Having adjusted to your basic skincare regimen, you might be wondering how to introduce new products. And the main question is: how to introduce new skincare products? Of course, that is obvious right?! 😀
Well, guys, it is no surprise that when you have established a basic skincare routine and your skin feels happier and healthier with the products you are using, you can venture into other products that target specific skin problems such as acne, hyperpigmentation, ageing and so on.
It won’t take you long to discover that there are a whole host of additional products like toners, direct acids, and everything else in between. You may find the process both exciting and intimidating, but do not worry! With guidance and research, you should be fine. In the post, we will not only look at the additional products and what they are often used for but also some of the products that you can try out!
Lastly, I will briefly provide some tips to make it easier for you. After all, my mission is to try to help as many people as I possibly can! 🙂
Quick declaimer: as the owner of the website I have tracked down some of the products and services mentioned. Therefore, when using the links on this page to make a purchase I may get a small commission. Additionally, as an Amazon Associate, I also earn from qualifying purchases. Full disclosure. Guys while I can get some commission back, I’m quite confident that you on the contrary you may have found the perfect product that could work for you! So its a win to win situation really!
What are the additional skincare products?
Besides the three most essential skincare products and steps (Cleanser, Moisturiser and Sunscreen) there are other steps and products to consider as you progress especially when addressing certain skin concerns.
The most popular ones are:
Let’s look at each one of them and what they are usually used for;)
Product: Toner
What it Does:
Helps remove excess oil or grime that your cleanser may have missed. The formula also helps hydrate the skin.
- How to Use it: You should apply a few drops to your fingertips and gently rub them into your skin. Although some would do it, it is not a good idea to squirt it on a cotton pad first, since it will simply soak up much of the product.
- When should you use it? You should apply it after cleansing, before applying any other skincare like moisturiser or makeup.
#Try: – For dry or sensitive skin: Herbivore Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Mist which hydrates and refreshes stressed skin with coconut water and soothing aloe.
– For all skin types: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant contains salicylic acid, a choice ingredient for both gentle exfoliation and to minimize oil production, plus antioxidant-rich green tea.
Product: Serum
What it Does:
A serum does sorts of things. It typically contains a much higher concentration of active ingredients than a moisturizer, so it can treat any and every skincare concern.
- How to Use it: The first step is to find one that meets your specific skincare needs. Cleanse your skin first, then apply a serum before you apply moisturizer. If you do it the other way around, it will not be able to penetrate the skin.
- When to Use it: Morning and/or night. It is however preferable to use it in the morning.
#Try: Cerave Vitamin C Serum which contains hyaluronic acid (an amazing ingredient for dry and sensitive skin) the serum helps hydrate, soften and brighten uneven skin tone.
– For dry skin: Avene Hydrance Intense Rehydrating Serum quenches parched skin. It contains hydrating ingredients that keep moisturising the skin for over 24 hours period.
Product: Eye Cream
What it Does:
This product is designed to treat skin conditions around your eyes (such as puffiness and dark circles).
- How to Use it: Using your ring finger (usually your weakest finger), pat a tiny amount around each eye. You should avoid rubbing or tugging on the skin in this area because it is super delicate.
- When to Use it: Morning and/or night.
#Try: For dark undereye circles: Balance Me Wonder Eye cream has light-reflecting particles and cucumber extract to brighten dark circles.
As an eye cream Vaseline has also been proven to work well under the eyes according to @doctorly (one of my favourite online dermatologists). According to him, Vaseline is the most effective occlusive moisturiser and prevents 99% of water loss at night!
He recommends applying a gentle moisturiser first then followed by Vaseline. Just be cautious that it may cause milia around the eye for some particularly if you are prone to it.
Product: Mask
What it Does:
In minutes, your skin will be brightened, cleansed, and/or hydrated.
- How to Use it: Place the sheet mask over your face (or slather it on all over) and let it do its thing while you relax. Do you feel like watching Netflix and wearing a mask?
- When to Use it: You can use it once a week or before a big event as a quick skin pick-me-up.
#Try: – I like to use the Face Shop Korean sheet mask which comes with a variety of options and I like to use honey, aloe vera, shea butter and cucumber one. Shop here 😉
You can also check the best face masks for dry sensitive skin according to experts here.
Spot treatments
Spot treatments are often used to treat more serious skin concerns, such as acne. Some of the most common spot treatments are benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and antibiotics which are standard treatments for different types of acne. For people with extremely sensitive skin, azelaic acid is the best topical treatment. If you are not familiar with the acid, check what azelaic acid is.
Exfoliation
Exfoliation is another additional part of every skincare routine to remove dead skin cells, clear clogged pores, and slough away dead skin cells. It also helps brighten and smooth skin complexion. When it comes to sensitive skin, it can be difficult to find products and a technique that doesn’t irritate or dry out the skin.
Exfoliators are beneficial for all skin types, but if you have sensitive skin, you mustn’t exfoliate too harshly or aggressively. It is advised to use a gentle chemical exfoliator with a lower concentration of acid (10% or lower). For instance, lactic acid is the way to go if you are just getting started since it is one of the mildest acids out there. ‘
Also, mandelic acid can be an option if you are opting for a slightly gentler formula (but less effective). For more insights about these two acids check:
Easy tips to follow:
The first thing to consider is your skin type. It is simple and easy to determine what type of skin you have.
Start by introducing one product at a time. By doing this, you’ll be able to see what each product does for your skin. Introduce new additions one at a time, waiting a month between each.
To make sure a product is compatible with your skin, patch test it before using it all over your face or body. Most importantly, listen to your skin and pay attention to how it reacts.
For more info, check the 9 key points on how to take your skincare routine to the next level.
To conclude here are some of the most popular additional products to consider. Remember to take things slowly and get to know and understand your skin. Taking your time will help you find the right skincare for you and understand what your skin needs! Remember that consistency and patience are key here! And what might work for someone might not work for someone else! If you have additional questions, please drop them down below. I’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have! 🙂
