Combining products and ingredients to make a comprehensive, effective routine that doesn't leave your skin compromised or irritated is one of the nuances of esthetics that takes a long time to understand and put effectively into action.
So I'm here to give you a little cheat sheet. How often do you use salicylic acid? How often do you use retinol? What about vitamin c? Can you mix these products?
Please remember, this is a very basic and 'intro' version of this information and is not an exhaustive or 'strict rule' type of list. If you have specific questions about your skin and your routine, always consult an esthetician or your dermatologist. I provide personalized online skin consultations here if you are interested :)
The basics:
AM routine should, at the very minimum, consist of:
- cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF
PM routine should, at the very minimum, consist of:
- cleanser and moisturizer
Easy enough right? So how and when do you incorporate more advanced 'treatment' products?
AM products:
- vitamin C: can be used every day if tolerated well
- toner: hydrating/nourishing/balancing toner can be used every day, acid toners should be used 2-3 times per week if tolerated well
- niacinamide: can be used every day, or alternated with vitamin c
- salicylic acid: can be used every day if tolerated well, do not mix with vitamin c
- eye cream: every day
PM products:
- acids: can be used 2-3 times per week, depending on skin tolerance
- eye cream: every night
- retinol: can be used up to 5 nights per week, starting slow and working up to more frequent use (not to be mixed with acids)
- toner: hydrating/nourishing/balancing toner can be used every day, acid toners should be used 2-3 times per week if tolerated well (acid toners not to be mixed with retinol)
This should help guide you in how often to use products in your routine. Please let me know if you have any questions! I'm always happy to chat :)
Xoxo
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