What skincare products you actually NEED in your routine

Our skin is a representation of our life. Our age, genetics, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, stress levels, medical conditions, and skincare routine. As we navigate life, the aging process is an inescapable reality.

In the world of skincare, it feels like we’re constantly bombarded with suggestions on what products to slather on our faces and what to avoid. There are so many options out there and it can get confusing on what you should actually be using. A proper skincare routine is an excellent tool that you can use at home to slow down the process of aging. Here are the 5 main skin care products you need in your toolbox and how you should be using them: 

• Sunscreen: Sunscreen is the key to maintaining healthy and youthful skin. The sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause premature aging. Exposure to UV rays can cause fine lines and wrinkles. This can also lead to skin damage, including hyperpigmentation, skin patches, and skin cancer. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen creates a protective barrier that shields your skin from UVA and UVB rays, preventing long-term damage. It’s best to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30+. If exposed to sunlight, you should apply it daily in the morning and throughout the day.

• Retinol: Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, is clinically proven to stimulate collagen production and promote cell turnover. As a result, it effectively reduces and prevents the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. It improves skin texture, leaving you with smoother skin. It could also be used as an acne treatment. It helps unclog pores, prevent the formation of blackheads and whiteheads, and regulate oil production. Retinol can transform your skin quality and complexion. Using it consistently results in clearer, brighter, and more youthful skin. In the beginning stages of using Retinol, apply it every other night and then start applying it every night.

• Vitamin C. Serum: Vitamin C. is a potent antioxidant that provides various benefits for your skin. Vitamin C. is an essential component for collagen production. It helps restore firmness and elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This also helps fade dark spots, improve hyperpigmentation, brighten your skin, and even out your complexion. Apply every morning and reapply every 2 hours, once under direct sun.

• Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is the key to achieving plump, moisturized, youthful-looking skin. This is composed of microparticles that penetrate the skin, giving you maximum hydration. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance in the skin that attracts and holds water. When using the serum, it provides intense hydration without feeling oily. This restores your skin’s natural radiance and leaves your skin looking dewy and glowy. Apply morning and night.

• Retinol Eye Cream: As we age, the skin around our eyes changes, such as reduced collagen and elastin production, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and a loss of firmness. Retinol-based eye cream stimulates collagen production. This fights the signs of aging in the eye area. It also reduces the appearance of under-eye bags, dark circles, and puffiness. Apply morning and night.