Everyone gets frustrated with their skin from time to time. Whether you suffer from acne, dry skin, or a condition like melasma, these problems are common. Unfortunately, combating these skin concerns can be challenging, especially if you don’t know where to start.
There are hundreds, maybe even thousands, of skincare products claiming to be the solution to perfect skin. Unfortunately, you can’t trust every advertisement you see online. Sure, some of these products may be effective, but some aren’t. Not to mention what works for one person may not work for everyone. That’s why it’s important to ensure you’re buying products that are truly designed to benefit your skin. And thankfully, this article will help.
Here are a few tips and products you should consider buying to help you achieve clear skin:
1. Address Your Skin Concerns
Do you suffer from skin conditions, like melasma? Join the club. Melasma is a relatively common skin condition that causes dark-colored patches and spots on the face. It can be caused due to hormonal changes, like pregnancy, or ultraviolet radiation from sun damage. And while common, melasma can be challenging to treat — but it’s not impossible.
Hydroquinone is considered an effective treatment for melasma. This prescription cream works by limiting your production of melanin, which is the hormone responsible for darkening the skin. And while many people use hydroquinone to treat melasma, it can also help clear dark spots brought on by other factors, like acne. Hydroquinone can even fade the appearance of wrinkles and liver spots.
It’s important to note there are several treatments available to help fade dark spots. But many are expensive or require regular visits to an aesthetic specialist. Hydroquinone is an easy-to-use prescription cream that offers results, and you can apply it from the comfort of your home.
2. Regularly Wash Your Face
Dermatologists say the best way to achieve clear skin is by regularly washing your face. And not just once a day — twice a day. You may not realize it, but your skin is exposed to so much dirt each day. During the day, it comes into contact with bacteria, excess oil, and dead skin cells that can cause acne.
The only way to rid your skin of that dirt is by washing it. So while it may seem time-consuming, washing your face twice a day can go a long way in helping you achieve a clear complexion. As a rule of thumb, wash your face when you wake up and before bed.
If you exercise during the day, wash your face immediately afterward. Even if it brings you over your “twice a day” recommendation, it’s essential to cleanse after a sweaty workout. To ensure you’re getting an effective clean, choose a gentle cleanser. (More about that later.) If it helps you remember to wash your face, a cleansing brush can also be a beneficial tool.
3. Re-Think Your Towels
Chances are, you think the secret to clear skin is finding the right products. While skincare products play a crucial role, there’s something else you may want to consider — your towels.
Believe it or not, bacteria and debris collect on your towels, like on your skin. And using the same towel (or washcloth) repeatedly can lead to blemishes. Having a designated face towel rather than using the same one for your face and body is also a good idea. The last thing you want is for the bacteria from your body to move onto your face.
If you don’t already, make sure you’re regularly washing your towels throughout the week to avoid bacteria buildup. While laundry is one of the worst chores, it’s better than transferring dirt, oil, and other gunk to your face. If it makes life easier, simply have multiple face towels at your disposal so that you can alternate throughout the week.
4. Use The Right Cleanser
Now that you know the importance of washing your face, you should consider the products you use. One of the best things you can do for your skin is to use an effective cleanser.
For those who don’t know, a cleanser rids your skin of dirt, oil, makeup, pollution, and other impurities. Think of cleansers like dish soap; they latch on to dirt and then wash it away when rinsed. However, this doesn’t mean you should apply dish soap to your skin. Instead, use a facial cleanser designed specifically for the skin.
Cleansers come in different forms, like foam and gel, and contain various ingredients. When choosing a cleanser, make sure you’re picking it based on your skin type. For example, if you have acne-prone skin, consider a foam or gel cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients, like salicylic acid. If your skin is dry, you might look for an option with added moisture. Hydrating ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin can help those with dry skin.
Finding the right products is important for achieving clear and flawless skin, but washing your face is the foundation. Without the right cleanser and a stable routine, your skin can’t reach its potential. So, consider using the tips and products above to help you get better skin.
