My DM's blow up daily with those of you not only looking for advice on supplementation, but also skincare recommendations, lifestyle changes you can make to help your specific skin concern, and overall questions on "whats the best skincare routine for me?"
I have whole chapters dedicated to specific skincare concerns in my book 'The Complete Guide To Healthy Skin' but here is an overview of my recommendations for the following 4 skin types- Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Combination skin and Sensitive skin. Lets get into it!
Oily Skin
For those with oily skin, it's important to follow a skincare routine that helps to control excess oil production and prevent breakouts. Here is a recommended skincare routine for you
Cleanser
Start your skincare routine by cleansing your face with a gentle foaming cleanser specifically formulated for oily skin. Look for cleansers that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or glycolic acid to help control oil production and unclog pores. Use lukewarm water to wash your face and gently pat dry with a clean towel.
Toner
After cleansing, use a toner to help balance the skin's pH levels and remove any remaining impurities. Look for toners that are alcohol-free and contain ingredients like witch hazel or niacinamide to help control oil and minimise the appearance of pores. Apply the toner to a cotton pad and gently swipe it over your face, avoiding the eye area.
Exfoliator
Exfoliating 2-3 times a week can help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which is especially important for those with oily skin. Choose a gentle exfoliator that contains ingredients like salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids to help control oil and prevent breakouts. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate the skin and lead to more oil production.
Moisturiser
Even oily skin needs hydration, so be sure to use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores. Look for moisturisers that are water-based and contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to help maintain moisture balance. Apply a small amount of moisturiser to your face and neck after cleansing and toning.
Sunscreen
It's crucial to protect your skin from the sun, even if you have oily skin. Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 that is oil-free and non-comedogenic to prevent clogged pores. Apply sunscreen every morning as the last step in your skincare routine, and reapply throughout the day if you are spending time outdoors.
Optional
Serum or Treatment: If you have specific skincare concerns, such as acne or hyper-pigmentation, you may want to incorporate a serum or treatment into your skincare routine. Look for products that contain ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, or niacinamide to target your specific concerns. Apply the serum or treatment after cleansing and toning, and before moisturising.
Night-time Routine
In the evening, it's important to cleanse your face to remove makeup, dirt, and oil that may have accumulated throughout the day. Follow the same steps as your morning skincare routine, but you may want to use a heavier moisturiser or night cream to help repair and hydrate your skin while you sleep.
In addition to following a consistent skincare routine, there are a few other tips for managing oily skin:
- Avoid products that are too harsh or drying, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to increased oil production.
- Use blotting papers throughout the day to absorb excess oil and prevent shine.
- Drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet to help regulate oil production from within.
- Avoid touching your face with dirty hands, as this can transfer bacteria and oil to your skin.
Supplements
Try adding in Clear & Calm to your supplementation routine. It contains nutrients that will balance your skin by reducing your oil production, fighting inflammation and calming your skin from within. I also love Omega-3 for reducing inflammation, so you can also look to add this- but stay clear of Omega 6 & 9.
By following a skincare routine tailored to oily skin and incorporating these tips, you can help control excess oil production, prevent breakouts, and achieve a healthy, balanced complexion.
Dry Skin
For those with dry skin, it's important to follow a skincare routine that helps to hydrate and nourish the skin to alleviate dryness and prevent flakiness. Here is a recommended skincare routine for dry skin:
Cleanser
Start your skincare routine by cleansing your face with a gentle, hydrating cleanser specifically formulated for dry skin. Look for cleansers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides to help retain moisture and protect the skin's barrier. Use lukewarm water to wash your face and gently pat dry with a clean towel.
Toner
After cleansing, use a hydrating toner to help restore moisture and balance the skin's pH levels. Look for toners that contain ingredients like rose water, chamomile, or aloe vera to soothe and hydrate the skin. Apply the toner to a cotton pad and gently pat it onto your face, avoiding the eye area.
Exfoliator
Exfoliating is still important for dry skin to remove dead skin cells and allow better absorption of skincare products. However, it's crucial to use a gentle exfoliator that won't strip the skin of its natural oils. Look for exfoliators that contain ingredients like lactic acid or fruit enzymes to gently exfoliate without causing irritation.
Serum
Serums are a great way to deliver potent ingredients deep into the skin to address specific concerns. For dry skin, look for serums that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, or squalane to boost moisture levels and improve skin texture. Apply the serum after toning and before moisturising.
Moisturiser
Hydration is key for dry skin, so choose a rich, emollient moisturiser that provides long-lasting moisture and helps to repair the skin's barrier. Look for moisturisers that contain ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or oils such as jojoba or argan to lock in moisture and soothe dry, flaky skin. Apply a generous amount of moisturiser to your face and neck after cleansing and toning.
Sunscreen
Even if you have dry skin, it's important to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Choose a moisturising sunscreen with at least SPF 30 that is gentle enough for dry skin. Apply sunscreen every morning as the last step in your skincare routine, and reapply throughout the day if you are spending time outdoors.
Night-time Routine
In the evening, continue to hydrate and nourish your skin by following a similar routine to your morning skincare routine. You may want to use a thicker, more occlusive night cream or facial oil to help repair and replenish your skin while you sleep.
In addition to following a consistent skincare routine, there are a few other tips for managing dry skin:
- Drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids to help hydrate your skin from within.
- Avoid hot showers or baths, as hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate dryness.
- Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air, especially during the winter months when indoor heating can dry out the skin.
- Avoid harsh skincare products that contain alcohol, fragrances, or sulfates, as these can further dry out and irritate the skin.
Supplements
I would highly recommend Illuminate & Hydrate if your have dry skin. We have customers with dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis that have had complete skin transformations using this product. It contains 7 different vitamins that work to hydrate and nourish form within.
By following a skincare routine tailored to dry skin and incorporating these tips, you can help hydrate, nourish, and restore your skin's moisture balance.
Combination Skin
For those with combination skin, which is characterised by having both oily and dry areas on the face, it's important to follow a skincare routine that balances the needs of both skin types. Here is a recommended skincare routine for combination skin:
Cleanser
Start your skincare routine by cleansing your face with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that is suitable for all skin types. Look for a cleanser that removes excess oil and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Use lukewarm water to wash your face and gently pat dry with a clean towel.
Toner
After cleansing, use a toner to help balance the skin's pH levels and remove any remaining impurities. Look for toners that are alcohol-free and contain ingredients like witch hazel or niacinamide to help control oil in the T-zone while hydrating dry areas. Apply the toner to a cotton pad and gently swipe it over your face, avoiding the eye area.
Exfoliator
Exfoliating is important for combination skin to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Choose a gentle exfoliator that contains ingredients like salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids to help control oil in the T-zone and hydrate dry areas. Exfoliate 2-3 times a week to prevent breakouts and maintain smooth, radiant skin.
Serum
Serums are a great way to deliver targeted ingredients to different areas of the face. For combination skin, look for a lightweight serum that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide to balance oil production in the T-zone and moisturise dry areas. Apply the serum after toning and before moisturising.
Moisturiser
Choose a moisturiser that is suitable for combination skin and provides hydration without clogging pores or feeling too heavy. Look for a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to hydrate dry areas and control oil in the T-zone. Apply a small amount of moisturiser to your face and neck after cleansing and toning.
Sunscreen
Protecting your skin from the sun is essential, even if you have combination skin. Choose a moisturising sunscreen with at least SPF 30 that is suitable for all skin types. Apply sunscreen every morning as the last step in your skincare routine, and reapply throughout the day if you are spending time outdoors.
Night-time Routine
In the evening, continue to balance and hydrate your skin by following a similar routine to your morning skincare routine. You may want to use a thicker, more hydrating night cream in dry areas and a lighter gel moisturiser in the T-zone to address the different needs of your skin.
In addition to following a consistent skincare routine, there are a few other tips for managing combination skin:
- Use blotting papers throughout the day to absorb excess oil in the T-zone without removing moisture from dry areas.
- Avoid using harsh skincare products that can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate dryness or oiliness.
- Customise your skincare routine based on the needs of different areas of your face. For example, use a mattifying primer in the T-zone and a hydrating primer in dry areas before applying makeup.
Supplements
The perfect combination for you would be Clear & Calm taken along side Rejuvenate & Firm. They work in harmony together and each contain different nutrients so can safely be taken at the same time- game changer!
By following a skincare routine tailored to combination skin and incorporating these tips, you can help balance oil production, hydrate dry areas, and achieve a healthy, radiant complexion.
Sensitive Skin
For those with sensitive skin, it's important to follow a gentle skincare routine that helps to soothe and protect the skin without causing irritation or flare-ups. Here is a recommended skincare routine for sensitive skin:
Cleanser
Start your skincare routine by using a mild, fragrance-free cleanser specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for cleansers that are gentle, non-comedogenic, and free of harsh ingredients like sulfates or fragrances. Use lukewarm water to wash your face and pat dry with a soft towel.
Toner
If you have sensitive skin, it's best to skip toner or choose a gentle, alcohol-free toner that contains soothing ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera. Look for toners that help to hydrate and balance the skin without causing irritation. Apply the toner to a cotton pad and gently pat it onto your face, avoiding the eye area.
Moisturiser
Choose a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser that is suitable for sensitive skin and provides hydration without clogging pores or causing redness. Look for moisturisers that contain ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or colloidal oatmeal to help soothe and protect the skin barrier. Apply a small amount of moisturiser to your face and neck after cleansing.
Sunscreen
Protecting your sensitive skin from the sun is crucial to prevent irritation and inflammation. Choose a mineral-based sunscreen with at least SPF 30 that is free of chemical filters and fragrance. Apply sunscreen every morning as the last step in your skincare routine, and reapply throughout the day if you are spending time outdoors.
Night-time Routine
In the evening, continue to nourish and protect your sensitive skin by following a similar routine to your morning skincare routine. You may want to use a thicker, more hydrating night cream or facial oil to help repair and replenish your skin while you sleep.
Patch Test
Before incorporating any new skincare products into your routine, it's important to perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any adverse reactions. Apply a small amount of the product to your inner forearm or behind your ear and wait 24-48 hours to see if any redness, itching, or irritation occurs.
In addition to following a gentle skincare routine, there are a few other tips for managing sensitive skin:
- Avoid skincare products that contain harsh ingredients like alcohol, fragrances, sulfates, or parabens, as these can trigger sensitivity and irritation.
- Use lukewarm water when cleansing your face, as hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate sensitivity.
- Choose hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin to minimise the risk of irritation.
- Consider incorporating products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, calendula, or green tea extract to help calm and protect sensitive skin.
Supplements
I have very reactive and sensitive skin so I would highly recommend my favourite supplement- Rejuvenate & Firm. Its packed with anti-oxidants that work to repair and renew skin, whilst keeping it balanced and calm. This is a perfect overall healthy skin supplement for you and can also be combined with our other supplements.
By following a gentle skincare routine tailored to sensitive skin and incorporating these tips, you can help soothe, protect, and nourish your skin without causing irritation or flare-ups.
I hope you have found this article helpful- feel free to share it with someone else it could help :)
Charlotte x