The world of skincare can be a very confusing one, and when
you’re in the throes of wedding planning it can be the last thing you want to
start worrying about. So whether you’re a soap and water girl or have a
bathroom cabinet bulging with the latest products, here’s Kerry Baker Make Up Artist’s handy guide to
skincare.
Cleanse, tone, moisturise.
These three words can often send ladies into a spin, but
honestly it’s not that complicated! Cleansing helps to remove any dirt or make
up and using a toner refreshes the skin, tightens pores and removes any
remaining traces of make-up and cleanser. Both should be repeated twice a day
for squeaky clean, oil free skin. Ideally we should use a day cream and a night
cream to moisturise our skin as it has different functions: during the day it
helps protect the skin, and while asleep, it repairs and renews itself.
So, how are we feeling so far? Not too complicated? And for
anyone who thinks they don’t have time…. we spend at least 3 mins brushing
our teeth twice a day. That’s all it takes to care for our skin on a daily
basis. But if you really want to indulge and go the extra mile, here are a few
little extras to consider…
Exfoliators
A really important part of a good skin care routine as it
helps smooth the skin by getting rid of any dead skin cells. The skin looks
brighter and make-up performs a lot better too (just think, you wouldn’t paint
a piece of wood without sanding it first!). Once a week is good, twice a week
is great!
Face masks
These can be a great addition to tackling some of the most
common skincare issues. Moisturising
ones can help sooth dry/sensitive skins, while deep cleansing types can treat
de-congested/spot prone skin.
Serums
Perfect for dry or mature skin, but can be used by anyone
for a targeted part of a skin care routine. Used before moisturiser, they can
help with specialist needs such as added hydration, acne or ageing. Serums can
be pricey, but they’re often concentrated so a little goes a long way!
Eye cream and eye make-up removers
The skin around the eyes is much more delicate and therefore
prone to showing signs of stress, fatigue, ageing and dehydration. Eye make-up
removers are more gentle formulas, plus look out for ones which remove
waterproof mascara if yours is particularly stubborn. Eye creams are much richer than moisturisers
and able to combat puffiness, dark circles and fine lines. They should be used
twice a day as part of the skincare routine.
But how do we know which product is the right one for our
skin? If you are unsure, a trip to a specialist in facial care is a must to get
the best advice on what to look out for when choosing the right products
whatever your budget. And start your skin care routine as early as possible. I
promise it is worth it!
Cheats tip:
Buying all these products can be costly, so here’s how to
save yourself a few £s AND save a couple of minutes. Replace the toner with
micellar water. It’s the latest “in” product but in truth make-up artists have
been using it for years as its gentle on skin yet really good at removing dirt
and make-up.
