It’s been said that the best way to achieve the results you desire is by emulating the things that successful people do. When it comes to skincare, the best place to look is the habits of industry experts: estheticians.
In the spa industry, estheticians focus their skills and knowledge on the practices and treatments that improve the health and appearance of the skin. You can achieve these same results by implementing ongoing habits that bring back the youthful vitality you desire. Here are a few essential tips that everyone should consider:
Tip #1: Use Quality Products
You get what you pay for! Cheap drugstore skincare products have low-quality ingredients that can take a toll on your skin over time. As you are developing your at-home skincare routine, invest in products that are scientifically proven to provide the safe, effective results that you need.
The specific products you should be using depend on your skincare goals. For example, products used by someone with acne problems will be different than the products recommended for someone who is focused on anti-aging. For the best results, schedule a personal consultation with an esthetician to know what your skin needs. Here is an overview of some of the most common products that might be included in your skincare routine:
- Cleanser: Gentle ingredients to wash away impurities and minimize the risk of breakouts.
- Serum: Specific serums can include ingredients such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, retinol (vitamin A), glycerin, peptides, and more.
- Retinol: If you don’t have a serum that includes retinol, this ingredient is an important one to add to your skincare routine. This is the go-to recommendation for improving the overall texture of your skin and boosting collagen production.
- Moisturizer: It’s important to protect the moisture of your skin. A lack of moisture can be the cause of dullness, wrinkles, and even oily skin. Some people like to use a light moisturizer in the morning, and a heavy, protecting cream before bed.
Tip #2: Apply Products in the Right Order
The order of application matters when it comes to skincare. Always start with a cleanser to give yourself a fresh, clean surface on your skin. Then, start applying the lighter products first, and finish with the heavier products.
For example, serums should be applied after you’ve cleansed and patted your skin dry. These products are more targeted and contain active ingredients that need time to soak into your skin. You’ll gain the most benefits from serums by applying the serum before moisturizer. Then, finish out your routine by moisturizing. If you are planning to use makeup, give your skin enough time to soak in the skincare products before adding a layer of foundation.
Tip #3: Always Wear Sunscreen
If you are spending time outside in the sun, then it’s important to always be proactive by wearing sunscreen. Daily SPF 30 or 50 adds a layer of protection to minimize damage to your skin. The UV rays from the sun can take a toll over time, leading to the early development of sunspots, discoloration, fine lines, and more.
For best protection, apply SPF every 2 to 3 hours, even when it’s cloudy outside. Also, always have a hat available so you can get full coverage during the most intense times of the day.
Tip #4: Don’t Pick
Even though it might seem tempting to finally get that zit to pop, picking is one of the worst things that you can do for your complexion. A blemish lasts for 5 – 7 days before going away. On the other hand, the red mark from picking can linger for weeks or months.
Instead of trying to work it out with your fingers, it’s best to leave the blemishes alone. Cleanse the skin and apply a spot treatment that can speed up the healing, helping your skin return to normal as quickly as possible.
Tip #5: Consider Your Diet
Yes, the products you put on your skin can have an impact on reducing blemishes and the signs of aging. But you can only go skin-deep with the things you are applying to the surface. Consider an inside-out approach to improve your skin’s vitality with daily dietary habits.
Proper hydration goes a long way to help your skin stay plump, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also a good idea to enjoy a diet abundant in fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants to fight free radicals. Finally, some people notice that their skin improves drastically when reducing sugar intake and avoiding simple carbs.
Tip #6: Design an Annual Treatment Plan
The steps you take at home can only go so far to improve the appearance of your skin. If you want to see drastic results, then consider investing in regular skincare treatments. Available options include facials, chemical peels, laser resurfacing, Botox, fillers, and more.
Depending on your selected treatments, you might need to follow a series of appointments to achieve optimal results. For example, some people like to schedule appointments every 4 to 6 weeks in the beginning, then switch to a maintenance mode of quarterly treatments.
Tip #7: Professional Skincare Evaluation
The information you read online can only do so much for improving your skincare routine. Each person is unique, which is why it is essential to get a professional opinion on how you can optimize the appearance of your skin. Too often, people are making common skincare mistakes and don’t realize that their habits are taking a toll.
If you aren’t getting your desired results, then it’s time to talk to an experienced esthetician for a skincare evaluation. Together, we can design a personalized plan that combines at-home skincare habits with in-clinic treatments.
Call Mosaic Med Spa
What questions do you have about your skincare routine? If you are looking for solutions to achieve a vibrant, healthy complexion, then schedule a consultation and personalized skincare plan. You deserve quality, beautiful skin and our team at Mosaic Med Spa is here to help. For more information, schedule a visit or call our office at (703) 204-2773.
