8 Skincare Rules I Consistently Abide By

My favourite part of my morning is completing my skincare routine. Since I've gotten to grips with the world of skincare, my skin has never felt so good. From finding out my skin type, to what products I need and what order I apply them in, it's taken me a while, but I've got there. I read Caroline Hirons skinCARE book a few years ago, and it's been my skincare bible ever since.

Read my thoughts on Caroline Hirons' skinCARE book.

Don't get me wrong, I've made some mistakes along the way. As with everything, I've learned from my mistakes and made sure I've used products that my skin will thank me for not only for today, but for the more wrinkly, older me in the future.

I'm no expert in skincare. I have reviewed many items on my blog in the past, but by no means do I know the specific differences between my hyaluronic and my salicylic acids. But I do have skincare rules that I live by and stick to consistently. I think these rules have stemmed from mistakes I've previously made and common sense.

Here are the skincare rules I abide by:

1) Not swapping and shifting products all of the time

When it comes to the use of a product, I will always use up what I have first before changing anything. Don't get me wrong, there is a temptation to swap to something new. Especially when you get a PR package sent to you to try out. But I must resist that temptation and finish up what I'm currently using, no matter how full the bottle or tub is. 

Also, I think it does more harm to anyone's skin, swapping and changing skincare items all the time. My skin wouldn't know if it was coming or going!

2) Double cleanse at night

Your nighttime skincare routine is just as important as your morning routine. Your skin undergoes the repair and renewal process while you sleep. You need to apply products that will help your skin rejuvenate overnight before you wake up. 

It's not just about applying a night cream, it's about applying that eye cream, serum and most importantly, double cleansing. A double cleanse is so important to do in your nighttime routine. The first cleanse gets rid of the dirt and bacteria that's been loitering around on your face throughout the day. The second cleanse is the cleanse that truly cleanses your skin before sleeping. If you're someone who cleanses just once in the evening, I implore you - DO IT TWICE.

3) Wearing SPF all-year round (even if you're indoors)

This is one skincare rule I'm all for displaying on a big advertising board. SPF is not only your UV ray protection, but it also helps to prevent premature ageing. I know some don't see the point in wearing SPF protection during the colder months. But UV rays still shine through, even on the cloudiest of days. Also, if you're sitting all day, UV rays still shine through windows. Still apply it even when you're staying inside!

One thing I still need to get into the habit of doing, particularly in the Summer, is to top up my SPF during the day. If you're indoors, you need to reapply every 4-6 hours. But if you're outdoors and especially if you're doing activities such as swimming, exercising and after you're drying yourself off, you need to top it up more regularly.

SPF is life, not just for Summer! 

4) Always complete an allergy test before trying a new product

Whether you're using your favourite brand or a new brand, you need to do an allergy test. Even if you've been using your fave brand's products forever, when they bring out a new product, do an allergy test. They may have added an ingredient that your skin doesn't agree with. 

Any sign of itching or redness, that product is a definite no-no!

5) Never use wipes

Wipes are da istant memory for me. I have not used a wet wipe in soooo many years. I use reusable cotton pads and makeup remover cloths to remove makeup. I used to remember how dry my skin felt after using them. Plus, they're incredibly bad for the environment. I know you can get biodegradable ones now, but I still wouldn't buy them.

6) Keep it simple with my routine

I keep to a basic routine and use the standard type of skincare needed to achieve lovely skin. I stay away from retinol serums as I find them too strong for my skin. 

When it comes to choosing products, go by what your skin really needs. You'll go through a lot of trial and error when choosing and buying products, but you'll get there in the end.

7) Not forgetting the neck and chest

Oh, I'm terribly guilty of forgetting the neck and chest when it comes to moisturising. Experts say that the hands, neck and chest age first. So don't forget to buy a good hand cream and moisturise your neck and chest daily. Not only moisturise, but also apply that SPF to the neck and chest. Your 70-year-old future self will thank you.

8) Don't follow the herd when it comes to skincare trends/procedures

Just because a trend has worked wonders on someone you've watched on TikTok doesn't mean it's going to work on you. It's so easy to get sucked into a trend, whether it be a fashion or beauty trend. But don't follow the herd unless you REALLY think it can benefit your skin. 5 times out of 10, it won't work as well for you as it does for others.

Everybody treats skincare differently.

Some plaster their face in products, and some are very minimalistic with their skincare routine approach. I'm the latter. I'd rather apply skincare products that are more beneficial for my skin and its issues rather than apply dozens of products that barely do the job. 

One lesson to take from this is to do your research and find what works best for you. Once you get the right formula, you'll get glowing skin!

I'd love to know if you have any skincare rules you stick to!