Close your eyes and visualise your vanity or bathroom cupboard. Counting the number of products you use – not to mention the list of unpronounceable ingredients they contain – probably requires more than one hand, right?
The more products you use, the greater the temptation to slap them on without a clear strategy. But random application is no way to make the most of their wrinkle-busting, nourishing or protective qualities. What you need is a POA.
Everyone’s routine will be a little different, but there are two basic universal principles: firstly, go from thinnest consistency to thickest, and, secondly, layer water-based products under oil-based ones. Different products have different molecule sizes, so layering in this order allows for each to reach its intended layer of the skin and work its magic there.
Your 6-step routine
1. Cleanser
Cleaning the face twice daily with a gel, cream or foaming cleanser helps to remove excess sebum and make-up residue. This allows for other products to penetrate deeper into the skin.
We recommend Bioderma Purifying and Foaming Cleansing Gel: Gentle and non-drying, this cleanser is a boon for combination or oily skin.
2. Exfoliator
If you don’t do so already, it’s worth using a gentle exfoliator two to three times a week. Exfoliating gets rid of dead skin cells and helps reveal a fresh new layer of skin. An exfoliating cleanser, which you can use instead of your daily cleanser, also saves time by eliminating a step.
We recommend Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Daily Scrub: Made with naturally derived grapefruit extract, this exfoliator targets blackheads and breakouts (it also smells delicious).
3. Toner
It’s a little controversial in the beauty world (some believe it’s unnecessary), but (the right) toner can serve an important purpose: balancing your skin’s pH levels. If you have dry or sensitive skin, avoid alcohol-based toners.
We recommend The Body Shop Aloe Soothing Toner: Because of its cleansing properties, this alcohol-free toner helps free your skin of oil, dirt and make-up.
4. Serum
Serums have high concentrations of active ingredients that target the deeper layers of the skin. Each serum targets a specific skin concern. For instance, serums with vitamin C help to brighten the skin, while those with hyaluronic acid tackle dryness and the signs of ageing.
We recommend L'Oréal Age Perfect Golden Serum: This stimulates cell renewal and improves hydration for a healthy glow.
5. Moisturiser
Creams or lotions work to lock in the hydration our skins need and offer the plumpness we all want. Choose one that suits your skin type (dry, oily or combination).
We recommend Johnson's Daily Essentials Hydrating 24hour Day Cream: This is enriched with provitamin B5 which provides essential moisture.
6. SPF/sunscreen
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) products should be the last step, before you apply make-up. Some moisturisers offer a SPF, but it’s usually not enough. Applying a factor 30 or higher will help to prevent the development of skin cancer as well as help slow the ageing process.
We recommend Avène SPF50+ Sunscreen Cream: Offering both UVA and UVB protection (both are crucial), this SPF helps protect against long-term skin damage and is suitable for sensitive skin.
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