How to take care of your skin

1. Determine Your Skin Type

Most skin care products are designed for specific skin types, so the first step in taking care of your skin is to determine what type of skin you have. A dermatologist can give you the most definitive answer but there are also certain overarching characteristics that can define skin types. For instance, if your skin looks shiny and is oily to the touch, chances are you have oily skin. If the oiliness is contained within your T-zone you may have combination skin. Skin that has very little or no natural oils is considered dry. If your skin is prone to breakouts and irritation you most likely have sensitive skin. You can also have normal skin which means it has balanced oil levels and is also not reactive to products or external influences.

2. Purchase The Right Products

Now that you have an understanding of different skin types and which one you might be, you can look for products best suited to your skin’s needs. The basics of a good skin care routine include a cleanser, moisturizer, SPF, an exfoliating product and possibly a mask. You should be cleansing, moisturizing and protecting your skin from the sun every day. Exfoliation and using a mask can be less frequent, however there are products that may be compatible with your skin type and can be used on a day-to-day basis.

3. Cleanse

Every morning and evening you should be cleansing your skin. There are a myriad of products out there and you can pick one that suits your lifestyle and skin type. If you like to wash your face and refresh it with water use a rinsable cleanser. Many products have skin-beautifying formulas infused with antioxidants, charcoal and humectants that can help your skin look and feel better after cleansing.

4. Exfoliate

A scrub or an exfoliating cleanser is a great way to help your skin shed dead cells from skin’s surface and reveal a fresh look. It can help even out skin and refine pores. At least once a week you should try to exfoliate your skin to help prevent dullness and rid skin of dirt and grime that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

5. Moisturize

Your skin needs moisture and hydration to function and there are many moisturizers out there in the market place — you’re guaranteed to find something to suit your needs. There are a variety of consistencies ranging from thick creams to lightweight gel moisturizers. Moisturizers formulated with antioxidants, such as Vitamin C and E can help protect skin from free radical damage and have anti-aging benefits. A great option for dry skin is Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel Cream For Dry Skin which is infused with antioxidant fruit water. It hydrates and nourishes skin and plumps the appearance of skin so it looks refreshed. Oilier skin types can benefit from a lightweight gel such as Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream for Normal/Combination Skin. It has a hydrating formula that can help moisturize your skin without adding any oil to it.

6. Protect

The best way to protect your skin from the premature signs of aging such as fine lines, dark spots and wrinkles is to use a broad-spectrum SPF every single day. The sun is the number one cause of aging in our skin so you should protect yourself by wearing at least SPF 15 on your face, neck and chest every day. Apply sunscreen liberally on your whole body and re-apply consistently on beach days.

7. Adapt To The Season

A great way to ensure that your skin is happy and healthy-looking year-round is to adapt your skin care routine throughout the seasons. Dry skin types can become even drier in the winter due to frigid temperatures, heaters and taking hot showers. Oily skin types can become oilier due to humidity and higher temperatures. Play around with consistencies and formulations. If you notice that your skin isn’t responding to your usual products it may be time to switch it up.