How to Build A Skincare Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide

Building a skincare routine can be overwhelming. With all of the trendy ingredients, endless ads and the mountain of skincare products on the market, it can be tough to know what’s really best for your skin. But never fear: Amame is here to help! Today, we are sharing the essentials of a good & nourishing skincare routine. After all, your skin loves you. So why not love it back?

With any skincare routine, it’s important to remember that consistency is key. Results often take time to show, and everyone’s skin is different. So be patient when trying out new products or a new routine. The investment will be worth it!

Step 1: Cleanse your skin.

Your skin takes quite the beating during the day, especially from UV rays, pollution and your daily makeup. That’s why it’s so important to cleanse your skin! Use a gentle cleanser to wash your skin at least once a day. (Oily skin types can handle cleansing twice a day, but it’s most important to cleanse at night to remove dirt, oil and makeup before bed.) Watch out for cleansers that contain harsh ingredients like alcohol, which can deplete the natural oils in your skin. That tight feeling you can get is not your friend!

Step 2: Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

As the day goes on, your skin loses valuable hydration. To keep your skin balanced, smooth and soft, use a moisturizer at least twice a day. You can find formulas that are designed for your specific skin type, such as thick, nutrient-rich oils for dry skin or lightweight, fast-absorbing creams for oily skin.

But remember: moisturizers will only go so far. You have to keep your body hydrated as well! Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential in maintaining your body’s health, but it also goes a long way in making your skin hydrated and healthy all over.

Step 3: Apply your SPF always.

Your skin is exposed to UV radiation all year long, not just during the summer time. UV rays actually damage your skin cells and can lead to premature aging, sun spots and even skin cancer. No matter what time of year and no matter the weather (yes, even when it’s cloudy!), always wear sunscreen on your face and body to protect your skin.

Step 4: Exfoliate at least once a week.

Exfoliating is an important part of your skincare routine, as it helps loosen and clear away dead skin cells and other debris that have accumulated on your skin. So once a week, swap out one of your cleansing sessions with an exfoliating session to maintain your skin health. Be sure to follow it up with a moisturizer and/or SPF!

Level up your skincare routine.

Ready to take your skincare routine to the next level? Then it may be time to add treatments that can help you meet your skincare goals. Serums are full of skin-loving nutrients and can be used to treat a variety of concerns -- from protection against free radicals, anti-aging effects or just dehydrated skin. For a nourishing and brightening boost, check out our Turmeric & Lemon Brightening Face Serum. Toners can also be a great addition to your skincare routine. They restore hydration to the skin after you cleanse, bring the pH level of your skin back to normal, and prep your pores for serums and moisturizers to be absorbed. A good rule of thumb is to apply products from thinnest to thickest, so an ideal skincare regimen would start with a cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer and then sunscreen.

A few extra tips

• Keep a gentle face cleanser in the shower and use it towards the end of your shower or bath. The warm water will have opened your pores by that time, so you will get a deeper clean.

• The need for cuticle oil is REAL. Any oil-based face serums can also do wonders to support healthy nail growth when consistently applied to your cuticles. So after applying your oil-based serum to your face, massage any excess product remaining on your hands into your cuticles.

• Any nourishing or anti-aging treatments that you apply to your face should also be applied to your neck, décolletage and the backs of your hands. Your neck, upper chest and hands can provide a dreaded hint at your age, so make sure you take time to treat all of your skin. Your future self will thank you for it!

• Be gentle! Your skin is very delicate, so make sure you touch your skin very gently when applying products -- especially around your eyes. Harsh rubbing and pulling can be damaging to your skin.

*The information provided in this Blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.