Skincare isn't just about using the right products - it's about knowing what works for your skin.
As part of our 'New Year, New Skin' campaign, we're on a mission to help you achieve your best skin! Whether you're a skincare newbie or someone who's been experimenting for years, understanding how to create a skincare routine tailored to your skin type and concerns can make all the difference. Heres Nurse Georgi's top tips on how to start building a skincare routine.
1. Know Your Skin Type
The first step in building a skincare routine is understanding your skin type. Everyone’s skin is unique, and knowing what type of skin you have will help you choose the right products. Here's a breakdown of the most common skin types and how to determine which one applies to you:
Normal Skin - Balanced, not too dry or oily. Minor imperfections and a smooth texture.
Oily Skin - Shiny, particularly around the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin). Prone to breakouts, clogged pores and acne.
Dry Skin - Feels tight, rough or flaky. Prone to redness, irritation or dullness.
Combination Skin - A mix of oily and dry areas. Often oily in the T-zone but dry or normal on the cheeks.
Sensitive Skin - Easily irritated by skincare products or environmental factors. May experience redness, burning or itching.
Once you know your skin type, you can select products that are best suited for your needs.
2. Start with the Basics - Cleanse, Moisturise and SPF
No matter your skin type, the foundation of any skincare routine should always include three essential steps: cleansing, moisturising and sun protection. These steps provide your skin with the basic care it needs every day.
Cleansing
Cleansing is essential to remove dirt, oil, makeup and pollutants that accumulate on your skin throughout the day. At our skincare clinic in Kent, we always recommend starting with an oil cleanse and following with a cleanser that suits your skin type.
For dry skin, opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
For oily or acne-prone skin, choose a foaming or gel-based cleanser that can help control excess oil production.
For sensitive skin, go for a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser to minimize irritation.
Moisturising
No matter your skin type, moisturising is key to maintaining a healthy skin barrier and preventing dryness or irritation. Even oily skin needs moisture, just be sure to select a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser. Those with dry skin should opt for richer, more nourishing formulas that hydrate deeply.
SPF
Daily sun protection is crucial for keeping your skin youthful and preventing skin conditions like sunburns, pigmentation, and premature aging. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 and apply it every morning (yes girls, even in winter).
3. Add Active Ingredients to Target Specific Concerns
Once you've mastered the basics of cleansing, moisturising and protecting your skin from the sun, you can start adding in active ingredients to address specific skin concerns. Active ingredients are powerful compounds that address specific issues like acne, pigmentation, aging, and more.
Some of the most common active ingredients include -
Retinoids (Retinol, Retinoid) - Good for wrinkles, fine lines and texture. Retinoids need to be added in very slowly, so start with a lower concentration and build up.
Vitamin C –- Vitamin C helps to even out skin tone, reduce pigmentation, and protect against oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
Hyaluronic Acid - A humectant that draws moisture into the skin, hyaluronic acid is excellent for providing hydration and plumping the skin.
Salicylic Acid - A type of beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), salicylic acid helps exfoliate the skin, clear pores, and reduce acne breakouts. It's particularly beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin.
Niacinamide - This form of Vitamin B3 is known for its ability to reduce inflammation, redness and hyperpigmentation while strengthening the skin barrier.
Introduce one active ingredient at a time, and give your skin time to adjust. When it comes to actives we always recommend investing in medical grade skincare - stay away from high street actives!
4. Build A Skincare Routine With Sorella
Building a personalised skincare routine can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially with the vast number of products and ingredients available. That’s where seeking professional advice can make a huge difference.
At our Kent skin clinic, Nurses Georgi and Danni provide expert skincare consultations to recommend products tailored specifically to you. You can also benefit from cutting-edge technology, like our Skin Scanner, which provides a detailed analysis of your skin's health.
Remember, consistency is key! Stick to your routine, be patient with the results, and don't be afraid to adjust as your skin's needs evolve. With the right combination of products and expert advice, you'll be well on your way to achieving your best skin yet!
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