When it comes to beauty, we gals automatically think cosmetics and makeup. But in order for the “enhanced beauty” to work, we must also work with our inner beauty first! I’m talking about taking care of your skin so that the supplemental beauty (i.e., foundation, eyeshadow, etc.) can help complement your skin.

So, here at Lovelyish, we’re showcasing a new feature called, “Skincare 101.” Basically it’s a feature dedicated all about taking care of your skin, whether it’s the face or the body. I, Crystal, will be reviewing skincare products, skincare tips, introducing you to alternative/natural ways for caring the skin, and more! 

Today, I’ll be covering three essential facial products that every gal (and guy!) should have. Now, unless you’ve been blessed with gorgeous skin and just need water to cleanse your face, then you don’t need to read on! But, for most of us, we need some outside help for that department. Although I do not have perfect skin, I’ve used these three products to try to better my skin.

So, next time you go shopping for these products, keep these tips in mind!

 

Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash – great for all skin types! ($6.49)

1. Facial Cleanser
The first step towards good skincare is finding an appropriate cleanser for your skin type. Usually there are four categories in skin type: normal, dry, combination (dry + oily), and oily. Make sure you find an appropriate cleanser for your skin type. Also, if you are prone to blemishes/pimples, find a cleanser that targets acne with ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, aloe vera, and witch hazel. 

Why: A good cleanser can help cleanse your face without harming it. Also, if you wear makeup on a daily basis, a good cleanser should be able to wash that off – if not, then you can invest on makeup wipes. The appropriate cleanser can also help maintain your face pH balance to protect the skin. Just make sure you cleanse your face no more than twice a day (even for those with oily skin)!

 


Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion – for all skin types! ($7.99)

2. Moisturizer
You might be thinking, wait, what about the toner – like the three step skincare that Clinique has? Toners are NOT essential to skincare because not everybody needs this. The toner’s main objective is to remove any excess dirt and oil that the cleanser was not able to do. If you found a good cleanser that does this already, you wouldn’t need a toner. But, what you do need is a moisturizer. I swear by this and many other beauty gurus do as well. To be on the safe side, try to find a moisturizer that wouldn’t clog pores with the label of “non-comedogenic.”

Why: As I mentioned before, it is important to maintain your pH balance of the face so that your skin is free (or at least try to be) of outside impurities. A moisturizer acts as an extra barrier to protect your pH balance from going haywire. Again, like choosing a facial cleanser, don’t just choose any moisturizer – choose one that is appropriate for your skin type. Moisturize twice a day after cleansing.

 

Neutrogena Age Shield Face Sunblock SPF 55 - oil-free, fragrance-free, and doesn’t clog pores! ($7.99)

3. SPF (Sunblock/Sunscreen)
Ever wonder why practically every moisturizer and makeup product contain some sort of SPF (Sun Protection Factor)? It’s because studies have shown that the sun’s rays (sunlight) causes 90% of wrinkles and freckles! Since we can’t stay indoors all the time, the next best thing is to protect our face AND skin with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Why: The sun’s rays are very harmful and that’s why a lot of dermatologists do not recommend tanning (not even with tanning beds) because tanning weakens the outer layer skin. Hmm, the cast of Jersey Shore should definitely be taking notes on this! Also, make sure you only apply SPF during the daytime when the sun is out and throughout the day. If you use sunscreen/sunblock as a nighttime moisturizer, it will just irritate your skin! You can apply sunscreen/sunblock after moisturizing in the morning.

What are your favorite products to use, Lovelies?