Aging is one thing we can’t avoid. However, we can slow down the process and prevent some of the effects of aging. The key word here is to prevent.
With that being said I’m going to be going over three important steps that you must incorporate into your routine to age flawlessly.
Step 1. Exfoliate
Exfoliation is very important in the process of removing old skin cells and also aids in better product absorption. Allowing the products to work better and prevent clogged pores. DO NOT EXFOLIATE DAILY! As this can cause tenderness and can irritate your skin especially if you have acne. So avoid exfoliating your blemishes as I would recommend only exfoliating weekly. When not exfoliating use a gentle face wash.
Step 2. Serums
Serums are my secret weapon against acne scars, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and oily skin. These are the things I struggle with the most. Serums are a lot thinner than a moisturizer and can penetrate the skin deeper than your moisturizer. Which is why I love them. I first started to use serums to help with the acne scars I would receive after every period. Let me tell you I saw a huge difference in my skin. Not only were my acne scars disappearing but my skin had a more even tone and I wasn’t waking up with oily skin either. It was like my skin was glowing. I want to make it clear that you still must moisturize!
Step 3. Moisturize! Moisturize! Moisturize!
Moisturizing is the last step in the skincare routine. If you have oily skin you might need a thicker and richer moisturizer, to prevent your skin from producing unwanted oil. Your skin produces oil to moisturize itself. If you apply your moisturizer and feel as if your skin is tight after moisturizing, you probably need a richer moisturizer that is going to provide more moisture. I find that my acne moisturizer with salicylic acid leaves my skin feeling a little tight. So I wear a second moisturizer that is richer, usually, a wrinkle cream as these are really moisturizing themselves.
You don’t need two moisturizers, just a good one. I just like using the acne-medicated one to help with my occasional breakouts but you don’t need to as everyone’s skin is different.
Another thing is having an SPF Moisturizer for the day is very important to protect the skin against sun damage that can cause wrinkles and age spots. If possible you should have a moisturizer for the day with SPF and a night moisturizer.
We recover and repair when we sleep so yes a pm moisturizer does help in preventing the effects of aging.
These three simple steps will make a difference! I choose not to use a toner because it dries out my skin and so this step is optional. I have been wearing wrinkle cream since I was 18 years old and incorporated serums in my mid-20s all the way into my 30s. I do believe in taking care of your skin and doing what you can do to prevent wrinkles, age spots, and scars. The earlier you start the better for you in the end.