Creating a Simple Skincare Routine for the Busy Schedule!

As we get back in the swing of routine schedules with school, work, and extracurricular activities, it’s important to adjust your daily skincare routines so they can be quick, effective, and easy to follow every day! Take a look at 6 simple yet must have steps to include in your morning and evening skincare routines to start your face on a flourishing journey this academic year into the holiday seasons! 

1. Gentle Cleanser:  You should cleanse your skin two times per day, morning and evening. Always, start with a cleanser that's suitable for your particular skin type. Cleansing helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup, which can clog pores and cause breakouts.

•  If you have sensitive skin, look for gentle cleansers including Cetaphil, Cerave, La Roche Posay, and Dove. 
• If you are dealing with acne prone skin, choose cleansers that include active acne fighting ingredients, including benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. 
• If you are using a retinol/retinoid at nighttime, make sure to use a gentle cleanser in the evening. Using a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide-based cleanser with a retinoid at night can cause excessive skin dryness and irritation.

2. Moisturizer: Select a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won't clog your pores for your morning routine. If you have oily skin, you might prefer a gel-based moisturizer to allow for better evaporation into the skin. If you have dry or sensitive skin, a cream-based moisturizer will likely be more suitable.

• Also look for moisturizers that contain the ingredient hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is a molecule that helps to absorb and retain moisture in the skin. Neutrogena Hydroboost gel cream and La Roche Posay hyaluronic acid serum are great options for HA moisturizers.

3. Sunscreen (for morning routine): Daily sun protection is essential, even on cloudy days or if you're mostly indoors. UV rays can penetrate windows, so it's crucial to protect your skin. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30. Tinted sunscreens are also recommended as they help to block blue and visible light, which is the light emitted from the computer screens and fluorescent lights.

•  Several sunscreens that rub into all skin types, especially black skin, include Elta MD Clear/Tinted Sunscreen, ISDIN Tinted Sunscreen, and La Roche Posay Mineral Tinted Sunscreen. Make sure to thoroughly rub into the skin until you no longer see it.

4. Night Cream (for evening routine): At night, if you don’t have sensitive skin, consider adding a retinol/retinoid into your regimen 2-3 nights/week to assist with skin exfoliation, acne, decrease in oil production, and evening of skin tone. A little goes a LONG way, so make sure not to apply more than a pea size amount to the ENTIRE face. It is also ok to use a moisturizer either before and/or after the retinol/retinoid for increased tolerance. 

Additional Add-Ons:

5. Treatment (as needed): If you're dealing with specific skin concerns like acne, you might want to incorporate other medications as prescribed by a board certified dermatologist, like Dr. Lauren Payne. Remember to introduce new products slowly and let your physician know if you are experiencing adverse effects. 

6. Lip Care: Don't forget about your lips. A simple lip balm with SPF for daytime use can help keep lips moisturized and protected.

A few extra tips:

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin hydration from the inside out.

• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can promote healthier skin.

• Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to give your skin a chance to repair and regenerate.

• Avoid Touching Face: Minimize touching your face with your hands to reduce the transfer of oils and potential irritants.

Lastly, everyone's skin is unique. What works for one person might not work for another, so it's always a good idea to monitor how your skin reacts and adjust your routine accordingly. If you have persistent skin issues or concerns, make sure to follow up with a Board-Certified Dermatologist like Dr. Lauren Payne to customize a skincare plan specific to your skin needs and goals!