Your “how to” guide to skincare: An easy skincare regimen to rejuvenate and replenish

Taking care of your skin is one of the most important investments you can make.

With a few simple steps at home, you can help prevent premature ageing and avoid skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, dullness and sagging.

Here is an easy skincare regimen that will rejuvenate and replenish your complexion for years to come.

1) Cleanse and exfoliate

A good cleanser is one that doesn’t leave your skin feeling tight and like it’s about to crack. Those with a drier skin can afford to skip the morning cleanse and just use water, but combination and oily skin types should cleanse morning and night for cellular turnover. Avoid sleeping in your makeup at all costs! Exfoliation allows serums and moisturisers to sink deeper into your skin. There are two types of exfoliation: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliation involves the use of small grains a, a brush or scalpel to remove dead skin cells, and should only be undertaken once or twice a week. It’s important to note that the wrong product may cause micro-tears to your epidermis, which is why it’s so important to consult experts like us about which products would work best for you. We may even recommend a series of microdermabrasion treatments if you require more intense professional exfoliation. Chemical exfoliation is widely considered more effective and gentler on your skin than physical exfoliation. This form of exfoliation, using alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) for example, can be undertaken daily. AHAs are derived from natural substances and are gentler than BHAs, which are oil-soluble molecules that reach deeper into the skin and pores.

2) Tone if necessary

Toners are a great option for people who have excessively oily skin or large open pores. These water-based liquids often contain active ingredients to combat specific issues. Some toners help remove oil and makeup residue, while others may contain glycolic acid to exfoliate acne-prone skin or thermal spring water to calm sensitive skin. If you do require a toner, apply a small amount to a cotton pad and gently dab it around your face, neck and décolletage after cleansing.

3) Load up on vitamins

Vitamins A, B and C are particularly important for skin repair. Retinoids, which are derived from vitamin A, reduce wrinkles and improve smoothness, while niacinamide, a derivative of vitamin B3, improves the skin’s ability to retain moisture. Vitamin C helps combat free radicals that cause wrinkles, sagging and other signs of ageing, while also fading brown spots. Look for a serum that’s loaded with these essential vitamins. As a general rule, you should apply your skincare products from the lightest in weight to the heaviest. For example, we stock a fabulous entry-level range of cosmeceuticals from The Skincare Company, and their Hyaluronic B5 Serum is lighter than their Vitamin C Antioxidant Serum, so you would apply it first.

4) Moisturise

The type of moisturiser you use will depend largely upon your skin type, but even if you have an oilier complexion, it’s imperative to hydrate your skin. Moisturising improves the texture and tone of your skin, while also helping to ward off wrinkles and fine lines. Be sure to moisturise the delicate skin around your eyes, as well as your décolletage, as this area is often overlooked. More mature skin may benefit from moisturisers with peptides or retinoids, which boost collagen and elastin reserves. Book a consultation and we’ll offer expert advice about the kind of moisturiser that may work best for you.

5) Apply sunscreen religiously

Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB is one of the best ways to protect against premature ageing, sun spots, and skin cancer. Try to avoid sun exposure between 10am and 2pm, and wear protective gear such as hats and sunglasses. For an extra level boost of protection, use a vitamin C serum underneath your sunscreen.

Whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, a little bit of love can go a long way towards maintaining a glowing complexion. And in addition to taking care of your skin at home, why not try some of our complementary treatments?

Southern Cosmetics

324 Bluff Road, Sandringham
P: 03 9533 1100
E: [email protected]