What is skincare & Why is it important?

Who does not want to have skin like celebrities or their favorite actor/actress but Are you putting enough effort into taking care of your skin just like they do? 

Most of the answers to this question are No. That’s the reason you are reading this article now.

Nobody wants their skin to be filled with acne, which is dull, rough and looks chapped every time. Everybody wants flawless, glowing skin even when they grow old.

I will help you to achieve the same.

Welcome to the world of skincare where you will get to know about types of skin, best and worst practices for skincare, home remedies, how to treat skin according to the changing weather, etc.

Once you complete reading this article you will get to know a lot about skincare and if you start following the same then you are close to your dream to get skin like your favorite actor/actress and your skin will start aging backwards.

What is skincare?

As the name suggests skin-care which is taking care of your skin. 

Skincare is a range of practices which helps to support skin integrity, improves skin’s appearance and also relieves skin conditions. 

When we are talking about skin care we only think about the products that need to be used, What all products to be used and when to use. 

But before that there are other factors too which need to be taken care about like skin type, bad practices which affects the skin, sensitivity of skin, etc.

Importance of skincare:

It is important to care for your skin at an early stage which will later help you in the long run. Everybody wants to look beautiful, flawless even when they become old. Having good skin is also a sign of having good health. If health is good you will glow naturally. Also, skincare can prevent you from having any future skin issues if you start your skincare journey at the right time.

Why is it important to know your skin type?

Many people don’t have an idea about what type of skincare is needed for their skin. Because they are not aware what type of skin they have. There are commercials on the television saying this or that product is best and people tend to buy that particular product mindlessly. If the product is not according to your skin type then you might see its side effects. Your skin will start reacting against the product then what it actually suggests. Reading further this article will help you to know your skin type and step wise guide to determine your skin type.

Foremost, we will talk about the different types of skin and how to identify which skin type is yours.

Different types of skin:

1. Normal skin:

Normal skin is never too dry nor is it too oily. It has a regular texture which is soft, looks clean, no imperfections and also does not need any special care.

2. Dry skin:

Dry skin is a type of skin that does not have enough moisture in it to keep it feeling soft and hydrated. Dry skin looks like rough patches of your skin that may flake or look scaly sometimes. If your skin is dry, it’s not necessary that it will be itchy. One of the cases of having severe dry skin may be bleeding or cracking.

3. Sensitive skin:

Sensitive skin is more prone to react to stimuli to which normal skin has no reaction. It is a type of skin which usually coincides with feelings of discomfort, such as heat, tightness, redness or itchiness. This type of skin loses its protective layer and makes it easier for other microorganisms and irritant substances to enter it and increases the possibility of having an  infection and allergic reaction. It is a delicate skin which needs extra care to fight dryness, roughness and its usual appearance. 

4. Oily skin:

This type of skin produces an excess amount of sebum that causes the skin to appear shiny and greasy especially throughtout  the forehead, nose and chin. Oily skin is more prone to acne, pores, blackheads and whiteheads.

What is acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles under the skin become clogged. Sebum- oil that helps the skin from drying out and dead skin cells clog the pores which leads to an outbreak of pimples or zits. These  outbreaks are often seen on the face but can also occur on the back, chest and shoulders.

5. Combination skin

This type of skin is usually a combination of an oily skin which is oily forehead, nose and chin and dry skin which dries around the cheeks and jawline. Usually, a tough skin type to deal with and take care of.

How to determine your skin type?

To determine your skin type is an important step in everyone’s skincare routine as it helps you to know how your skin needs to be treated and what products to be used according to the skin type.

By following the below 3 steps you will get to know your skin type

Step 1: Start by washing your face with a mild cleanser and face wash

Step 2: Pat your skin dry and don’t apply any product.

Step 3: Leave your skin bare for about 30 minutes and start examining your skin.

Tip: You can keep your skin bare for another 30 minutes and then examine your skin again

Results can be checked as follows:

Normal skin: If you see slight shine on your nose or forehead then you are having normal skin.

Dry skin: If you have dry skin then your skin will feel waterless or tight when you smile.

Sensitive skin: If you have sensitive skin then your skin will feel a little itchy or turn red in tone.

Oily skin: If you have oily skin then there will be a lot of shine seen on your forehead, nose and cheeks.

Combination skin: If you have combination skin then your skin will get oily around the T-Zone i.e on the forehead, nose and chin.

With the above steps you will be able to determine your skin type and treat your skin in the right way.

What are the external factors that can affect your skin?

1. Winter Weather – Cold winter weather often causes the skin to  become dry and flaky for many. You may have noticed that your lips become chapped or your skin becomes flaky or might  become itchy during the winters. Winter winds often drains moisture from your skin to make sure you cover your skin so that it is not exposed to the biting wind.
   
2. Exposure to dust and Pollutants – Your skin may take a  direct hit if you work in a dusty environment. Exposure to pollutants, dust and chemicals may clog the pores and make your skin appear dull. Pollutants can cause acne too. During such times, cleanser is the most important thing in your skin care regimen. Using a cleanser 2 times a day will help to remove all the dirt from the skin. Make sure you use lukewarm water instead of hot. Forgetting to do so may result in clogged pores and blackheads so be particular about your skin care routine for maximum protection.
   

3. Poor diet – A poor diet is not healthy and your food choices may affect your skin. Your skin needs healthy fruits and vegetables that contain antioxidants to fight free radicals that may age your skin. Additionally ingredients like white sugar, sweets,  carbs and caffeine can cause acne, so limiting these ingredients in your diet. Adding cashews, barriers in your diet can help as some nuts and berries are rich in zinc and can help reduce inflammation.
   

4. Lack of Sleep – Having adequate amounts of sleep is very important for your skin. If you are suffering from insomnia or deprived of sleep you will notice that your skin becomes dull or is more prone to acne flare-ups, also you will notice dark circles around your eyes. Do yourself a favor and make sure you have 7-8 hours of sleep daily to keep your skin and body both healthy.
   
5. Exposure to Blue light – If you are staying at home and less exposed to dust, pollution, sun etc. and thinking that your skin is safe from damage, you may be wrong. If you are using your mobile, laptops to a great extent then the blue light which from these devices can affect your skin too. Too much exposure to electronic devices can make your skin dull and can speed the aging process and can also lead to pigmentation. When you start with your skincare make sure before going to bed at night you follow all the night skincare routine and apply all the necessary products to your skin and that should be the last thing to do at the end of the day. Make sure you don’t use your phone before going to bed and after your night skincare routine is done.
   

Also refer: Bad habits that affect the skin

Few tips that will help you your skin to be less prone to damage:

1. Always stay hydrated and drink plenty of water by doing that your skin  has less chances to get dried out.
   
2. Also applying moisturizer to your skin is very important during winters. Make sure you use moisturizer which is dermatologically tested.
   
3. We often become tempted to warm ourselves by wanting to take hot showers during winters. But that can affect the skin by making it dry and irritate the skin. Better to use warm water instead of hot water.
   

Also refer: Other good practices that help you get clear skin

Lastly, regular taking care of your skin can provide a host of mental and physical health benefits. Using quality skincare products as a part of your daily skincare routine can improve feelings of self-worth and trigger mood-boosting chemicals. You can also combine your skincare routine with meditation to step away from stressors, pause, focus on yourself and hit the reset button. Making skincare a part of your daily life can help you discover self-love too.

Also refer to similar posts:

Summer skincare routine for all skin type

Healthy food that help you to get clear skin