building a skincare routine for sensitive sin types | skincare 101

     

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Now that you've learned about how to create a basic skincare routine with cleansers + moisturizers ideal for sensitive skin types, it's time to round out your routine with an exfoliator and toner that'll supplement your normal skin routine and help you reach your skin goals. Remember, if you're not sure what skin type you have, check this post out first!

With so many different skincare products out there, it can be hard to figure out exactly which of those your skin needs. For sensitive skin types, we'll use the outline below to create a skincare routine tailored to sensitive skin type needs!

https://theskincareedit.com/skincare-for-sensitive-skin

1. CLEANSER

You should already know what to look for in a cleanser from this post. Now, all you need to figure out is when and how to use your cleanser!

HOW TO USE YOUR CLEANSER:

• Always read the instructions on your product; many people ignore these steps and simply apply the product, but it's better for your skin to read and figure out exactly how much to use and how long to massage onto your face
• If you have excess oil and sweat on your t-zone area, try dabbing gently with a towel first to make sure your skin is dry before you apply cleanser; this will make the cleanser more effective overall for your skin
• For sensitive skin, use a smaller portion of cleanser to start off with so you can test whether or not the product irritates your skin

WHEN TO USE YOUR CLEANSER:

• Use your cleanser first thing in your morning and evening routine
• Cleansing first before exfoliating 'prepares' your skin for exfoliating and makes your exfoliator more effective in removing impurities and clearing out your pores; this will also give your skin a little prep and warmup before being scrubbed by potentially irritating beads

https://turquoiseandteale.com/2016/03/07/best-face-exfoliators/

2. EXFOLIATOR

Exfoliators are products that help remove dead skin cells from your face to create even tone and to allow new healthy skin cells to shine through. Because sensitive skin types are more easily irritated, you may be cautious about using an exfoliator. However, all skin types can be treated with exfoliation, especially if you have sensitive skin that leans towards the oily side. 

The key with sensitive skin is to be gentle and make sure you test the product slowly before fully incorporating it into your skincare routine. Here's a list of exfoliators for sensitive skin to help you get started!

WHAT TO LOOK FOR + AVOID:

• Look for mild chemical exfoliators; do not use mechanical exfoliators as these are more aggressive and easily irritate your skin
• Use gentle AHAs that don't penetrate your skin deeply; ingredients such as lactic acid exfoliate gently without causing rashes or irritation
• Avoid ingredients strong hydroxy acids like hyaluronic acid, synthetic oils, fragrances, and sulfates

WHEN TO EXFOLIATE:

• Exfoliate after your cleanser because your skin will be more prepped for exfoliating once it has been properly cleansed first
• Exfoliate in the morning; this is because you want to get rid of any skin impurities and oils that your skin produces over night
• As a sensitive skin type, start off with exfoliating once a week; if you have drier skin, once a week should work well for your skin; oilier skin types may exfoliate up to three times a week if your skin isn't overly irritated

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3. TONER

Toner is a water-based tonic that packs in tons of ingredients to brighten, even, moisturize, and more for your skin. Many people use toner to remove makeup ask well. For sensitive skin, toner is an ideal product to soothe your irritated skin, remove redness, and provide extra hydration as a protective layer. This list of toners is a great guide for people with sensitive skin!

WHAT TO LOOK FOR + AVOID

• As always, avoid fragrances, alcohols, and dyes so you won't irritate your sensitive skin
• Look for anti-inflammatory ingredients such as glycerin, rose water, aloe, and witch hazel
•  Toners in spraying/spritzing form are ideal for sensitive skin types, so you won't have to use cotton balls to wipe on excess toner and potentially cause skin irritation

WHEN + HOW TO USE TONER:

• Use your toner twice a day after exfoliating or cleansing and before moisturizing
• If your toner doesn't come in spray form, gently apply the toner to your skin using your fingertips instead of using a cotton ball or pad

https://www.allure.com/gallery/best-moisturizers-with-spf/amp

4. MOISTURIZER

You should already know what to look for in a moisturizer from this post. Now, all you need to figure out is when and how to use your moisturizer!

HOW TO USE YOUR MOISTURIZER:

• Start with a very small pump (dot-sized amount) and use a circular motion to gently rub in your moisturizer; if desired, repeat this process
• If your sensitive skin is oily in some areas, go lighter with your moisturizer; if your skin is drier or needs more hydration in other areas, apply more moisturizer in those areas

WHEN TO USE YOUR MOISTURIZER:

• Moisturizer serves as a protective barrier during the day and helps revitalize your skin during the night, so it's important to moisturize twice a day as the last part of your skincare routine
• The right moisturizer can soothe your skin and act as a protective barrier against harsh outside factors, so consistent moisturizing is key to a skincare routine for sensitive skin!

This guide to creating the perfect skincare routine for sensitive skin is the last one out of the five main skin types. In the upcoming posts, you'll learn about tips on how to add on to your skincare routine and how to best take care of your skin, no matter what kind of skin you have. Stay tuned for posts on how to properly wash your face, how to avoid breakouts, what the best skincare products are and what to avoid, and so much more!