How to Apply Facial Care Products

Many of us have a collection of facial products sitting in our bathroom. This collection may include sunscreen, toner, acne medication, cleanser, moisturizer, etc. What some people don't know is that there is a specific order in which we should apply these products.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Your favorite facial products
• Cotton balls or makeup remover pads

1. Start with your cleanser. This can be a bottled cleanser or a bar of facial soap. It is recommended that you don't use regular bar soap, since that can dry your skin. This step will remove the dirt and oil on your face. Those with oily skin will normally do this twice a day.

2. Apply your toner/astringent. Typically, an astringent is more potent than a toner and will contain more alcohol. Astringents are more useful for oily skin. A soft cotton ball or a make-up remover pad can be used for this step. The toner/astringent will remove the remaining residue left behind by the cleanser. It will also remove any makeup, oil and dirt which the cleanser may have missed. The right toner can be beneficial in restoring the pH balance of your skin and preparing it for the rest of your skin care routine. If you have sensitive skin or if your skin is prone to drying, make sure you use an alcohol-free product.

3. The next step is to apply any acne creme or skin care medication you may have. This product usually contains Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic acid.

4. This step is when you moisturize and/or apply your sunscreen. Apply your lotion first. Wait a few minutes to allow it to soak into your skin and then apply your sunscreen. As an alternative, you may want to use a face lotion with sunscreen already included.

Tips & Warnings

• After cleansing, pat your skin dry, instead of rubbing it. This reduces irritation.
• Don't be afraid to use a light moisturizer even if you have oily skin. The oil in our skin does not actually hydrate our skin so the skin needs actual moisture to stay soft and healthy.
• If you would like to add a weekly exfoliation to your skin care routine, do it after you cleanse, but before you use your toner.
• If you are outdoors for long periods of time, reapply your sunscreen every few hours.
• Be careful using products with Benzoyl Peroxide - these products can bleach fabric.

[vikki9]

on 7/2/2008 Thank you for this article. No more willy-nilly for me! *****

[Ladybugblue]

on 7/1/2008 Thanks for the good tips. People don't realize how important it is and how it will make you age better.