We all have times where we are doubtful and our own worst critic. Even though this is normal and something we all deal with, this can hinder us from reaching our highest potential!
To overcome your doubt, instead of fighting it, acknowledge it and show yourself compassion by assuring that everything will be fine and will workout in the end.
Show self love and compassion by trusting your judgement and being patient with yourself during these times. Your future self will thank you for it! =)
“Take care of your inner, spiritual beauty.
That will reflect in your face”
“There is no beauty without
some slight perfection”
“Beauty is truth’s smile when she beholds
her own face in a perfect mirror”
Determine Your Skin Type
There are four different types of skin: oily, dry, normal and combination. Knowing your skin type will help you put together a routine that suits your skin’s specific needs.
Each skin type has its nuances you need to come to understand in order to effectively care for it and its own set of pros and cons.
Oily: acne and frequent breakouts, shiny/greasy face, large pores
Dry Skin: cracking, flaky patches, easily irritated, sensitive, skin feels tight after cleansing
Combination: oily t-zone, recurring acne in specific areas, combo of characteristics from oily and dry types
Normal Skin: skin relatively clear, get occasional pimple.
Adding New Products To Your Routine
While putting together a routine you will likely experiment with a few different products before settling on one as you discover how your skin reacts to different skincare ingredients.
The most important thing you can do here is to only introduce new products into your routine ONE at a time. That means if you decide you need a new cleanser you won’t also start using a new moisturizer without giving the cleanser a test run for a couple weeks.
The reason being is that if you happen to breakout or your skin gets irritated you now have NO idea which product is causing you the trouble. Two weeks is a long enough time to test whether a skincare product plays nicely with your skin.
You can also do something called a patch test which is basically applying a small amount of product to a secluded area of your skin (say behind the ear) to check for any allergic reactions or inflammation. This can give you a rough idea of whether you can tolerate it but note that some people take days or even weeks before they notice any adverse reactions so this isn’t foolproof.
Eating A Skin Healthy Diet
Proper nutrition and a healthy diet is the foundation of every great skincare routine! Feeding your body the nutrients and vitamins it needs to build that perfect skin you’re looking for is a prerequisite before you start worrying about what products to use. Drinking water is also a big help for clearing up your skin because it helps rid your body of any toxins. It also will keep your skin and body hydrated!
In some cases you’ll find that by just changing your diet your skin problems either improve or go away altogether.
Step 1: Cleansing
Cleansing will clear out your pores by removing gunk, excess oil, and leftover product that gets left behind and stuck in between them.
The whole point of using a cleanser is to get your skin to a clean slate. The other steps in your routine will work more effectively if your skin is cleared of the stuff we listed above.
Every skin type should cleanse at least once a day, preferably in the PM.
Oily skin types in general need more cleansing than dry skin types and may do so as part of their morning routine however it’s highly recommended that youdon’t cleanse more than twice a day no matter what type of skin you have because cleansers, especially harsher ones, will irritate and damage your skin in the long run.
The most important question to ask yourself regarding your cleanser is if your skin feels dry or tight after using it. If so, whatever you’re using is too strong and you’ll probably want something gentler.
In general foam based cleansers tend to be the strongest. They should only ever be used by the oiliest of skin types. Foam cleansers create a lot of bubbles when mixed with water. This is due to their ingredients which likely contain harsh surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and ammonium lauryl sulfate — all known skin irritants.
Nearly every ingredient in the sulfate family is too strong to be used on skin especially more sensitive skin which is prone to irritation. Gel and cream based cleansers are much gentler as they often don’t contain these ingredients.
Step 2: Toner
Toning is an important second step that completes the cleansing process, yet many people choose to leave this step out. In reality, toning should be considered an important part of the cleansing process. A good toner will remove any remaining bits of oil, dirt and debris left behind by the cleanser. More importantly, toner will help soothe, nourish and hydrate the skin while restoring its delicate pH balance! Witch hazel is a great toner to start with because it’s very gentle on the skin and is inexpensive!
Step 3 (Optional): Spot Treatment
If you’re struggling with acne, this is the step where you will directly treat it. Typically you will only apply spot treatments on specific problem areas rather than your entire face.
Here are some of the most popular spot treatments:
5 Natural Ingredients To Smooth Away Acne
Step 4: Moisturize
This is an essential step in any skincare routine. No matter your skin type and especially if your skin is showing all the signs of dehydration.
Common Symptoms of Dehydrated Skin:
• Feels very dry or tight after cleansing
• Prone to comedones (whiteheads & blackheads)
• No elasticity or “bounce”
• Has a lackluster and tired appearance overall
A moisturizer should always follow anytime you cleanse. Cleansers and strip your skin of unwanted grime and sebum but also remove much needed moisture which keeps skin healthy and radiant.
Dry skin ages faster so it’s important to replace moisture loss. It’ll give your skin that extra “bounce” it needs to liven up your appearance.
There are three main kinds of moisturizers — occlusives, emollients and humectants.
• Occlusives cover the skin with a thin barrier to prevent moisture from escaping.
• Emollients work by sinking into the skin improving elasticity and smoothing it out.
• Humectants work by attracting water vapor to the surface of the skin to keep it moisturized.
Moisturizers may contain a combination of these three elements.
Step 5: Sunscreen
No sunburn ≠ no skin damage.
Often times moisturizers also come with SPF protection so you can combine the previous step with this one. If yours doesn’t you’ll want to apply a thin layer of sunscreen over your face as the last step in your routine.
Especially if you’re going to be spending time outdoors. SPF 15 is alright for everyday regular use but SPF 30+ is better. Make sure you’re using something strong if it’s going to be sunny out or if you have lighter skin. Darker skin can get away with using a weaker sunscreen and it may even be ideal. Make sure your skin is producing enough Vitamin D!
Recap
The steps, in order, of a basic skincare routine:
1 Cleanse
2 Tone
3 Spot Treat (Optional)
4 Moisturize
5 Sunscreen (Optional if your moisturizer already has SPF protection)
Sources:
hansonskincare.com
maxmylooks.com
It’s beginning to get colder sooner than later this Fall! This cold weather and dry air results in dry skin which we all are not a fan of! Here are some tips on how to keep skin soft and glowing during the cold months!
1. Wash In Lukewarm Water
Hot showers and baths always feel good in the winter, but when you can, particularly when just washing your face or hands, choose lukewarm water to avoid stripping as many oils away from the skin.
2. Moisturize Immediately Afterwards
Applying moisture to damp skin after showering/bathing helps seal that dampness into the skin. Keep a bottle of mositurizer near the bathtub, shower stall, and at every sink and use liberally every time you wash.
3. Choose Moisturizer Carefully
Some over-the-counter moisturizers have petroleum-based ingredients that can actually further dry your skin in the winter months. Be sure to choose a smart formula that has natural, nourishing ingredients. Try an oil-based rather than a water-based moisturizer. It’ll help your skin retain moisture in the winter.
4. Protect
Wearing gloves and scarves is very helpful to protect skin from cold winds, rain, and snow. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen. Winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun, so apply a safe option like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to any exposed areas.
5. Humidify
Heating systems can dry out the air, so consider installing a humidifier in your home, particularly in your bedroom, to put moisture back into the air and help prevent your skin from drying out.
6. Drink
We tend to drink less water in the winter because we turn to hot drinks like hot chocolate and tea, but don’t forget that your skin needs hydration from the inside, out. A little warm water with lemon can be very refreshing and hydrating at the same time.
7. Overnight Moisturize
Dryer areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees have thin skin and tend to lose moisture faster than other areas on the body. Consider slathering on a deep moisturizing balm at night, then wear cotton gloves and socks to seal in the moisture until morning.
8. Exfoliate
Moisture can’t penetrate the skin if dead skin cells are too plentiful. Find an exfoliating mask and use it on your face and your hands, as well as gently on your lips, then follow immediately with moisture to truly see a smoother difference. Exfoliating body washes are also helpful in the winter months.
9. Avoid Toxins, Specifically Allergens and Irritants
Particularly if you have eczema dermatitis, or psoriasis, you have to avoid allergens and irritants that may trigger a flare up. Winter skin is more fragile, so avoid irritating fabrics (like wool) and chemical-laden detergents, and use mild cleansers and moisturizers designed for sensitive skin.
10. Hydrate From The Inside Out
Eating foods high in water content can help hydrate your skin from the inside out. Try watermelon, cantaloupe, apples, oranges, kiwi, and watery veggies like celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and carrots. Make sure you’re getting enough vitamin C and zinc to support the healthy production of collagen and elastin. Also consider an omega-3 supplement, or consume more fatty fish and flaxseeds to give your skin the building blocks it needs to appear supple and smooth.
11. Change Your Cleanser
Cleansers can be extremely drying to the skin. If you’re used to using options that contain glycolic or salicylic acid, rotate with a more hydrating version that contains moisturizing ingredients. After cleansing, don’t leave the skin naked for more than 30 seconds, as this can dehydrate it, leading to increased dryness. Apply a hydrating toner and moisturizer to seal in moisture.
12. Use DIY Masks
Homemade hydrating masks can provide needed moisture in the winter months. Use natural moisturizing ingredients like honey, avocado, yogurt, olive and jojoba oils, almond oil, bananas, and aloe. Mix what you like together to create a cream or paste, and leave on skin for 10-30 minutes for lasting hydration.
Beauty begins the moment
you decide to be yourself”
“Beauty begins the moment you decide to
be yourself”
1. LEMON
Lemon has citric acid which helps lighten the skin.
–Extract fresh lemon juice and rub it on skin using a cotton ball. Leave on for 10-15 mini, then wash off with water. Do this daily for a few months until you notice improvement.
–You could also prepare a facial mask with equal amounts of lemon juice and raw honey. Mix the ingredients well then apply to the affected skin. Cover skin with warm towel for 15 minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water. Do this once a week for a few months.
*if the lemon juice is too strong, add about 1 teaspoon of water to dilute the mixture.
2. RAW POTATO
Potatoes contain catecholase, an enzyme that is believed to help lighten skin tone.
–Peel a potato and cut into thick slices. Put a few drops of water in the surface of the potato piece and then rub on your skin for 5-10 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water. Do this 3-4 times daily for at least a month.
3. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
ACV does wonders when it comes to reducing the appearance of dark patches on the skin due to hyperpigmentation.
–Mix equal amounts of ACV and water. Use a cotton ball to apply to affected area. Leave on for 2-3 minutes then rinse off with lukewarm water. Follow this remedy twice a day for a few weeks.
4. VITAMIN E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant and neutralizes the effects of harmful UV rays of the sun and repairs and protects the skin.
–Puncture 2 or 3 Vitamin E capsule and outs th contents in a bow. Add 3-4 drops of castor oil to it and mix well. Apply the mixture on the affected skin before going to bed. Rinse it off the next morning. Follow this remedy daily for 2-3 weeks.
–Another option is to massage Vitamin E oil onto the affected skin for 10 minutes twice daily to reduce hyperpigmentation. Do this remedy for a few weeks until you get positive results.
5. TURMERIC
Turmeric has bleaching properties that can help get rid of the symptoms of hyperpigmented skin. Plus, turmeric can keep the skin free of infection.
–Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply to affected area and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse off with cold water. Avoid going into the sun for an hour after this treatment. Do this remedy once a day.
6. ALOE VERA
Aloe Vera has mucilaginous polysaccharides in the gel which works execellent on hyperpigmented skin. It can also remove dead skin cells and promote regeneration of new skin cells.
–Before going to bed, apply fresh aloe vera gel on the hyperpigmented skin and leave on overnight. Rinse off in the morning. Do this daily for a few weeks to get positive results.
Photo: Pexels.com
1. ItsMyRayeRaye
I’ve been following her channel for years and she is so great! She does a lot with testing different beauty products and she also does great makeup tutorials!
Click the link to check out her channel:
2. AmberRosee
She is a fellow friend of mine from Virginia who is a new Youtuber! I love her beauty videos because they are so detailed and pretty easy to follow along with!
Check out her channel below:
3. Styles By Fash
Can I just say I am a big fan of hers! She is so beautiful and talented! She also does hair tutorials, fashion lookbooks, and talks a lot about skincare as well!
Check her out!
Styles By Fash YouTube Channel
4. SunKissAlba
She is one of my favorite because she is big on using organic, all natural beauty products and I love it!
Here’s her channel:
5. Ghana Goddess
Last but not least is this talented beauty! I’ve been following her for years! I love her beauty videos and she tests out a variety of new beauty products that I’ve never heard of before that are worth trying out!
Visit her channel below:
I hope you guys will check their pages! You definitely won’t be disappointed! =)
Photos: Instagram.com; I do not own any rights to these photos posted above.
Just Brittany Moments 