Cosmetic routine: everything you need to know

A cosmetic routine aims to keep the skin healthy and free of blemishes. What does it consist of? What care should I include? In this space we detail everything you should take into account.

Most women worry about taking care of their skin. So maintaining a cosmetic routine becomes quite a feat. To carry it out, products with special characteristics that help simplify skin care are often preferred.

However, it is important to consider other care, which also includes care of the neck area and neckline. What are the factors that cause skin aggressions? Why is it so important to follow a cosmetic routine? Below we detail it.

Factors that cause skin aggressions

Every day, the skin is exposed to a large number of factors that can cause aggression. Even over time, this influences the appearance of signs of aging. According to a publication in Dermato-Endocrinology , these factors include:

• Sunlight and blue light from electronic device screens. Both are associated with the appearance of blemishes and blemishes.
• Cigarette smoking. It can alter the tone of the skin towards a grayish color.
• Sleep bad. It is related to the presence of dark circles, puffy eyes and increased paleness.
• Stress. It affects skin tone, worsens skin diseases and contributes to premature aging.
• Extreme temperatures. It produces alterations in the production of the skin’s natural oils, increasing dryness.
• Pollution. It clogs the pores and produces oxidative stress, which manifests itself in wrinkles and blemishes.

Sun exposure, tobacco use, stress and other factors can cause skin aggressions.

Cosmetic routine: less is more

It is good to bear in mind that in the cosmetic routine the philosophy of “less is more” is applied . The simpler the skincare is, the easier it is to maintain it over time and find a suitable time of day to carry it out. 

On the other hand, using many products can increase the risk of skin sensitivity or allergies. Thus, it is enough to choose the appropriate options according to the characteristics of the skin and its needs. In case of doubts, it is advisable to consult the dermatologist.

Steps to cosmetic routine

The objective of the cosmetic routine is to contribute to the beautification of the skin, while reducing the risk of premature aging. For this, three basic steps are recommended that can be applied during the day. Put them into practice!

Cleaning

The ideal is to do it in the morning and at night. You can use a cleansing lotion or micellar water specific for sensitive or oily skin . With the vehicle that best fits us (gel, water, milk, etc.). You can use, if required, a cotton ball, or simply use the fingertips, without causing too much friction on the skin.

Products like lotions and micellar water can be helpful in cleaning the skin.

Hydration

After cleaning, the skin must be hydrated. This step is essential, since the adequate level of water must be maintained so that the skin maintains its barrier function and elasticity. This step must conform to what the skin requires, according to its characteristics.

Products with Vitamin C or creams containing hyaluronic acid can be used as evidenced in the 2014 publication in  The Journal of Clinical and aesthetic Dermatology . In addition, to be effective, it is essential to do it after doing a proper cleaning.

Solar protection

Very important to avoid future tissue damage, annoying spots or simply skin aging. In fact, no one should leave the home without first applying a good sunscreen, with an SPF of at least 30. Sun exposure is one of the factors that most deteriorates the skin. Therefore, it is essential to protect yourself from an early age.

Other recommendations for the cosmetic routine

There are other simple steps to complement the basic steps of the cosmetic routine. Regarding this, it is advisable to pay attention to the care that is carried out at night. Facial cleansing is recommended, to remove dirt from the skin and makeup residues that may remain from the day.

After cleaning, the next thing is to add a product that contains retinol or AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids), which have a slight peeling effect . It can also be a product with antioxidants (like Vitamin C, for example).

The application of a night cream can complement the cosmetic routine to keep the skin young and protected.

Weekly exfoliation

To avoid causing aggressions to the skin, the ideal is to perform a peel every 7 or 14 days. This treatment is intended to help shed dead cells that are not naturally removed. After finishing its application, it is good to use a mask with a nourishing or calming effect.

Annual dermatological control

Perform a control with the dermatologist to control nevi, sun spots or any other skin involvement. This can be done with an annual consultation with the professional. It goes without saying that these preventive measures are also important.

The best skincare routine is one that preserves the skin in good condition, maintains its natural hydration and protects it from external aggressions.