As soon as I started the fourth grade, my older sister told me to start washing my face. I questioned why I should because "I didn't have any pimples" but she told me that the earlier you start caring for your skin, the more it will show as you grow up. I took that lesson from my sister to heart and started washing my face every day. As I've gotten older, I've learned what works for my skin type (and what doesn't) and my skincare collection has rapidly grown. My routine may seem excessive, but in the long run, it will help my complexion. A lot of people are intimidated by a lengthy skincare routine but once you get the hang of it, the process can take as little as 5 minutes. Below I've created the skincare routine everybody (girl or guy!) should be following, and the order in which it should be done. Take care of your skin while you're young, so it looks healthier when you are older.
1. Makeup Remover
Leaving on old mascara can lead to styes and wearing face makeup all day can clog your pores. Thoroughly remove makeup with a makeup remover before washing your face because even face wash can't take it all off.
2. Face Wash
THIS DOES NOT MEAN BODY WASH. The skin on our face is very thin and sensitive, and bar soaps or body wash are too harsh for it. Invest in a facial cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type and use it both morning and night.
3. Toner
Toners help to remove any leftover makeup, oil, or other junk that was clogging your pores before washing your face. They also help to nourish and soothe the skin after its been cleansed.
4. Moisturizer
Again, this is NOT BODY LOTION. For the same reasons we shouldn't be using body wash on our face, we shouldn't be using body lotion either. There are hundreds of moisturizers to choose from, so there is one that will work for your complexion.
5. Under-Eye Cream
College is the perfect time to start caring for your under-eyes. There are inexpensive creams that help dark circles or fighting future wrinkles that is perfect for eye cream beginners. All those all-nighters looking at the computer screen really takes a toll on the eyes.
6. Rosewater Spray
Rosewater spray helps to even out redness in the skin, perfect for my fellow Irish girls
7. Mark Treatment
A salicylic acid mark treatment helps to fight pimples or scarring from old ones as you sleep at night
Of course, having healthy skin begins with how you eat, how much water you drink, and how much sleep you get, but these steps will help give your skin an extra boost.
