How to Perfect Your Skin with Serums, Moisturizers, and More

 Many people don’t think about their skin until there’s a problem. Maybe your skin has gotten dry and cracked, or you’ve noticed wrinkles forming around your eyes. Sometimes the change is temporary, like the skin dulling at a change in the seasons. While there is no shortage of skincare products on the market, sometimes deciding what you need and when to use each product is overwhelming.

Your skin is the largest organ in your body and is a vital defense mechanism against a harsh environment. At the same time, the world of skin care has grown more complicated, with aisles and aisles of potential products to add to your regimen. We’ve broken down skin care into common categories to help you pick the products you need to perfect the look and feel of your skin.

Cleansers

Cleansers are the foundation of a good skincare routine. We’re talking cleansers instead of face soap because cleansers tend to be gentler on the skin. They break up oils and remove dirt that builds up on the skin without stripping the skin of its natural, protective moisture barrier.

Some cleansers are made for all skin types, like SkinResource.MD’s Total Facial Cleansing Gel. This type of cleanser works on everything from dry to sensitive skin without causing irritation.

Those with more specific issues, like acne, may want to try a cleanser specifically made to treat the bacteria that cause breakouts. For example, Tea Tree Deep Clearing Facial Cleanser has the natural antibacterial properties of tea tree oil, along with citric acid to exfoliate and remove pore-clogging dead skin cells.

Exfoliants

Exfoliants often get overlooked, but they can make a huge difference in the appearance of your skin. Exfoliants remove dead skin cells, which can dull the skin and clog pores. They’re made in physical and chemical varieties. Either type works, but some people prefer the tactile feel of a physical exfoliant like Crystal Clarity Exfoliation Scrub, while others prefer the cool smoothness of a chemical exfoliant like Alpha Hydroxy Skin Renewal Serum.

Toners

You can use a toner after cleansing to target specific problems. For example, some toners, like Pore Purifying Astringent, help treat acne. This particular formula does so without removing the skin’s moisture barrier, which is important to prevent further breakouts. Products that remove that barrier can cause the skin to make excess oil, which only makes breakouts worse.

Other toners, like Visibly Moist Toner, add moisture to the skin. This type of product is a good option for those with dry skin or those who live in a dry climate.

Serums

Serums have a shorter ingredient list than moisturizers and creams, but those ingredients come in more powerful concentrations. A serum usually serves a very specific purpose. Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Boost Serum, for example, contains ingredients that attract and absorb water to help hydrate the skin.

Total Antioxidant - Vitamin C Facial Serum, on the other hand, provides a high concentration of vitamin C to fight damage from free radicals and aid collagen production to maintain the skin’s flexibility. Serums are a good way to give your skin a boost in one specific area.

Moisturizers

Moisturizers, like cleansers, are a skincare staple that everyone can benefit from. They help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier and counteract the drying effects of sun exposure, air conditioners and furnaces.

Moisturizers can target specific skin issues and types. Baobab Skin Correction Facial Cream, for example, evens skin tone and targets wrinkles while hydrating the skin. If your skin is fairly average without a lot of dark spots or dry patches, a general moisturizer like Oil Free Antioxidant Facial Moisturizer that’s lightweight but gentle enough for sensitive skin and often works well.

Moisturizers can also be thicker and heavier for a bigger dose of hydration. Ultra Rich Biolipid Cream is an example of this type of moisturizer. This formula works well to hydrate dry skin or to give normal or sensitive skin a hydrating boost at night. 

Sun protection

The last step in any skincare routine should be the application of a physical sunscreen, like Essential Solar Protectoror Hyaluronic Facial Solar Protector. Sunscreens should be applied last because they can prevent other skincare products from absorbing into the skin. Sunscreens should be broad-spectrum to prevent both UVA and UVB rays from penetrating the skin.

Putting it all together 

Take the time to target your skin type—dry, oily, sensitive, or combination. Start by picking a cleanser and moisturizer that complement your skin type. Then, add products that target your problem areas, keeping in mind that you can layer products to better nourish your skin.

If you’ve got dry patches, a serum with hyaluronic acid or Vitamin C can help. Breakouts can benefit from a cleanser, toner and moisturizer that remove excess oil without stripping the skin of needed hydration. For those who want to reduce and prevent wrinkles, opt for hydrating products and those with antioxidants like Vitamin C. Of course, moisturizers and sunscreen are a solid choice for any and everyone.

The right blend of products can change the appearance, strength, and texture of your skin, taking it from average to glowing.