Building the perfect daily skincare routine with Cuticura
Just like so many good things in life, the perfect daily skincare routine comes down to basics: cleanse, moisturise, and protect your skin. It’s really as simple as that to nurture healthy skin with a natural glow. So, whether you’re just starting your skincare journey or you’re looking to refine your routine, we’re here to help you.
First things first: How to know your skin type
Understanding your skin type is the cornerstone of a successful skincare routine because different skin types have unique characteristics and require specific care. The absolute best way to determine what skin type you have is to consult with a dermatologist, however, there’s a straightforward test that you can do at home that can also reveal a lot about your skin type.
Here’s what to do: Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser, and then see how your skin reacts over time. Resist the urge to apply any products after washing your face, and take note of how your skin feels after an hour.
Feeling tight and dry? You likely have dry skin. If you notice that your forehead and nose are shiny while the rest of your face feels normal or dry, it is a possible indication that you may have combination skin. And if you can see a shininess all over your face, you probably have oily skin.
Remember to conduct this test on a day when your skin isn’t exposed to harsh environmental factors like cold winds or the ultraviolet rays from the sun.
Essential steps for a daily skincare routine:
Cleansing
So, no matter your skin type, the first step to a perfect daily skincare routine is cleansing. This is to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria on your skin, which could otherwise block your pores and lead to pimples.
Using a gentle cleanser – specifically designed for your skin type – can go a long way in solving some of your skin problems. If you struggle with acne prone skin, our Pimple Rescue Charcoal Soap Bar is a great option for a mild face wash. It is also a good option for those with combination skin, too.
Oily skin? Try the Cuticura Oil Control Face Wash; it contains lemon extract with natural acids that break down excess oil without disrupting the skin’s delicate balance. And if you have dry skin, the Cuticura Gentle Hygiene Face Wash is perfect to nourish as well as cleanse your face.
How to wash your face
- Wash your face twice a day, in the morning and evening, and after you get sweaty.
- Make gentle, circular motions across your face and work the cleanser into a foam.
- Use lukewarm water to rinse your face – not too hot, not too cold.
- Dry your face with a clean towel and avoid unnecessary roughness.
Moisturising
After cleansing, it’s essential to moisturise the skin as it helps to maintain skin elasticity and overall skin health. Again, it is important to pick a moisturiser that suits your skin type to ensure that you hydrate the skin and create a protective barrier against environmental stressors. You should also drink enough water to keep your skin hydrated.
Cuticura Vanishing Cream is suitable for normal to oily skin and contains grapefruit extract, which helps to balance your skin for less oiliness and shine – plus, it has been associated with reduced skin pigmentation.
Benefits of sunscreen
One thing you have to understand is that the ultraviolet rays from the sun can be harmful, but without it, your health will suffer. You see, the right amount of UV exposure helps your body to make vitamin D – all you need to do is bare some skin. But please, we beg of you: wear sunscreen. There’s no real indication that wearing sunscreen interferes with your body’s ability to synthesise vitamin D, however, there’s sufficient data that supports the harmful effects of unprotected sun exposure.
Remember, damage from UV exposure is cumulative, and your risk for skin cancer increases every time you are in the sun without protection. Therefore, sunscreen application is essential year-round, even on cloudy days or during the winter.
Common mistakes to avoid
One of the biggest mistakes that people make is to create an overly complicated skincare routine. This makes it hard to determine which products are actually serving you, and which might be causing problems. And if they are not designed to work together, you could be spending money on products that are, in fact, working against each other.
Another big no-no is over-exfoliation because it damages the skin’s delicate protective barrier. Consequently, bad stuff can get into your skin’s pores and cause irritation, inflammation, and – you guessed it – pimples.
The key is to be gentle, as you do want to remove the layer of dead skin cells that build up over time. Yet, the frequency of exfoliation should be tailored to your skin type and sensitivity, so take note of how your skin reacts and give your skin enough time to recover after each exfoliation.
Here’s how to exfoliate your face:
- Avoid daily exfoliation. Weekly or bi-weekly is a much better idea.
- No excessive scrubbing. It’s your face, darling, not a dirty dish!
Embrace consistency
Lastly, we cannot stress the importance of consistency. By establishing a regular routine and sticking to it, you can maximise the benefits of your skincare products and achieve long-lasting results.
Cuticura products are available at all leading supermarkets and pharmacies nationwide, as well as on Takealot.
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DISCLAIMER: Please note that the information provided on this site is for educational purposes only and does not provide a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or skin concerns.