The Basics: Skincare Routine Steps in Order

Sometimes it's best to start at the start. Here we'll explore the basic steps of a skincare routine, to set a solid foundation. Whether you are teaching your teen or tween how to start their first skincare routine for young skin, or if you are just starting your own skincare regimen and need some structure.

Embarking on a skincare journey can seem daunting with the plethora of products and advice available. Yet, mastering a basic skincare routine is the foundation of achieving and maintaining healthy, radiant skin.

 

  If you're looking for an easy quickstart, the lilac + flint ESSENTIALS Skincare Kit simplifies this process, providing all the necessary steps for beginners and those refining their regimen in one simple universal skincare kit in a convenient travel set. So many of our clients have started here and then continued to enhance their skincare routine.

Here’s a straightforward guide to the daily and weekly steps for optimal skin health.

Daily Skincare Routine

1. Cleanse: Start and end your day by cleansing your face to remove impurities, excess oil, and makeup. A gentle cleanser ensures your skin is prepped for the subsequent products without stripping it of its natural oils.

2. Toner: After cleansing, apply a toner to help balance the skin's pH levels, refine pores, and prepare the skin to absorb the benefits of serums and moisturizers effectively. Damp skin absorbs products more efficiently than dry skin.

3. Serum: Serums are concentrated formulas designed to target specific skin concerns, such as hydration, aging, or dark spots. Apply your serum of choice, gently patting it onto the skin to ensure deep absorption. Stay tuned for info on how to make the most of this step at the end of this blog!

4. Moisturizer: Hydrate and lock in moisture with a cream suited to your skin type. Even oily skin needs moisturization; opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas. Dry skin will want heavier formulas or layering of different weights.

5. SPF: (Daytime Only) Protecting your skin from UV rays is crucial. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days, to prevent premature aging and skin damage.

Weekly Skincare Routine Enhancements

Ready to uplevel from the basics? Here are some ways to take it a step further!

• Double Cleansing: It's exactly what it sounds like - one cleanse to remove dirt, pollution, and makeup. Second cleanse to deep clean your pores. You can use the same cleanser for both cleanses or switch it up! 

• Exfoliation (2-3 times per week): Gently exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells, promoting a smoother, brighter complexion. Choose a physical or chemical exfoliant based on your skin's sensitivity and preference. 

• Serum Cycling and Layering: To maximize the benefits, consider cycling through different serums or layering them during your serum step, focusing on various skin needs such as hydration, repair, or brightening.

• Hydrating Mask: Apply a hydrating mask to deeply nourish and rejuvenate your skin, especially beneficial after a week of environmental exposure and stress.

• Pre-Cleansing Mask: Using a pre-cleansing oil to break down sweat and makeup, then washing it off with your first cleanse. 

• Facial (Once a Month): Treat yourself to a professional facial or a dedicated at-home facial session to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate, boosting your skincare routine's effectiveness.

Seasonal Adjustments

Your skin's needs can change with the seasons, requiring adjustments to your skincare routine, particularly your cleanser and moisturizer. In colder months, you may need a more hydrating cleanser and a richer moisturizer, whereas warmer weather calls for lighter formulations.

Keeping Your Routine Fresh

To prevent your skin from becoming too accustomed to certain products, especially serums, consider switching them once you finish a bottle. This is particularly relevant for brightening products, where alternating can help maintain your skin's responsiveness to the active ingredients.

The Lilac + Flint ESSENTIALS Skincare Kit offers a comprehensive solution for those establishing a skincare routine, ensuring each step is covered with quality, effective products. By incorporating these practices into your daily and weekly regimen, you’re not just caring for your skin today but investing in its long-term health and vitality.

And don't forget that skin care is self-care! Caring for yourself this way has benefits far beyond just glowing skin. The mental health morale boost is an immeasureable perk! 🩷