyes.
Throughout this post, I have linked to Eminence Organic Skincare products that I use. My skin tends to be on the dry side. You should consult a skincare expert to ensure you feed your skin the essentials.
What brands and products have been successful for you? Come on, share with the girls in the comments!
Products I use daily/weekly:
Microdermabrasion Scrub
Facial Steamer
Blackhead Extractor
Eminence Bright Skin Masque
Eminence Mangosteen Cleanser
Eminence Lime Refresh Tonique
Eminence Wild Plum Eye Cream
Eminence Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum
Eminence Blueberry Soy Night Recovery Cream
(All Eminence skincare products are organic.)
You might be interested in Six Reasons Self-Care is Essential.