A Beginner's Guide to Skincare

You're standing in Sephora, feeling overwhelmed by all of the different skincare products on the shelves. You know that you need to take better care of your skin, but you have no idea where to start. Sound familiar? Don't worry, you're not alone.

Skincare can feel complicated and confusing, especially when you're just starting out. But it doesn't have to be that way. In this post I'm going to share the 3 ingredients I’ve learned are essential when creating a basic skincare routine.

Hyaluronic acid

This bottle is a bit expensive but I only use a few pumps at a time. There are tons of options out there though for every budget.

Hyaluronic acid is produced naturally by our bodies. Topical hyaluronic acid helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and dryness. It also can help improve skin elasticity and make your complexion look more radiant. Not too shabby for something that occurs naturally in our bodies!

Retinol

I only use this at night! I just need a tiny and am able to cover my whole face.

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that helps to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, diminish the appearance of dark spots, and even out skin tone. In addition to being an anti-aging powerhouse, retinol is also an excellent acne-fighter. However, because retinol can be drying, it's important to use a moisturizer after application. I like to mix mine with a light lotion or face oil before applying it to my face.

SPF

I have the untinted version, but Elta also makes a tinted option! I might try that one out when I finish this bottle.

Last but not least, don't forget the sunscreen! I know, I know—you're probably sick of hearing about how important sunscreen is (I certainly am). But the truth is that SPF is one of the most important products in your beauty arsenal, especially if you want to keep your skin looking young and fresh. Sure, you could use a foundation or BB cream that has SPF built-in, but if you're looking for something lighter (and less expensive), try dusting some mineral powder over your moisturizer for an extra dose of sun protection.

So there you have it

A beginner's guide to building a simple yet effective skincare routine. Other elements of skincare you should consider are cleansers, toners, and moisturizers. Also, just remember that everyone's skin is different. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to all products. Now go forth and get glowy!