routine

Everything You Need to Know Shopping for Skin Care.

Beauty

SkinCare, SkinCare, SkinCare!!! It is so important to take care of the skin. It is the first sign of aging and when you don’t take care of it your skin can age fast. Creating a skincare routine is an awesome way to hydrate, nourish, and maintain healthy-looking skin. When you let your skin run its course it can look dull, oily and acne covered! It is important to get a feel for everything on the market and understand the benefits of products and how they can be better for you.

Before you buy any new products, it is important to know your skin type. Knowing your skin type will help you determine which products will work best for you and help control your problem areas. Products usually state the specific kind of skin they are designed to treat. There are 4 common skin types. Normal, oily, dry, and combination skin. In my case I have combination skin. Let’s explore what each of these skin types means…

Normal: A normal skin type means that your skin is balanced and there is little to no variation of oily or dryness. Normal skin usually looks very smooth with no pores or imperfections. It is well-hydrated in all areas and is not sensitive.

Oily: Oily skin occurs when there is an overproduction of sebum which produces oil. Oily skin usually is paired with visible pores or enlarged pores as well as a shiny covering. Oily skin is more prone to get acne of all kinds (blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules).

Dry: Dry skin doesn’t produce enough sebum which provides that glossy shine. It also doesn’t retain enough water to keep the skin hydrated. Dry skin may appear to be flaky, cracked or rough.

Combination: Combination skin is tricky to deal with because you are both oily and dry. Normally combination skin involves an oily T-zone (forehead and down the nose to the chin) and dryer/ normal cheeks. Having combination skin typically comes with enlarged pores being prominent in oily zones.

Once you have established your skin type it’s time to understand the products you can buy and what they are going to do for you. There are many variations and extras you can add to your skincare routine. If you’re looking for basic, a face wash and moisturizer can be enough. If you’re looking to take that extra step, then continue reading and find out!

Garnier Skin Active Micellar Water (Normal/ Sensitive skin)
Neutrogena Make-up wipes

Makeup Remover: Makeup remover comes in all different kinds. You can buy makeup wipes or a solution on a cotton pad. Makeup removers can be made with oil and others are oil-free. Makeup removers can also be found naturally, Coconut oil, olive oil, or Vaseline will also remove makeup. This is an important step as it takes off the first layer covering your skin. Washing away the makeup from the day.

Cleanser:  Cleansers are used typically after make-up remover to make sure your skin is clean and refreshed. The cleanser’s job is also to remove excess sebum, dirt, and oils from the day unclogging your pores and preventing acne.

Exfoliator: Exfoliating is a good technique to use every once in a while, to get that deep clean. It is recommended to do it 2-3 times per week. Exfoliating will dive deeper into your skin cells and unclog pores preventing acne from emerging. Be careful with your skin try to find an exfoliator that is still gentle as some exfoliators can tear or scratch your skin leaving permanent damage.

Toner: Toner is another trick to make sure your skin is clean. It will remove dirt, makeup, and some oils. Toner is super important for those will oily/ combination skin as it will help balance your PH levels and help oil production preventing acne. Try to avoid toners that contain alcohol as they can be super drying.

Eye cream:  This product is extra! I enjoy using eye cream at night as I have wrinkly under eyes. Eye cream’s main purpose is to reduce these fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Buy an eye cream that contains retinol and Vitamin A for a good boost.

Moisturizer:  One of the best and most important steps. If you want glowy and hydrated skin get a good moisturizer. This is one product I would spend an extra few dollars on. Moisturizer hydrates your skin and clears away dryness. It will help balance your skin and make you feel refreshed!

Pearl Essence Radiance Serum, ValJean Labs Clarify Serum (Vitamin A + Witch Hazel)

Serums: Another extra! Serums can dive deep into your skin and provide your skin with the active ingredients. Serums can provide hydration, brightening, and prevention of acne. They are 60% more powerful than using moisturizers alone.

Tarte- Maracuja Oil

Face Oil: This may seem quite intimidating rubbing oil on your face. Face oils contain antioxidants that treat your skin and maintain freshness and a glow. They can boost collagen and elasticity in your face. Face oils are usually light, and you only need a few drops so even if you have oily skin it will not provide a greasy feel. Common oils are jojoba oil, marula, tea tree.

N7 Protect and Perfect Mask and N7 Lift and Luminate

Face Mask: There are a variety of face masks on the market whether they be clay, sheet, or a DIY they can be relaxing and do wonders for your skin. Clay masks work great for those with oily skin as they remove a lot of dirt and oil but also hydrate your skin. Face masks generally state what it will help like brighten and strengthen, rejuvenating or hydrating. Doing a face mask once a week is super beneficial but as many as you’d like is fine as it doesn’t hurt your skin.

There are also some tools you can buy to better the result of your new and improved skincare routine. These are just extra as if you wash your hands your fingers will work just fine.

Foreo Luna Play Mini plus Mint

Facial Cleansing Brush: These brushes help clear out the sebum and dirt from your pores by gentle massage the face wash deeper into your skin. These brushes a little bit better at removing blockages and provide an overall clean of your face. Using this is circular motions and pressing a little bit to get the dirt underneath your skin.

Jade Roller: The jade roller helps reduce inflammation in the skin as well as puffiness. If you want extra action place your jade roller in the freezer to have a nice cool roller in the morning. Jade rollers also enhance blood circulation which tightens your pores and reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

Blackhead extractor: I do not generally have a lot of love for this product. Many people do use these and yes, they do extract blackheads, but you must be very careful while using them. If you do not use them properly, they can cause serious damage and scarring. So, I recommend watching a video on how to properly use it to be sure you’re treating your skin with care.

I have learned some tips when it comes to shopping for new skincare products. There are many things you can do to try new things at a low cost. I have also learned some life lessons about shopping skincare without a budget or thinking before purchasing.

Tip #1: Head to Sephora.

  • Sephora is a wonderful store filled with all the exciting and beautiful skincare products. You can browse the high-end products and get a feel for the price range. When I go to Sephora and I want to try new products I shop around the cash line up. Around the cash is small products almost tester size. I usually invest in three or four different products and try them for a week on my skin and see how it reacts this way I know if it’s worth the investment.

Tip #2 While at Sephora!

  • Another important thing to know about Sephora is if you become a beauty insider you can collect points that ultimately lead you to get to choose products in the little glass box at the front! Since I buy my make-up here gathering points is super easy. Usually I will pick the skincare products and test them out. Also, sometimes they have samples at the cash don’t be afraid to ask your cashier for a free sample!

Tip #3 Ask for Help

  • In your local drug store or beauty store in the beauty section/ skincare section is a person who has been trained about skincare don’t be afraid to ask for pointers if you are feeling lost, confused, or overwhelmed by all the products.

Tip #4 Do Some Research

  • When I was first starting I did quite a bit of research as I didn’t want to blow all my money on a product that didn’t work. I explored YouTube and blogs and found a girl who explained her skin and it matched my own. I started looking at the products she used and narrowing down what I wanted to start with. Her videos provided me with some of my staple skincare routine items.

Tip #5 Read Ingredients

  • I know this is sometimes a daunting task but reading the ingredients can be super important. I know it is hard to always buy super clean products on a budget but make sure what is in each product is not going to harm or leave permanent damage is important for your health.

Tip #6 Don’t Impulse Buy

  • Try to plan out what you need and want before shopping. This prevents you from buying extras or products outside your bu

Tip #7 Try a Box

  • There are many skincare/ makeup boxes on the market! They hold very popular and expensive products and they send them full size. The box is worth the price as you get your money’s worth of cool products. If your experimenting and can afford to try a box (FabFitFun, Boxy charm, IPSY) then I recommend this!

8 Tips to Boost your Night Time Routine

Wellness

The end of the day comes with big yawns and is a time for comfortable clothing. It is important to still make sure that you are providing your body with relaxation and preparing it for another day. These 10 tips have provided me with more energy and relaxation throughout the night.

  1. Take 10 to 15 Minutes to Stretch.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Stretching is important at the end of the day for everyone. Whether you are stuck at a desk all day or you stand throughout the day, a good stretch will provide your body with some relief. Stretching not only increases your flexibility but can help reverse poor posture that may ensue during your day to day activities.  Stretching is also a great way to calm your mind and reduce stress. There are many ways to stretch. Some people may partake in a yoga class or do yoga at home. Another way is to start at your head and stretch your body until you reach your toes. 10 to 15 minutes of stretching can be in front of the tv or be incorporated when making dinner which makes it easier for all of our busy lives.

2. Have Some Chamomile Tea

 Have some chamomile tea to help wind down at night, drinking it 30 minutes before bedtime is when it will have the best effects. Chamomile tea can help reduce inflammation and ease pain. This will help your body settle and get ready for rest. Chamomile tea has also been known to decrease anxiety which can allow a person to better relax. This tea has also been known to help put people to sleep with its apigenin component. It is a mild sleep enhancer that creates a better sleep and calming effect.

3. Wash your Face.

The day is dirty. All-day you have been out in the world and have encountered so many things. Ladies we all know that sleeping in make-up is a major cause of clogged and dirty pores. Even if you do not have the energy to wash your face entirely my secret tip is storing make-up wipes beside my bed to ensure even on those long nights out that I can wipe off my face. Washing your face with a gentle cleanser will manage oils and reduce clogged pores ensuring brighter skin for the morning.

4. Lay out your Clothes

Photo by Ylanite Koppens on Pexels.com

Deciding what you are going to wear in the morning saves major time. I know this does not seem like a game-changer but believe me… When I take the little extra time to lay out my clothes, I not only pick something nicer, but I choose accessories and look and feel better. Do you ever get that feeling in the morning where all you want is to stay in your pyjamas? If you decide your outfit while you are refreshed it will save you time, provide you with motivation and fewer decisions when you are foggy in the morning.

5. Take Time for Yourself

Although you have been at work all day and you want to come home and spend time with whoever is waiting for you it is still important that you find time in your evening for some self-care. Having at least 20 minutes to yourself is a super important piece to making sure you become relaxed and happier. Whether you have a bath, do a face mask, go for a walk, or read a book anything that you treat yourself to and take care of yourself will benefit your body and mind. It is not selfish to take time for you!

6. Turn off the Electronics

 At least 2-3 times a week it is good to have a night of digital detox. I have found this very helpful for not only my mind but for fostering relationships. Especially at night time, this becomes extremely important. The blue light emitted from these devices can affect your sleep patterns. The body may begin producing less melatonin (the hormone that regulates sleep) which creates a worse sleep or no sleep at all. Another reason for a digital detox is to take a break from your friend’s posts or the tasty chef cooking videos! I assure you they will be there when you are back.

7. Gratitude Journal

A gratitude journal is a place where you can release your thoughts from the day and de-stress. Not only can you write down everything on your mind it provides you a place to write down 3 things you are grateful for each day even if it is just getting into your cozy bed. This journal also lets you write down all your thoughts before you hit the pillow allowing your brain to not worry or focus too heavily on the stresses of today or tomorrow. Having a journal lets you stray away from electronics.

8. Turn on your Aromatherapy

The healing powers of aromatherapy can do wonders for your sleep. It will destress your body as you relax and unwind. Relax with the scent of lavender in your room a natural way to calm your mind. If you feel stuffed up at night diffuse some peppermint oil and allow your nose to breathe freely. If you don’t have a diffuser no problem! Put a few drops in your hands and take a few deep breaths or mix water and oils in spray bottle and mist over your bed.

I hope a few of these tips can be incorporated into your daily night time routine! Let me know if any of these tips end up working for you in the comments.