Building Up My Skincare Habit

 

"Happiness is a habit. So is your skincare."

I really like the quote above. I think it embodies the significance of embracing the beauty of consistency.

 

Consistency is the key to both happiness and effective skincare. Just as happiness thrives when we practice gratitude, kindness, and mindfulness each day, our skin flourishes when we care for it regularly. By taking care of our skin with a consistent routine, we're creating a daily ritual that, over time, leads to radiant and healthy skin.

In my previous blog post, "How Do I Practice Skinimalism", I shared about my skinimalist skincare routine, which includes the basics - cleanse, moisturize, protect. The essential products that I always have in my routine are cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen.

In this blog post, I'll delve a bit deeper, as I've integrated intermediate steps into my skincare regimen, building upon the foundational essentials.

Skincare Pyramid

When I first saw the skincare pyramid, I couldn't help but think it was some MLM thingy. However, as I explore further, I came to understand that the skincare pyramid is a guide to essential, fundamental steps for achieving an optimal and effective skincare routine.

 

Let's talk about the skincare pyramid from the base to the top.

Skincare Routine: Always

 

Maintaining good skin health is not just about skincare products; it's also influenced by our overall well-being. Staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep are necessary for radiant and healthy skin.

 

Proper hydration is essential for maintaining our skin's natural moisture balance. When our body is well-hydrated, our skin is less likely to become dry, flaky, or prone to irritation. Well-hydrated skin tends to appear more youthful and plump. Dehydrated skin can accentuate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

 

It's also common knowledge that a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants provides essential nutrients for skin health.

 

Stress slows down our skin's natural healing processes, leading to delayed recovery from blemishes or wounds. Chronic stress can lead to the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can trigger inflammation and exacerbate skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Managing stress helps our skin heal more effectively and reduces inflammation.

 

Sufficient sleep contributes to a refreshed and bright complexion. Skin cells are more active during deep sleep, which aids in the recovery and renewal of skin tissue. Inadequate sleep can result in dull, tired-looking skin with dark circles and puffiness.

These are long-term strategies that can promote vibrant, healthy skin. Coupled with a suitable skincare routine, these lifestyle choices can help us achieve the skin that we want, if you want it.

Skincare Routine: Daily

 

If you've read my previous blog post, "How Do I Practice Skinimalism", you will see that I include Cleanser, Toner, Serum, Moisturizer, Sunscreen in my daily routine.

 

In the skincare pyramid, the experts have included eye cream. It's a personal choice to include or exclude Eye Cream from your daily routine. For me, I do have a few eye creams, and I use them a few days per week or when I see that my eyes are puffy due to insufficient sleep.

Skincare Routine: Weekly

 

The weekly routine can be challenging, so I'd say pace yourself. Make the basics a habit first before attempting the more advanced steps.

 

Weekly routine that is related to skincare products includes face mask (1-2 times per week), exfoliation (2-3 times per week), and retinol (2-3 times per week).

Weekly routine that is related to hygiene includes cleaning beauty tools (sponges, brushes), and changing/washing pillowcase.

Skincare Routine: Monthly

 

Going for facial treatment falls under monthly skincare routine. But this one, I personally am not doing it. Maybe later when I feel like it.

Quick Skincare Tips

And now, let me share with you some quick skincare tips which I personally practice throughout the journey of building up my skincare habit.

1. Understand your skin type before purchasing products.

2. Start with the basics (cleanse, moisturize, SPF).

3. Take time with cleansing (including jawline & neck).

4. Double cleanse every night.

5. Exfoliate max 2-3 times per week.

6. Apply skincare to damp skin (for hydrating products).

7. SPF in moisturizer is not enough.

8. It's never too late to start!

9. Be patient & consistent. Don't be discouraged if you don't see overnight changes on your skin.

Back to the analogy between happiness and skincare. It truly reminds us that the most beautiful things in life often come from the commitment to simple, daily practices.

 

So, let's embrace the beauty of consistency. Let's make happiness a habit by finding joy in everyday moments. Let's treat your skincare not as a chore but as an act of self-love.

 

In both cases, the reward is clear - a brighter, more beautiful life, and skin that glows with health and vitality.