Hey Guys!
It's been a while and I finally decided I have to post something and now that I am completely free from school, I though "Why not do a post dedicated to skincare?" Especially because I have been getting so many questions on my Ask.fm page about this topic.
Let's jump right into it!
What is the proper skincare routine?
Everyone knows about the basic 'CTM' (Cleansing, Toning and Moisturizing) routine, but this is not enough for our skin. It's necessary to use at least a couple more products to actually make your skin better.
Here are the steps and products (I personally use) for the road to better skin-
Day Time Routine-
1. Cleanse- Wash your face in the morning with your favourite face wash. The best is to let your face air dry, but honestly who has the time for that? So simply dab the towel to dry your face, and remember dab, not rub. Rubbing can damage the skin and cause wrinkles.
2. Toning- This step is not that important in the morning, but if you want to, then go ahead. Simply dampen your cotton with the toner, drag it along your face and let it sit (you can wash it off if you want to).
3. Moisturizing- I think this is the most important step of the routine. Bringing moisture to your face is so important because it helps the skin be plump, soft and makes it look youthful!
4. Sunblock- This step is just as important as moisturizing. It is so important to use sunblock during the day as it helps block the harmful UV rays, it prevents skin cancer and prevents tanning.
-Now, an important thing to remember is reapplying your sunblock every 2 hours! Yes, I know this is hard to do, but the effects of sunblock fades away after 2 hours and then you are prone to die of skin cancer.
-Another thing to keep in mind is that the sun's rays are the worst from 11 am- 4 pm.
- The minimum amount SPF required is SPF 20.
5. Lip Balm- Now, don't you forget your lips! Your lips have the thinnest layer of skin and they need to be protected, so use a good lip balm with SPF.
Night Time Routine
1. Cleansing- If you are an avid make up wearer/user you have to remove it all! Yes, I get lazy and I am super guilty of sleeping with my make up on! But after I started to remove it, my skin felt so much better!
- I use wet wipes to clean my make up. Usually two are enough to get off everything. I prefer to use the baby wipes as they are gentle and get everything off!
-Lately I've been using this cleansing thing from Neutrogena. It removes everything, like everything!! No need to use the wipes. It's just like the clairsonic, but without the brush heads. This product has really helped me so much with getting my skin in better condition!
2. Exfoliation- It is important to exfoliate once or twice every week (depending on how much dead skin you have) to have smooth skin.
I often notice that people don't know the proper way to exfoliate and this can lead to skin damage!
The proper way is to use a scrub and gently massage the product into your face using your fingers, rubbing in circles, for soft skin. The following are the scrubs I use-
3. Toning- This is important to do at night! A toner helps balance the pH levels of your skin.
-I use the Clinique toner in 'Step 2' for dry skin. Although I have combination skin, this has worked so well for me!
.
4. Moisturizing- So super important at night! Night is when the skin rejuvenates itself and moisture is super important for that.
It helps repair the skin and makes it look plump and fresh.
Using a simple moisturizer for the night time is not enough.
There are many different products that provide moisture for our skin, such as-
-Facial Freshener: You are supposed to use this after cleansing and toning. Use it how you would a toner, just don't wash it off.
-Essence: This is a miracle worker and a complete game changer! Just take some in your palms, rub it in your palms and pat it on the face.
-Emulsion: This is like a thin cream. It provides really good moisture and makes your skin soft! Apply it just like you would essence.
-Enriched Cream/ Moisturizer: Finally you can apply your moisturizer! Please do not drag the product on your skin, this can cause wrinkles. Just pat it or gently rub it in.-Eye Cream: Eye cream is important, and no you cannot use regular cream for your under eyes! The skin is thinner and requires a specific product. To apply, simply pat it in using your ring finger (as it is the most gentle finger),avoid dragging as you might get wrinkles.
5. Lip Balm- Yes, lip balm, again. Take care of your lips people! They need love too. Fun fact- Your lips show signs of aging before anything else, so please keep them moisturized.Some of my favourite Lip balms are-
Acne, Products to use and Masks for Acne
What is Acne? What are the causes?
Acne, medically known as Acne Vulgaris, is a skin disease that involves the oil glands at the base of hair follicles. It commonly occurs during puberty when the sebaceous (oil) glands come to life - the glands are stimulated by male hormones produced by the adrenal glands of both males and females
There are so many people suffering from acne and some common causes for acne are-
1. Hormonal- This is the probably the most common cause for acne. Teenagers, people in their early 20's and children can be suffering with hormonal imbalances causing the acne.
2. Genetics- They play an important role in the composition of your skin and if anyone in your family suffered from acne in the past, the chances are, you will too.
3. Bacteria- Bacteria build up from many things can cause an outburst. If you have a small pimple and it gets infected, that can cause acne. It's hard to get rid of such acne as the bacteria feeds on the sebum and if there is over production of sebum, the acne will get worse. This kind of acne will continue to return as long as it can make a home in your body.
4. Cosmetic Allergy- If you use a new product and break out, it is most likely that you are allergic to something in it. Be it sunblock or make up, if it clogs your pores, it will cause acne.
-Other than this, hygiene can also be a problem. Such as- not cleaning your make up off, not cleaning your phone, not changing your covers, etc.
5. Food Related Allergy- Food allergies may not be noticeable and you may brush them off, but in the acne department, they are really bad. Allergies can trigger acne and its not pretty. Food sensitivities an cause acne too, but it shouldn't be very severe.
-Fun fact- Lactose can cause acne, so don't over do it with the dairy products.
Products that help with acne-
Products that contain acidic properties are really good to use for acne. It helps kill the bacteria and cleanses all the dirt.
OTC Products or 'Over-The-Counter' products can be bought without a doctor's prescription and are applied on the skin, unlike medicines you intake, which need prescriptions.
(These products are only for mild acne and I will refrain from talking about prescription medicine as I am not a professional.)
The common acids you will find in OTC products are-
1. Resorcinol- Used for dandruff, eczema and psoriasis.
2. Benzoyl Peroxide- A common acid used in acne products, it works as a peeling agent and helps break down acne.
3. Salicylic Acid- The most common and very effective one! Helps break down black/white heads, reduces shedding of cells and helps with inflammation.
4. Vitamin C- A common household vitamin found in lemon and honey. Helps in fading acne scars.
5. Retin-A- Helps unplug blocked pores, it is also used for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia. This can be used as a chemical peal as well.
1. Honey, Lemon and Sugar Scrub- Simply cut a lemon in half, dip it in honey, sprinkle sugar and rub it on your skin. It works wonders! Benefits:
-Reduces the tan
-Brightens the face
-Lightens the blackheads
-Moisturizing
-Easy to make
-Tastes Great :)
2. Multani Mitti Pace Pack- This method is very old and common. Multani mitti contains a high level of magnesium chloride which helps to reduce acne. It is easily available in the market and its really cheap!
Just mix it with a little water or rose water (great for oily skin) or add milk and almond paste (great for dry skin). Benefits:
- Helps with acne
- Exfoliates
- Makes your face glow
- Organic
- Fades acne scars
3. Sheet Masks- These have been all the rage in the skincare world lately. These have taken the world by storm and I can totally see why! These masks are cheap and so helpful. Benefits:
- Brightening
- Moisturizing
- Makes skin glow
- Easy to use
- Hydrates the skin
- And fun to scare people with!
Some of the best brands are- Etude House, TonyMoly, Skin Food, Missha. I personally prefer the Korean or Asian brands for sheet masks as they give the best results.
NOTE: In case you don't find sheet masks, the easy thing to do is using some essence, dipping cotton in it and putting it over your face. In Hyderabad you can find it in Kathiawar Stores.
4. Rice Water- You must be wondering 'What? Rice water? What is that?' Rice water is the most easily available and beneficial thing. Go to your kitchen, get some rice, wash and drain a once or twice and when the water is a little milky, you can just splash and pat it on your face or use it as a mask by dipping cotton in it or make a scrub out of it. You can also use it on your hair! Benefits:
- Natural toner
- Keeps hair strong and healthy
- Reduces the size of pores
- Good cleanser
5. Turmeric or Haldi- Yes, I am talking about haldi that we use in cooking. Haldi is used for ages as an acne treatment.
Just mix the haldi powder with rice flour or chick pea flour, yogurt or milk (for oily skin) or coconut oil or olive oil (for dry skin), honey and some lemon. Benefits:
- Brightening
- Fights acne
- Fades acne scars
- Exfoliates
- Makes your face glow.
NOTE: Before you use it, give a patch test as you could be allergic. Also, do this mask 2-3 days before an event (if any) as it can stain your skin!
FAQ-
1. How often to exfoliate?
A.Once or twice a week.
2. What age should I using skin care product?
A. It's best to start using them after you are a teenager, as this is the time when you really need help! But an intense one is not necessary till you turn 15 or 16.
3. What age should I start using Anti-Ageing products?
A. Its best to start when you turn 20. I know that's early, but the earlier, the better.
4. Is it okay to use make up over acne?
A. Yes, it is perfectly fine to do so, unless your dermatologist says otherwise. Just remember to take it all off before sleeping and let your skin breath. Also, if you have sensitive skin, you should stick to brands like clinique.
5. What kind of moisturizer should I use?
A. Oily Skin- Stay away form oily formulas and stick to gel.
Combination Skin- Better to stick to a gel formula.
Dry Skin- Something with a little oil, but not too much.
That was all. As usual, I wrote a lot! But recently I have really started to see a huge difference in my skin because of all the steps and products I've mentioned above.
One of the most important things to remember is to be consistent while following a routine. But, remember to change up your routine one in a while because once the skin is used to a particular routine, it can loose its effect.
Hope this is helpful to all you humans out there and I'll see you all next time!
Love
-Sam
It's been a while and I finally decided I have to post something and now that I am completely free from school, I though "Why not do a post dedicated to skincare?" Especially because I have been getting so many questions on my Ask.fm page about this topic.
Let's jump right into it!
What is the proper skincare routine?
Everyone knows about the basic 'CTM' (Cleansing, Toning and Moisturizing) routine, but this is not enough for our skin. It's necessary to use at least a couple more products to actually make your skin better.
Here are the steps and products (I personally use) for the road to better skin-
Day Time Routine-
1. Cleanse- Wash your face in the morning with your favourite face wash. The best is to let your face air dry, but honestly who has the time for that? So simply dab the towel to dry your face, and remember dab, not rub. Rubbing can damage the skin and cause wrinkles.
I really like this face wash as it gets everything off and doesn't dry my skin out.
2. Toning- This step is not that important in the morning, but if you want to, then go ahead. Simply dampen your cotton with the toner, drag it along your face and let it sit (you can wash it off if you want to).
3. Moisturizing- I think this is the most important step of the routine. Bringing moisture to your face is so important because it helps the skin be plump, soft and makes it look youthful!
I am currently using this and I really like it! Try it out, it's a good and cheap option. And it has SPF 25| PA+++, so I use this as my sunblock.
I am in love with this baby! This makes my skin so super soft. Totally recommend! Unfortunately this doesn't contain any SPF.
4. Sunblock- This step is just as important as moisturizing. It is so important to use sunblock during the day as it helps block the harmful UV rays, it prevents skin cancer and prevents tanning.
-Now, an important thing to remember is reapplying your sunblock every 2 hours! Yes, I know this is hard to do, but the effects of sunblock fades away after 2 hours and then you are prone to die of skin cancer.
-Another thing to keep in mind is that the sun's rays are the worst from 11 am- 4 pm.
- The minimum amount SPF required is SPF 20.
I love this thing. It's really good for the face and body!
5. Lip Balm- Now, don't you forget your lips! Your lips have the thinnest layer of skin and they need to be protected, so use a good lip balm with SPF.
Night Time Routine
1. Cleansing- If you are an avid make up wearer/user you have to remove it all! Yes, I get lazy and I am super guilty of sleeping with my make up on! But after I started to remove it, my skin felt so much better!
- I use wet wipes to clean my make up. Usually two are enough to get off everything. I prefer to use the baby wipes as they are gentle and get everything off!
-Lately I've been using this cleansing thing from Neutrogena. It removes everything, like everything!! No need to use the wipes. It's just like the clairsonic, but without the brush heads. This product has really helped me so much with getting my skin in better condition!
I often notice that people don't know the proper way to exfoliate and this can lead to skin damage!
The proper way is to use a scrub and gently massage the product into your face using your fingers, rubbing in circles, for soft skin. The following are the scrubs I use-
This is a harsher scrub.
This is a better option for people with sensitive skin
3. Toning- This is important to do at night! A toner helps balance the pH levels of your skin.
-I use the Clinique toner in 'Step 2' for dry skin. Although I have combination skin, this has worked so well for me!
. It helps repair the skin and makes it look plump and fresh.
Using a simple moisturizer for the night time is not enough.
There are many different products that provide moisture for our skin, such as-
-Facial Freshener: You are supposed to use this after cleansing and toning. Use it how you would a toner, just don't wash it off.
-Essence: This is a miracle worker and a complete game changer! Just take some in your palms, rub it in your palms and pat it on the face.
-Emulsion: This is like a thin cream. It provides really good moisture and makes your skin soft! Apply it just like you would essence.
-Enriched Cream/ Moisturizer: Finally you can apply your moisturizer! Please do not drag the product on your skin, this can cause wrinkles. Just pat it or gently rub it in.-Eye Cream: Eye cream is important, and no you cannot use regular cream for your under eyes! The skin is thinner and requires a specific product. To apply, simply pat it in using your ring finger (as it is the most gentle finger),avoid dragging as you might get wrinkles.
I personally follow all these steps and use all these products. This is also the very brand and line I use. It is the Collagen Moistfull Skin Care Kit from Etude House (South Korean Brand).
NOTE: Use all of the products and in this particular order.
5. Lip Balm- Yes, lip balm, again. Take care of your lips people! They need love too. Fun fact- Your lips show signs of aging before anything else, so please keep them moisturized.Some of my favourite Lip balms are-
Acne, Products to use and Masks for Acne
What is Acne? What are the causes?
Acne, medically known as Acne Vulgaris, is a skin disease that involves the oil glands at the base of hair follicles. It commonly occurs during puberty when the sebaceous (oil) glands come to life - the glands are stimulated by male hormones produced by the adrenal glands of both males and females
There are so many people suffering from acne and some common causes for acne are-
1. Hormonal- This is the probably the most common cause for acne. Teenagers, people in their early 20's and children can be suffering with hormonal imbalances causing the acne.
2. Genetics- They play an important role in the composition of your skin and if anyone in your family suffered from acne in the past, the chances are, you will too.
3. Bacteria- Bacteria build up from many things can cause an outburst. If you have a small pimple and it gets infected, that can cause acne. It's hard to get rid of such acne as the bacteria feeds on the sebum and if there is over production of sebum, the acne will get worse. This kind of acne will continue to return as long as it can make a home in your body.
4. Cosmetic Allergy- If you use a new product and break out, it is most likely that you are allergic to something in it. Be it sunblock or make up, if it clogs your pores, it will cause acne.
-Other than this, hygiene can also be a problem. Such as- not cleaning your make up off, not cleaning your phone, not changing your covers, etc.
5. Food Related Allergy- Food allergies may not be noticeable and you may brush them off, but in the acne department, they are really bad. Allergies can trigger acne and its not pretty. Food sensitivities an cause acne too, but it shouldn't be very severe.
-Fun fact- Lactose can cause acne, so don't over do it with the dairy products.
Products that help with acne-
Products that contain acidic properties are really good to use for acne. It helps kill the bacteria and cleanses all the dirt.
OTC Products or 'Over-The-Counter' products can be bought without a doctor's prescription and are applied on the skin, unlike medicines you intake, which need prescriptions.
(These products are only for mild acne and I will refrain from talking about prescription medicine as I am not a professional.)
The common acids you will find in OTC products are-
1. Resorcinol- Used for dandruff, eczema and psoriasis.
2. Benzoyl Peroxide- A common acid used in acne products, it works as a peeling agent and helps break down acne.
3. Salicylic Acid- The most common and very effective one! Helps break down black/white heads, reduces shedding of cells and helps with inflammation.
4. Vitamin C- A common household vitamin found in lemon and honey. Helps in fading acne scars.
5. Retin-A- Helps unplug blocked pores, it is also used for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia. This can be used as a chemical peal as well.
Me, my mother and aunt all use these products when we have acne. They are great to prevent any developing pimples. Just put the cream on the spot and magically it will reduce, dry up ore disappear!
Some Home Remedies and Masks for good skin- 1. Honey, Lemon and Sugar Scrub- Simply cut a lemon in half, dip it in honey, sprinkle sugar and rub it on your skin. It works wonders! Benefits:
-Reduces the tan
-Brightens the face
-Lightens the blackheads
-Moisturizing
-Easy to make
-Tastes Great :)
2. Multani Mitti Pace Pack- This method is very old and common. Multani mitti contains a high level of magnesium chloride which helps to reduce acne. It is easily available in the market and its really cheap!
Just mix it with a little water or rose water (great for oily skin) or add milk and almond paste (great for dry skin). Benefits:
- Helps with acne
- Exfoliates
- Makes your face glow
- Organic
- Fades acne scars
3. Sheet Masks- These have been all the rage in the skincare world lately. These have taken the world by storm and I can totally see why! These masks are cheap and so helpful. Benefits:
- Brightening
- Moisturizing
- Makes skin glow
- Easy to use
- Hydrates the skin
- And fun to scare people with!
Some of the best brands are- Etude House, TonyMoly, Skin Food, Missha. I personally prefer the Korean or Asian brands for sheet masks as they give the best results.
NOTE: In case you don't find sheet masks, the easy thing to do is using some essence, dipping cotton in it and putting it over your face. In Hyderabad you can find it in Kathiawar Stores.
4. Rice Water- You must be wondering 'What? Rice water? What is that?' Rice water is the most easily available and beneficial thing. Go to your kitchen, get some rice, wash and drain a once or twice and when the water is a little milky, you can just splash and pat it on your face or use it as a mask by dipping cotton in it or make a scrub out of it. You can also use it on your hair! Benefits:
- Natural toner
- Keeps hair strong and healthy
- Reduces the size of pores
- Good cleanser
5. Turmeric or Haldi- Yes, I am talking about haldi that we use in cooking. Haldi is used for ages as an acne treatment.
Just mix the haldi powder with rice flour or chick pea flour, yogurt or milk (for oily skin) or coconut oil or olive oil (for dry skin), honey and some lemon. Benefits:
- Brightening
- Fights acne
- Fades acne scars
- Exfoliates
- Makes your face glow.
NOTE: Before you use it, give a patch test as you could be allergic. Also, do this mask 2-3 days before an event (if any) as it can stain your skin!
FAQ-
1. How often to exfoliate?
A.Once or twice a week.
2. What age should I using skin care product?
A. It's best to start using them after you are a teenager, as this is the time when you really need help! But an intense one is not necessary till you turn 15 or 16.
3. What age should I start using Anti-Ageing products?
A. Its best to start when you turn 20. I know that's early, but the earlier, the better.
4. Is it okay to use make up over acne?
A. Yes, it is perfectly fine to do so, unless your dermatologist says otherwise. Just remember to take it all off before sleeping and let your skin breath. Also, if you have sensitive skin, you should stick to brands like clinique.
5. What kind of moisturizer should I use?
A. Oily Skin- Stay away form oily formulas and stick to gel.
Combination Skin- Better to stick to a gel formula.
Dry Skin- Something with a little oil, but not too much.
That was all. As usual, I wrote a lot! But recently I have really started to see a huge difference in my skin because of all the steps and products I've mentioned above.
One of the most important things to remember is to be consistent while following a routine. But, remember to change up your routine one in a while because once the skin is used to a particular routine, it can loose its effect.
Hope this is helpful to all you humans out there and I'll see you all next time!
Love
-Sam
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