The perfect skin routine – Yes, it exists. (And yes, it’s within reach)

Most of us strive to achieve healthy, glowing skin, but with so many products and techniques on the market, it can be challenging to know where to start. And it goes without saying – Skins differ vastly in tone, texture, and sensitivity. Age and genetics also play a role. So, there is no one size fits all solution or one stock-standard routine, but there are certain principles that will you find what works for your specific skin needs. That’s why I’ve put together some general guidelines to help you achieve the perfect skin routine for YOU and maintain healthy, happy and glowing skin.

Here’s how to catch this unicorn in three (not so difficult steps): 

1.  First and foremost, it's important to use quality active ingredients in your skincare products. These ingredients have a tangible effect on your skin, and they should be carefully chosen based on your skin type and concerns. Some examples of active ingredients include vitamin C for brightening and evening out skin tone, retinol for improving the appearance of fine lines and acne, and glycolic acid for exfoliating and smoothing the skin.
2. Secondly, once you’ve established which products suit your skin needs,  it's important to be consistent with your skincare routine. This means using your products regularly, at the same times each day, and not skipping steps or swapping out products too frequently. Your skin needs time to adjust to new products, so it's best to introduce them gradually and give them a chance to work.
3. Lastly, don’t underestimate expert advice. Skincare professionals can evaluate your skin and make personalised recommendations. These professionals have the training and experience to identify specific skin concerns and recommend the most effective treatments. Regular in-salon treatments also make a massive difference in skin health and radiance. 

Now, let's go into more detail about each of these key components of the perfect skin routine.

When it comes to skincare products, the active ingredients change skin at a molecular level, working to create long-term effects. These ingredients are specifically targeted to address your skin concerns, whether acne, ageing, uneven skin tone, scarring, pigmentation, or another condition. For example, Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten and even out skin tone and protects the skin from environmental damage. It can be found in serums and other topical products and is typically most effective when used in a concentration of at least 10%. (One of my absolute favourite Vitamin C products is this Dermaceutic TrivitaC serum, specifically formulated with 30% vitamin C).  

Everyone who knows me knows I love Retinol. A form of vitamin A, retinol is a popular active ingredient for improving the appearance of fine lines and acne. It works by increasing cell turnover, which helps to smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of blemishes. It can be found in various skincare products, including creams and serums, and is especially popular in acne treatments. An easy introduction to retinol is Youth Lab’s retinol reboot range.

Salicylic acid is another firm-favourite active. This beta hydroxy acid (BHA) is a popular choice for exfoliating the skin and improving its texture and tone. It works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be sloughed off and revealing the healthy, glowing skin underneath. It has direct activity as an anti-inflammatory and topical antibacterial agent due to its ability to promote exfoliation. (An easy way to add this into your routine is with pHformula’s DERMABRASION cream)

It's important to note that not all active ingredients are suitable for all skin types, and some can even be irritating or drying. That's why it's important to choose your products carefully and start with lower concentrations if you're unsure how your skin will react. Consulting a professional provides real value in this sense. 

Consistency

In order to see results from your skincare routine, it’s important to be consistent with your product use. This means using your products as directed and making an effort to stick to a routine every day and night. Think of it as a bank account – Regular doses of active ingredients are like depositing into a bank account. (Withdrawals happen in the form of ageing, pollution, free radicals and sun damage). But consistent deposits ensure your balance is always positive. It can be helpful to set aside specific times of day for your skincare routine, such as after you shower in the morning and before bed at night. This can help to make the process feel more routine and can also make it easier to remember to use your products consistently. Another way to ensure you stick to your routine is to make it as uncomplicated as possible. Life is busy, and when your skin routine takes longer than 5 minutes, it’s easier to skip it. 

Value of Expert Advice

While it’s great to do your own research and make informed decisions about your skincare routine, seeking out expert advice is often a game-changer for your skin. If you’re dealing with specific skin concerns, like acne, rosacea, or pigmentation, professional help might be just the bit of magic you need. Skincare professionals can help you identify potential triggers and recommend products and techniques that can help improve your skin's appearance and health.  Even if you don’t have any specific concerns, consulting with a skin care professional can be a helpful way to ensure that you’re using the right products for your skin type and goals. They can also provide personalised recommendations for a skincare routine that is tailored to your needs. (I’ve been working in the skincare industry for almost two decades, and my absolute passion is to transform skin, so my clients know what healthy skin is meant to feel like.

 You can make an appointment and visit me at the Skin Suite for an in-depth evaluation and recommendations)

To summarise, finding the right products for your skin type and concerns is key, and it may take some trial and error to find the perfect routine for you. Don't be afraid to consult a skin care professional for personalized recommendations. With a little patience and consistency, you can create a skincare routine that helps you achieve the healthy, glowing skin of your dreams. 

Last but not least, the final shiny superstar for every perfect skincare routine? A good quality, broad-spectrum SPF.