I would always say that I gained a lot from motherhood. Other than my weight, I also gained happiness, love, maturity, generosity, and many more. And while I gained many, I also lost some. For one, I lost a good night’s sleep. And with that, I also lost many of the things I enjoyed being single. Gone are the days when I can lie in bed and enjoy some music.
More so, I lost my flawless and glowing skin as I have aged as well. Investing in a skincare routine was not an issue when I was single and young. I mostly only needed facial cleansers and face powder. And occasional pimples were the only complaint I have with my skin.
But everything had changed when I became a mother. Not only did I have difficulties with pimples, but I had problems with dry skin, milia, warts, skin pigmentations, and dull skin. Initially, I tried to learn to live with all of my skin problems. It is so because self-care was at the bottom of my priorities.
All of these were until I learned the value and benefits of self-care. And with it, I started to establish my skincare routine. And I am so glad that I did.
Four Basic Skincare for Healthy Glowing Skin
- Cleansing
Cleansing is the most basic skincare routine that even sleep-deprived moms can do. But the most critical factor is to cleanse our skin with gentle cleansing products. It means that our facial cleanser should be able to clean our skin from impurities such as pollutants, excess oil, make-up, and dead skin cells. But at the same time, it should be gentle enough to maintain our natural skin moisturizers.
Toner is another way to clean our skin in addition to facial wash. It helps balance the skin ph, remove excess oil, and build-up of dead skin in the pores. Thus, toners are best for oily or acne-prone skin.
Most products now are sold by set depending on different skin types. So it is necessary to know your skin type before choosing the right cleanser for you for optimal benefit.
Another option is the double-cleansing. It is usually done by cleansing first with an oil-based cleanser then followed with a water-based cleanser. It is especially beneficial for those who wear make-ups or those exposed to air pollution.
2. Exfoliation
Exfoliation is the most under-appreciated skincare routine. And this is a great mistake of many women as exfoliation removes dead skin cells – the culprit to dull-looking skin.
Exfoliation is a great anti-aging skincare routine. This routine mimics the natural skin exfoliation of younger skin like those of babies. Exfoliating also boosts skin circulation in our skin to maximize the distribution of nutrients.
This routine also even-out skin tone and unclog pores. It also helps in the faster absorption of skin products.
Experts recommend exfoliating your skin at least 2-3 times a week.
3. Spot treatment
Spot treatment is a term used for treating skin problems such as pimples, scars, or dark spots. But for us simple moms, I would regard spot treatment as any other products such as eye cream, serum, and problem remedy products. This way, it is easy for us to remember.
As a rule of thumb, skin products should be applied from the lightest to heavier products. Also, give ample time for your product to get absorbed before applying your moisturizers.
I recommend applying your spot or skin treatment at night. This way, you have more time to wait for your products to be fully absorbed. Plus, you get the whole night to enjoy it. Remember, night time is the time for our body to rejuvenate as well.
4. Moisturizing
Never shy away from moisturizers. If all else fails, remember to maintain cleansing and moisturizers. Our number one enemy as moms is dry skin, and this gives birth to dull skin, wrinkles, peeling, breakouts, etc. Our skin is the first line of defense against harsh environments and harmful microorganisms. If we have dry skin, our skin cannot protect us. Thus, various skin problems could easily result from dry skin.
All skin types need moisturizers, may it be dry skin or oily skin. Again, specific products are for particular skin-type. Those with oily skin type usually have a very light texture and water-based products to supplement moisture without adding to the greasy feeling.
Moisturizers are also a great way to lock-in your skin products for optimal absorption. Make sure to allow some time for the product to get absorbed before applying your moisturizers. However, avoid letting your face too dry before applying moisturizers. This way, you lock in moisture and products at the same time.
For daytime use moisturizers with sunblock or SPF, especially if you are not using make-up with SPF. UV rays from the sun or artificial sources can add to skin age can significantly cause wrinkles, leathery texture, or uneven skin tone.
Skin Care Routine Starts with Selfcare
You deserve healthy glowing skin! And that is not impossible to achieve even if you are a busy mom. The first step is to learn how to take care of yourself.
Your skincare products do not have to be expensive to be effective. Remember to choose the right product for your skin type and be consistent with your skincare routine. And the most important is that you take care of your overall health. Make sure to drink lots of water, exercise regularly, and eat healthily. You can never go wrong as long as you take care of yourself as you take care of your family.
If you need help with choosing the right product for you, check out my favorite natural products that I use. You can also ask me more questions here or through the contact page.
Have a wonderful skincare routine mommies!