Here’s the Skinny on Caring for Your Skin
Here’s the Skinny on Caring for Your Skin
Seven tips to put your best face forward.
As a licensed esthetician for more than 20 years, it’s easy to think that I’m hyper-focused on my skin. For those of you who don’t know what that long, crazy word is, it basically means I’m a state licensed skin specialist (and FWIW, your skin is the body’s largest organ). Growing up, I was obsessed with my skin, and today I remain dedicated to a healthy skin care routine.
One of the first things I noticed when moving from the north side of Chicago to the part of Maryland that’s just north of Washington DC was that my skin started to change. I swear I must be allergic to the state! I noticed a bit of eczema along my hairline, eyes and hands from time to time, which never happened in Chicago. I knew I had to visit my dermatologist, who concluded that my skin is more sensitive to seasonal allergies out here, which can cause the flare ups. I also noticed a few fine lines on my forehead (I have a hunch those could be stepmom lines lol), but the constant hustle of work and family life is definitely something that contributes to that development!
It was time to show myself some extra love and get into some pampering routines! I got back to giving myself monthly facials (check out my YouTube video for a how-to home facial that I recorded during the pandemic ), using some better quality products geared towards anti-aging, and hydrating my skin on the daily.
So what does a smart routine look like? We hear about the fancy stuff, especially for anti-aging and wrinkles, like laser treatments, peels and Botox. But whatever fancy approach you prefer, don’t forget that you have to meet essential needs for your skin that you can’t really buy from a bottle. Nothing’s better than the basics! That means water, sleep, proper nutrition and reduced stress.
Along with these easy steps, I will insist (again, as a professional esthetician) that regular facials are awesome. Schedule giving yourself a facial on the regular and you’ll see that it does wonders! It’s a fantastic maintenance program for your skin and a fabulous anti-aging preventative. Think of it as one hour a month to devote to yourself!
Here’s my home facial routine. Give it a try! It’s a great way to be good to your face, and be sure to give your neck some love too!
Deep cleansing: Use a cleanser of choice depending on your skin type. I love a foam or gel based cleanser for normal to oily skin to help remove all topical product and oil from the skin. If your skin is normal to dry you may prefer a cream based cleanser. You want to cleanse your skin morning and night and is always the first step in your skin care regimen.
Exfoliation: This removes all dead, dry skin and can prepare the skin for extractions. Exfoliant can come in physical form, meaning a scrub, or chemical form meaning an acid or enzyme. You would typically only receive a stronger form of exfoliation with your skin care specialist, but a scrub is great to do on your own 1-2 per week. You don't want to exfoliate your skin everyday! Your cells need time to regenerate, so keep it minimal. I love to do this step in the shower as the steam helps open up the pores and allows the exfoliant to work better.
Extractions: Typically you want to leave this to the pros, but I am not naive and know you will do it anyways, so let me give you some guidance. Your fingers carry the most bacteria in your body, so do not start attacking your skin. If you do your own extractions, prime time is right after you have steamed your skin and exfoliated. Wash and sanitize your hands, wrap your fingers in cotton and gently maneuver with slight pressure around your black heads and/or white heads. Do not use your nails or anything to break or puncture skin as that can cause infection and irritation. If something is not ready, it’s not ready. Wiggle around the pustule from different directions until oil comes out, the best part for all of you who are obsessed with pimple popping videos lol . Once you are down use some witch hazel or toner to clean the area.
Mask: This would be post extractions, but also a treatment you can utilize 2-3 times per week. Masking often is ok! The type of mask varies depending on skin type. You can find clay based masks which are usually better for acne prone or oily skin to gel based masks that are richer in hydration. The goal of masking is to close pores, hydrate, refine and purify skin and improve overall clarity. I’ve also been having fun with eye masks lately! They are great little eye pads soaked in anti-aging goodness! They feel soooo good!
Serums & Spot Treatments: You want to use a serum typically before your moisturizer. Serums will often be more concentrated and targeted to anti-aging, to help with acne, to diminish redness, age/sun spots, etc. Follow instructions as some may not be for daily use but only a few times per week and usually a very thin layer.
Moisturizers: Your moisturizer can change for AM & PM. This can also change seasonally. During the day you most likely want sunscreen included in your moisturizer. You also may want something a little lighter depending on your activity level and your skin type. At night you will most likely not utilize an SPF and use something a little richer for more hydration!
Eyes & Lips: There are so many eye creams out there. Some are better for puffiness, wrinkles, hydration, dark circles or all! Figure out your needs when selecting what is best for you. Eye cream would go on the eye area. It is important to use a product specifically for your eyes as the skin is more sensitive and thinner. Lastly, we cannot forget our lips! One of the best tips I can give you to exfoliate dry lips is to use a toothbrush (not one you use on your teeth lol) and gently use the bristles to exfoliate. GENTLY! Once skin is exfoliated and dry skin is removed, the product will soak in and work better.
I hope this routine helps you feel empowered to nourish your beautiful skin!
P.S. If you need any specific product recommendations, send me an email. I’m happy to share my favorites! :)