1. EXFOLIATE WEEKLY
Skin is constantly being renewed, and by exfoliating regularly you help deep clean pores and get rid of those old cells.
There are two forms of exfoliants: chemical and physical. Chemical ones loosen the skin cells, whereas physical ones mechanically brush off the dead skin cells. Try using a cleansing formula that includes hydroxy acids, as they help to gently loosen skin cells. If you have oily skin, use a brush twice a week with your cleanser. However if you prefer bead-based exfoliants, keep it to once a week as they can be a little more aggressive.
2. REMOVE MAKEUP BEFORE CLEANSING
It's easy to jump right into cleansing while you have all your makeup still on, but removing it first is very important. Makeup can cause congestion, creating a barrier which will prevent all the active ingredients in cleansers from getting into the skin and working!
3. CHANGE YOUR TECHNIQUE
Don't always scrub your fave vigorously, even though that's what feels the most effective. It can cause redness and sensitivity.
Try mixing a small amount of gel cleanser with water and creating a foam, massaging it into your face in circular motions.
The same can be done with a cleansing oil or cream, however you don't need to mix those with water beforehand.
Use warm water to rinse off, and dry softy with a towel.
4. USE A TONER
Toners used to be very strong, and alcohol based that would leave your skin feeling V tight. Now, they're very incredible hydrating waters and mists! Filled with ingredients like green tea, avocado oil and antioxidants, they protect and refresh your skin! Make sure you check the ingredients for alcohol based toners to avoid dryness and sensitivity.
5. DON'T WORK OUT WITH MAKEUP ON
We know every fitness blogger on Instagram look glamorous in their pics, but that isn't ideal for working out.
Sweat can get caught under all those heavy makeup bases, which will obviously lead to break outs. Just clean your face with a makeup wipe to allow your skin to breathe during a workout.
If you truly feel like you need some makeup for the gym, use a natural mineral powder.
6. SUNSCREEN. ALWAYS.
It's so important to wear SPF every single day to protect your skin. Luckily, most moisturisers and BB/CC creams come with SPF included.
Protecting your skin when you're young will prevent sun damage which will start to show in your late twenties and thirties.
7. USE A SERUM
Using a boosting nutrient serum like vitamin A, B, C and E underneath your moisturiser actually helps shield your skin.
8. RESEARCH ACNE TREATMENTS
Skincare routines can be tiresome when treating acne, so aside from seeing your dermatologist to get the best routine and products for you, look out for calming and antibacterial agents like tea-tree, calendula and camomile.
Don't use harsh ingredients like alcohol and benzoyl peroxide daily, as they can cause irritation.
9. CLEAN YOUR TOOLS
It's so important to wash your makeup brushes and any other tools that touch your face! Dead skin cells, oil, dirt and grime will build up on makeup brushes, sponges and whatever else you may use.
10. EAT CLEAN
Your diet is one of the biggest influences on your skin. Cut back on processed foods, and fizzy drinks. Especially refined carbs like potatoes and noodles.
Stick to fresh food like fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds and fish to maintain a healthy glow in your face!