Taking care of your skin is an act of self-love and health. With so many options on the market, knowing the order and function of each product is key to an effective skincare routine.
How many times have we heard the phrase: what’s important is what’s inside? Without a doubt, when we talk about our body, “what’s inside” is essential, but we must also take care of “what’s outside.” In this sense, it is essential to talk about the skin.
The skin is the largest organ in the human body and also one of the most exposed since part of its function is to serve as a barrier and protect us from the environment.
Every day we face factors such as the sun, smoke, and pollution. One of the most important ones – and one that we cannot avoid – is the passing of time.
Beyond aesthetics, skin care should be considered part of health, since, according to data recorded in 2021 by the Dr. Bernardo del Valle S. Cancer Institute and Hospital (INCAN) , skin cancer accounted for 7.6% of the total diagnoses in that hospital.
We often forget about this organ and are not aware of how easily it can be damaged. According to dermatologist and skin surgeon Maureen Barahona, “the skin is damaged not only by external agents such as pollution and radiation but also with age.”
In addition, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the skin can also alert us to health problems, allergies, rashes or infections.
Therefore, establishing an adequate skincare routine is essential to maintain healthy skin and prevent future problems. Not to mention that healthy skin has positive effects on mental health, as it improves our appearance and self-esteem.
What is skincare and why is it so important?
Skincare is the set of habits and products we use to care for and protect our skin. It is not just about looking good, but also about keeping the skin in optimal condition. As a dermatologist and dermatopathologist specializing in laser therapy, Liza Arias explains: “The skin is a reflection of our health and protects us from external factors.”
A well-designed skincare routine can prevent premature aging, spots, acne, and other skin conditions. In addition, as dermatologist Eva Oliva points out: “The skin has a dynamic balance and is constantly regenerating, so the care we give it will influence its ability to repair itself.”
What is the order of application of skincare products?
To create a good skincare routine, we should not apply products just for the sake of applying them. The order is key to their effectiveness. According to Barahona: “The order of application influences their degree of absorption.”
One of the most commonly used options is to apply products from lowest to highest density: first the serums and then the creams.
Essential products in a basic skincare routine
Daily skincare routine
- Cleansing: Use a dermo-cleanser suitable for your skin type. “Washing your face is essential to remove accumulated impurities,” says Arias. In addition, it should be done both in the morning and at night.
- Hydration: “No matter what type of skin we have, hydration is essential,” explains Arias. Therefore, it is important to apply a moisturizing cream or gel after cleansing.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen is the most important step. “It should be broad spectrum, with SPF greater than 30, and applied every two to three hours,” recommends Dr. Barahona.
Additionally, antioxidant serums such as vitamin C can also be used during the day, which helps reduce dark spots. These should be applied before moisturizing.
Oliva also recommends that women use makeup with sun protection, as it provides additional protection against the sun’s rays.
Night skincare routine
- Cleansing: For the evening, Oliva suggests double cleansing: first with micellar water and then with a dermo-cleanser. Also, if you wear makeup, it is essential to remove it completely to avoid residue.
- Treatment: Apply serums or creams with active ingredients such as retinoids or glycolic acid, if necessary. “At night, the skin absorbs products better,” explains Oliva. For this step, it is important to consult with a dermatologist so that they can recommend the appropriate treatment according to your skin type and specific needs.
- Hydration: Finish your routine with a moisturizer to repair your skin while you sleep.
Additionally, depending on the needs of your skin, you can apply a non-abrasive exfoliant once a week.
Keep in mind that not all skin types are the same, and your routine should be tailored to each skin type’s specific needs. However, according to Barahona: “Classifying skin types as dry, combination or oily is limiting; the important thing is to identify what problem we want to solve.”
Finally, experts argue that the routines should be carried out by everyone at home and recommend complementing them with a healthy diet, hydration, and exercise.
Common mistakes in skincare
Experts agree that many errors arise from a lack of information. Some of the most common are:
- Using cooking products: “Garlic, lemon or onion can cause burns,” warns Barahona.
- Overloading your skin: “Applying too many products can overwhelm your skin and cause irritation,” explains Oliva. Plus, using too many products won’t allow each one to do its job, so you’ll just be wasting your products.
- Not using sunscreen: “Without protection, no treatment will work,” Arias emphasizes.
- Not going to a professional: Following a skincare routine recommended by a social media influencer could be harmful to your skin, as it will not be adapted to your needs.
- Not following a routine: “Products take time to take effect,” says Barahona. Therefore, it is important not to change your routine constantly.
Dermatological consultations should be carried out at least once a year. If there is a special need, such as acne, the frequency will depend on the indication of the health professional.