It’s not always easy to determine which skincare products are right for you. Using wrong products can lead to breakouts or dryness.
A good way to avoid mistakes is to learn how to choose skincare products based on your skin type and specific concerns. You should also consider your budget.
Know Your Skin Type
The first step in choosing the right skincare products is knowing your skin type. Everyone’s skin is different, but most fall into one of four categories: oily, normal, dry or combination.
Oily skin is characterized by excess sebum production, often leading to breakouts. People with this skin type should look for non-comedogenic moisturizers and products that target shine control.
If your skin is prone to breaking out and feels tight or flaky, it’s probably dry. Those with this skin type typically drink plenty of water and should look for mild cleanser and lotions that are rich in nourishing ingredients like shea butter or hyaluronic acid. Sensitive skin is irritated easily by new products, foods and even the sun. This is a common skin condition that can be difficult to treat.
Identify Your Skin Concerns
There’s a lot to take into account when choosing skincare products. For starters, avoid products that promise instant results. Instead, evaluate how they perform over time and whether or not you see lasting results.
Additionally, avoid products that contain ingredients that may irritate or cause allergic reactions. These include fragrances, alcohol, and certain preservatives.
When evaluating the quality of skincare products, read the labels carefully. Pay particular attention to the order of ingredients and how they’re listed. The ingredients in a product are typically listed in descending order of concentration, with the highest amount of an ingredient appearing first. Also, look for a missing INCI name as this could indicate a lack of transparency.
Read the Labels Carefully
The more you know, the better choices you can make. Educating yourself about your skin type, conducting patch tests, seeking recommendations and considering your budget are all important steps to achieving glowing, healthy-looking skin.
The ingredients list on a skincare product can be cryptic and intimidating, but it’s worth checking them out. The good news is that you don’t need a PhD in chemistry to figure out what’s in your products: Manufacturers must follow a standard naming system, and they’ll often throw the consumer a bone by placing the common name of the ingredient in parentheses.
You should also beware of chemicals, such as parabens, phthalates and fragrance/perfume, that can disrupt the natural balance of your skin. It’s a great idea to use online databases that can assist you in researching ingredients and products.
Determine Your Budget
While you want to be sure to stick to a routine that fits your lifestyle, you also don’t need to splurge on high-end products. Many drugstore brands offer products that are formulated with high-quality ingredients.
When looking at an ingredients list, it can feel like you’re reading a foreign language. The good news is that there are resources available to help you decipher what the long string of unfamiliar words on the label actually mean.
While you may be tempted to purchase products that are popular on social media or get rave reviews from friends, be wary of hype. It is important to know your skin type, identify specific concerns, patch test new products, and consider professional advice when choosing skincare products. This ensures you’ll get the results you desire while avoiding any potential adverse reactions.
Adapt Your Routine to Fit Your Lifestyle
Whether you want to achieve silky-smooth texture or a radiant glow, the key is developing a rock-solid skincare routine. Start by knowing your skin type and identifying your skincare concerns. Then, select products that suit your unique needs. Popularity and packaging shouldn’t be deciding factors, as they may not fit your requirements.
Next, learn to read the ingredients list. This will help you avoid harmful chemicals and sift through the many options available. For example, if you have oily skin, look for products that contain a low concentration of salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to combat acne breakouts. If you are concerned about hyperpigmentation, opt for products containing Vitamin C to fade dark spots and brighten your complexion. Finally, be sure to incorporate a moisturizer into your routine to keep your skin hydrated.
