ROUTINE BUSINESS

Take time out for your skin this winter to create the perfect regime for a healthy glow just in time for summer

When it comes to skincare, everyone’s approach is different. Some follow a 10-step regime in search of complexion perfection, while others follow a more streamlined routine of cleanse, tone, moisturise, or even just soap (no judgement). Whether you choose to be a maximalist or minimalist with your skincare, having a routine is essential for optimal skin health and perfect application of makeup. Roberta Donovan, Global Skincare Marketing Manager at Ascendis Health explains: “The skin is your largest organ, therefore just as you take care of your heart, liver and lungs you should also be taking care of your skin. It is a long-term investment in lifelong skin health. When you’re young, it’s easy to get away with not caring for your skin or looking after it properly, but at some point it catches up with you as your skin’s ageing process starts.”

So where do you start to build your routine in a world that has a new skincare innovation every day? First, figure out what your skin type is. It is advisable to seek the assistance of a dermatologist to receive an accurate diagnosis, but there is a simple rule of thumb. If your skin tends to produce a lot of shine all over and you’re prone to acne, then you may have oily skin. If your skin appears dull, feels immediately tight after cleansing and sometimes flakes, you may have dry skin. If you have some dry areas around the face but your T-zone (nose, forehead and chin) gets oily, then you’re most likely a combination skin type. Once your skin type has been established, you can choose your ideal type of cleanser and moisturiser. “Always cleanse the skin, never skip this step,” says Roberta Donovan, “Apply a complementary day and night cream, exfoliate two to three times a week and always use an SPF, especially in SA’s sunny yet harsh climate.” Dry skin types should go for cream cleansers or cleansing oils that will add hydration to the skin as they remove dirt. Oily skin types should cleanse with gel or clay cleansers that will not add oil to the skin, and combination skins can use a mixture of the two or combination-specific cleansers. As the seasons change, so should your routine. In winter your cleanser should be richer and creamier to provide more hydration. It is also advisable to incorporate a barrier protector.