Skin care is a topic that many people are interested in, but also confused by. With so many products, routines, tips and tricks out there, how do you know what works best for your skin type and needs? How do you achieve healthy, glowing and youthful-looking skin without spending a fortune or harming your health?
Here, I will reveal some skin care secrets that you might not know, but that can make a big difference in your skin’s appearance and health. These secrets are based on expert advice, scientific research and common sense. They are not hard to follow, but they can help you refine your routine and get the most out of your skin care products.
Whether you have oily, dry, combination, sensitive or normal skin, these secrets can benefit you and help you prevent or treat various skin problems. Read on to discover the skin care secrets you might not know!
Here are 10 Best Skin Care Secrets you should know:
Secret #1: Keep it simple:
The first secret to good skin care is to keep it simple. You don’t need a complicated or expensive routine to take care of your skin. In fact, using too many products or ingredients can cause more harm than good, as they can irritate your skin, clog your pores or interfere with each other.
According to Khatra Paterson, the owner of KP Aesthetics, it’s best to stick with the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, drinking water and balanced diet. These are the essentials that every skin type needs to stay hydrated, protected and nourished.
When choosing your products, look for gentle and effective formulas that suit your skin type and concerns. Avoid harsh or fragranced ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or inflammation. Also, use just enough product to cover your face and neck. Applying too much product can waste money and create a greasy or heavy feeling on your skin.
Secret #2: Get the order right:
The second secret to good skin care is to get the order right. The order in which you apply your products matters, as it can affect how well they absorb and work on your skin. A general rule is to apply your products from lightest to heaviest texture, or from lowest to highest pH.
“Think of your daily skin care regimen a little like a sandwich: The bread on either side of your filling is your cleanser and your moisturizer, and the great bit in the center is your serum,” says Diane Ackers, an aesthetician at Doctors Formula.
Here is a suggested order for a basic morning routine:
- Cleanser: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser that removes dirt, oil and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. Rinse well with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.
- Toner: If you use a toner, apply it after cleansing to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for the next steps. Choose a toner that is alcohol-free and contains hydrating or soothing ingredients like rose water, aloe vera or green tea.
- Serum: Apply a serum that targets your specific skin concerns, such as aging signs, dark spots, acne or redness. Serums are concentrated products that deliver active ingredients deep into your skin. Use a few drops and gently massage them into your skin until absorbed.
- Eye cream: Apply an eye cream that hydrates and brightens the delicate skin around your eyes. Look for ingredients like caffeine, vitamin C or peptides that can reduce puffiness, dark circles or fine lines.
- Moisturizer: Apply a moisturizer that locks in moisture and creates a protective barrier on your skin. Choose a moisturizer that matches your skin type and season. For example, use a lighter gel or lotion in summer and a richer cream or oil in winter.
- Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen as the last step of your routine before you go outdoors. Sunscreen is the most important product for preventing sun damage, which can cause premature aging, wrinkles, age spots and skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Apply it generously and evenly on all exposed areas of your skin. Reapply every two hours or more often if you sweat or swim.
Here is a suggested order for a basic evening routine:
- Cleanser: Wash your face with the same cleanser as in the morning or use a double-cleansing method if you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen. Double cleansing involves using an oil-based cleanser first to dissolve makeup and sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
- Toner: Use the same toner as in the morning or skip this step if you don’t feel the need.
- Serum: Use the same serum as in the morning or switch to a different one that suits your night-time needs. For example, you can use a serum that contains retinol, a form of vitamin A that can boost collagen production, smooth wrinkles and fade dark spots. However, retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s best to use it at night and wear sunscreen during the day.
- Eye cream: Use the same eye cream as in the morning or choose one that is more nourishing or anti-aging for the night.
- Moisturizer: Use the same moisturizer as in the morning or opt for a heavier or richer one that can repair and replenish your skin overnight.
- Face oil: If you have dry or mature skin, you can add a face oil as the final step of your routine. Face oils can provide extra hydration and nourishment to your skin, as well as seal in the benefits of the other products. Choose a face oil that is suitable for your skin type and contains natural or organic ingredients. Use a few drops and gently press them into your skin.
Secret #3: Exfoliate once per week:
The third secret to good skin care is to exfoliate once per week. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, which can make your skin look dull, rough or flaky. Exfoliating can help reveal smoother, brighter and more even-toned skin. It can also improve the absorption and effectiveness of your other products.
However, exfoliating too often or too harshly can damage your skin barrier, which can lead to irritation, inflammation, dryness or breakouts. Therefore, it’s best to limit exfoliation to once per week or less, depending on your skin type and sensitivity.
There are two main types of exfoliators: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliators use abrasive particles or tools to scrub away dead skin cells, such as scrubs, brushes or cloths. Chemical exfoliators use acids or enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) or fruit enzymes.
Both types of exfoliators have their pros and cons, so you need to choose one that suits your skin type and preference. Here are some tips to help you choose and use an exfoliator:
- If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may benefit from a chemical exfoliator that contains salicylic acid (BHA), which can unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
- If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may prefer a gentle physical exfoliator that contains fine particles or a soft cloth, which can buff away dead skin cells without irritating your skin.
- If you have normal or combination skin, you may use either type of exfoliator or alternate between them, depending on your needs and goals.
- If you have mature or sun-damaged skin, you may benefit from a chemical exfoliator that contains glycolic acid (AHA), which can stimulate collagen production and fade pigmentation.
- Always patch test a new exfoliator on a small area of your skin before using it on your face, to check for any adverse reactions.
- Always follow the instructions on the product label and don’t leave it on longer than recommended.
- Always apply an exfoliator on clean and damp skin, using gentle circular motions or a cotton pad. Avoid rubbing too hard or too long on any area of your skin.
- Always rinse off the exfoliator thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.
- Always follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen after exfoliating, as your skin may be more sensitive and prone to dehydration or sun damage.
Secret #4: Drink water, and lots of it:
The fourth secret to good skin care is to drink water, and lots of it. Water is essential for every function of your body, including your skin. Your skin is made up of about 64 percent water, which helps keep it plump, elastic and healthy.
Drinking enough water can help hydrate your skin from within, as well as flush out toxins and waste products that can cause inflammation or breakouts. It can also improve blood circulation and oxygen delivery to your skin cells, which can enhance their function and appearance.
How much water should you drink per day? The answer may vary depending on your age, weight, activity level and climate. However, a general guideline is to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day. You may need more if you exercise, sweat or live in a hot or dry environment.
To make sure you drink enough water throughout the day, here are some tips:
- Carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go and refill it often.
- Set reminders on your phone or use an app to track your water intake.
- Drink a glass of water before and after each meal and snack.
- Drink water instead of sugary drinks like soda, juice or coffee
Secret #5: Use natural ingredients as masks or toners:
The fifth secret to good skin care is to use natural ingredients as masks or toners. Masks and toners are products that can provide extra benefits to your skin, such as hydration, brightening, soothing or cleansing. However, you don’t need to buy expensive or chemical-laden products to achieve these effects. You can use natural ingredients that you can find in your kitchen or garden, such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices or honey.
Natural ingredients are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and enzymes that can benefit your skin in various ways. You can use them as masks or toners to hydrate, brighten, soothe or cleanse your skin. For example, you can use:
- Cucumber slices or juice to reduce puffiness and inflammation.
- Tomato pulp or juice to fade pigmentation and tighten pores.
- Banana mash or peel to moisturize and smooth wrinkles.
- Yogurt or milk to exfoliate and soften your skin.
- Honey or aloe vera to heal and calm irritated skin.
- Green tea or chamomile tea to detoxify and refresh your skin.
- Turmeric or papaya to lighten and brighten your skin.
- To use natural ingredients as masks or toners, you need to:
- Choose an ingredient that suits your skin type and goal
- Wash and peel the ingredient if needed and cut it into small pieces
- Blend the ingredient with water or another liquid (such as oil, honey, yogurt or lemon juice) to form a paste or a liquid
- Apply the paste or liquid on your clean and dry face and neck, avoiding the eye area
- Leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes or until it dries
- Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel
- Follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen
Secret #6: Use natural oils as serums or eye creams:
The sixth secret to good skin care is to use natural oils as serums or eye creams. Serums and eye creams are products that can target specific skin concerns, such as aging signs, dark spots, acne or redness. However, you don’t need to buy expensive or synthetic products to achieve these results. You can use natural oils that are potent sources of fatty acids, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that can nourish and repair your skin.
Natural oils are suitable for all skin types, even oily or acne-prone skin. They can balance your skin’s oil production, prevent moisture loss and protect your skin from environmental damage. You can use them as serums or eye creams to target specific skin concerns, such as:
- Rosehip oil to boost collagen production and fade scars.
- Tea tree oil to fight acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Almond oil to hydrate and brighten the delicate skin around your eyes.
- Jojoba oil to mimic your skin’s natural sebum and regulate oil production.
- Argan oil to moisturize and soften your skin without clogging pores.
- Lavender oil to soothe and calm irritated skin.
To use natural oils as serums or eye creams, you need to:
- Choose an oil that suits your skin type and goal
- Buy pure, cold-pressed and organic oils if possible
- Patch test the oil on a small area of your skin before using it on your face
- Use a few drops of oil and gently massage them into your clean and damp face and neck
- Use the oil at night or in the morning before applying sunscreen
Secret #7: Use natural remedies for common skin problems:
The seventh secret to good skin care is to use natural remedies for common skin problems. Skin problems such as acne, blackheads, sunburns or rashes can be annoying and uncomfortable. While there are many over-the-counter or prescription products that can treat these issues, they may also have side effects or cause irritation. You can try using natural remedies that are safer and cheaper alternatives.
Natural remedies are made from ingredients that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal or antiseptic properties that can help heal and prevent various skin problems. You can try using natural remedies such as:
- Apple cider vinegar for acne, blackheads or warts.
- Baking soda for sunburns, insect bites or rashes.
- Oatmeal for eczema, psoriasis or dry skin.
- Aloe vera for burns, cuts or wounds.
- Garlic for fungal infections, cold sores or pimples.
To use natural remedies for common skin problems, you need to:
- Choose a remedy that suits your skin problem and goal
- Dilute the remedy with water or another liquid (such as oil, honey, yogurt or lemon juice) if needed
- Apply the remedy on the affected area with a cotton ball, a cloth or your fingers
- Leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes or as long as needed
- Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel
- Repeat the process once or twice a day until the problem improves
Secret #8: Use natural ingredients to make your own products:
The eighth secret to good skin care is to use natural ingredients to make your own products. Making your own products can be fun, creative and rewarding. You can customize your products according to your skin type, needs and preferences. You can also save money and avoid harmful chemicals or preservatives that may be found in commercial products.
Making your own products can be easy and simple. You only need a few natural ingredients that you can find in your kitchen or garden, such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, oils, honey or vinegar. You also need some basic tools and containers, such as a blender, a bowl, a spoon, a measuring cup, a funnel and a jar or a bottle.
You can make your own products such as:
- Cleansers
- Toners
- Scrubs
- Masks
- Moisturizers
- Serums
- Eye creams
- Lip balms
- Body lotions
- Body butters
To make your own products, you need to:
- Choose a product that you want to make and find a recipe online or in a book
- Gather the ingredients and tools that you need
- Follow the instructions and measurements carefully
- Store the product in a clean and dry container in a cool and dark place
- Use the product within a few days or weeks or add a natural preservative (such as vitamin E oil or grapefruit seed extract) to extend its shelf life
Secret #9: Use natural ingredients to enhance your beauty:
The ninth secret to good skin care is to use natural ingredients to enhance your beauty. Beauty is not only about your skin, but also about your hair, nails, teeth and overall appearance. You can use natural ingredients to improve and maintain your beauty in various ways.
Natural ingredients are safe, effective and affordable alternatives to cosmetic products or procedures that may be harmful, expensive or invasive. You can use natural ingredients such as:
- Coconut oil for shiny and healthy hair
- Lemon juice for whiter and brighter teeth
- Olive oil for stronger and smoother nails
- Cinnamon for fuller and plumper lips
- Turmeric for glowing and radiant skin
To use natural ingredients to enhance your beauty, you need to:
- Choose an ingredient that suits your beauty goal and preference
- Use the ingredient as it is or mix it with other ingredients (such as oil, honey, yogurt or sugar) to form a paste or a liquid
- Apply the ingredient on the desired area (such as your hair, teeth, nails or lips) with a brush, a cotton ball or your fingers
- Leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes or as long as needed
- Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel
- Repeat the process once or twice a week or as often as you like
Secret #10: Use natural ingredients to relax and pamper yourself:
The tenth secret to good skin care is to use natural ingredients to relax and pamper yourself. Skin care is not only about taking care of your skin, but also about taking care of yourself. Stress, anxiety, fatigue or lack of sleep can affect your skin’s health and appearance. You can use natural ingredients to relax and pamper yourself in various ways.
Natural ingredients can help you create a spa-like atmosphere at home, where you can unwind and rejuvenate[1] your mind, body and soul. You can use natural ingredients such as:
- Lavender for calming and soothing your nerves
- Rose for uplifting and romanticizing your mood
- Peppermint for refreshing and energizing your senses
- Chamomile for relaxing and sleeping better
- Epsom salt for detoxifying and relieving pain
To use natural ingredients to relax and pamper yourself, you need to:
- Choose an ingredient that suits your mood and goal
- Use the ingredient as it is or mix it with other ingredients (such as oil, honey, milk or baking soda) to form a bath soak, a massage oil, a candle or an aromatherapy diffuser
- Apply the ingredient on yourself (such as soaking in the bath, massaging your body, lighting the candle or diffusing the aroma) with care and caution
- Enjoy the ingredient for 20 to 30 minutes or as long as you like
- Relax and breathe deeply while enjoying the ingredient
FAQs:
Here are some frequently asked questions about natural skin care:
- Q: Is natural skin care better than conventional skin care?
- A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as different products and ingredients may work differently for different people and skin types. However, some possible benefits of natural skin care are that it can be safer, cheaper, more eco-friendly and more personalized than conventional skin care. Some possible drawbacks of natural skin care are that it can be less effective, less consistent, less regulated and more irritating than conventional skin care. Ultimately, the best skin care for you is the one that suits your needs, preferences and budget.
- Q: How can I tell if a product is natural or not?
- A: The term “natural” is not regulated by any authority, so it can mean different things to different companies and consumers. Therefore, you should not rely on the label alone to determine if a product is natural or not. Instead, you should read the ingredient list carefully and look for familiar names that come from nature, such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, oils or honey. You should also avoid ingredients that are synthetic, artificial or harmful, such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates or fragrances.
- Q: How can I store my natural products properly?
- A: Natural products may have a shorter shelf life than conventional products, as they may not contain preservatives or stabilizers that prevent them from spoiling or degrading. Therefore, you should store your natural products properly to extend their shelf life and maintain their quality. Some tips to store your natural products properly are:
- Keep them in a cool and dark place away from heat, light and moisture
- Keep them in airtight and opaque containers that prevent air and light exposure
- Keep them away from children and pets that may tamper with them
- Use clean and dry tools or fingers to apply them
- Add a natural preservative (such as vitamin E oil or grapefruit seed extract) to them if needed
- Discard them if they change in color, smell or texture
Conclusion:
Natural skin care is a popular and growing trend that can offer many benefits to your skin and overall well-being. However, natural skin care is not a one-size-fits-all solution that works for everyone. You need to do your own research, experimentation and evaluation to find the best natural skin care for you.
Here, I have shared some skin care secrets that you might not know, but that can help you improve your skin’s appearance and health. These secrets are based on expert advice, scientific research and common sense. They are not hard to follow, but they can help you refine your routine and get the most out of your natural skin care products.
We hope you have enjoyed reading this article and learned something new and useful. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!
