What’s your skincare routine? I’m genuinely curious! Even though I can’t usually use specific tips from women with skin types different from my own, I still love to find out about everyone’s unorthodox maintenance methods and how they get their skin clear, smooth and healthy. Personally, I’m all about fighting breakouts, improving skin tone and keeping my pores as clean as possible – and I think I finally have an effective routine in place. Here are my top five skincare tips:
- Wash your face only once a day. Even if you think your skin is oily and in no danger of drying out, believe me when I say stripping your skin of too much of its natural oil will only lead to breakouts down the line. I use my Bliss cleanser at night, and in the morning I splash my face with water. NOTE: This will only work if you remember to remove all of your makeup at night! As an added bonus, your cleanser will last longer, so you’ll save some cash.
- Use microfiber cloths daily for gentle yet highly effective exfoliation. Yes, I tried it, and yes, it works! You can find them in the automotive aisle at Target; the ones I bought were bright green and were on sale, 4 for $3.99. Just use it as you would a regular washcloth and enjoy the smooth, glowing skin it produces.
- Once or twice a week, I exfoliate my face in the shower with sea salt. (Another awesome blogger tip!) I like to keep a small plastic container filled with sea salt in the shower so I always have some on hand. Make sure it has a lid, of course, or your salt will get all wet and clumpy!
- When I do breakout, I forgo OTC spot treatments in favor of 100% pure tea tree oil. You should be able to find a bottle of this in the vitamin section at virtually any drugstore for less than $10. Just put a little on a cotton ball and apply to the affected area. Tea tree has awesome natural antiseptic qualities that really heal blemishes fast.
- Finally – and, perhaps, most importantly – DON’T touch your face! And I’m not just talking about picking, poking and prodding. You should also avoid seemingly innocuous activities like resting your hand on your chin while reading. In fact, the only time your hands should be on your face at all is right after they’ve been washed…if even then.
There it is: My guide to great skin. What tips have worked for you? Leave your top 5 skincare must haves in a comment!
