How to Start a Skin Care Routine

Developing a skin care routine improves the look and maintenance of your skin, your body's largest organ. Besides keeping you looking great, caring for the skin is a health issue, and one that can prevent signs of aging. Read on to learn how to start a skin care routine that keeps you looking and feeling great for years to come.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Know your skin type. Developing a skin care routine is completely dependent on oily, normal/combination, dry, sensitive or even sun-damaged skin. There are many online resources, including helpful quizzes, that allow you to understand which type of skin you have.
2. Cleanse well. The trick is finding a cleanser that works well for your skin. Once you have found one you love, stick with it. They can be tough to find. Liquid facial cleansers tend to work best. Shy away from bar soaps for your face; they are drying, and aren't designed to handle the delicacy of facial skin.
3. Exfoliate. Many people miss this step in their daily skin care routine, but it's an important step in refreshing the skin as it scrubs away the dead skin cells that can cause pore clogging, dry skin and even acne. For the cheapest, do-it-at-home fix, find a scrub at your drug store that includes exfoliating beads or particles. Exfoliate just once a week.
4. Skip using a toner. Some people swear by them, but many experts feel that a good cleanser should remove all remaining traces of oil, makeup and dirt. A toner isn't necessary, but if you really like yours, stick with it.
5. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. No matter what your skin type, it should be moisturized. Even oily skin can benefit from an oil-free moisturizer. The face and body should be moisturized, but special formulas should be used for the face. Your skin will indicate how often you need to complete this step. If it feels tight/dry, it needs a drink. Don't over-moisturize; it can lead to clogged pores.
6. Apply sunscreen. Dermatologists agree that sunscreen is the most important aspect of your skin care regimen. Choose a daily moisturizer with UV protection and get two benefits in one. Avoid moisturizers with sunscreen built in at night, as the ingredients aren't meant to be used 24/7.

Tips & Warnings

• Never wash the face with hot or cold water. Luke warm is best. Drastic temperatures can lead to broken capillaries.
• Don't cleanse the face too much. Once a day, preferably at night, is usually enough. Many people find they can minimize with a splash of water to the face in the morning.