TOP 5 SKINCARE SECRETS FOR GLOWING SKIN

Written by ELLA i SKiN on September 21, 2021.

Who doesn’t want to know the best kept secrets that lead to flawless, youthful skin? But, let’s be honest, you’ve heard it all: drink more water, eat more fruits and veggies, exfoliate and mask regularly, get more sleep… zzz. Yes, all great advice but they are the same repetitive suggestions. We have a few transformative tips of our own that you might not want to hear or accept – but you really should know! Here are 5 (easy) skincare secrets you need to know for healthy, glowing skin.

1. Garbage In. Garbage Out.

Rubbish in. Rubbish out. Yes, this phenomenon can be applied to your skincare too. If you are using skincare with poor ingredients, you can expect a poor outcome. Fancy bottles and catchy promises can lure you into a purchase that you might not see results from. This skincare secret is a true game changer. Toss those chemical products – we beg of you! Your skin will thank you!

Paraben Preservatives

The use of preservatives in skincare and cosmetics is important to help prevent from bacteria & mold growth, damage and instability. “Microorganisms grow readily in water, and most cosmetic products contain water as the largest or one of the largest ingredients. Additionally, the nutrients, vitamins, and many of the active ingredients in cosmetics can make excellent microorganism food. Thus, providing a prime environment to fuel their growth.” (Anderson).

Paraben preservatives are man-made, synthetic chemicals that have been shown to interfere with hormone function, which can lead to cancer and reproductive toxicity.

Studies have detected parabens in nearly all urine samples taken from adults in the U.S., regardless of demographic (Ye 2006).

Common parabens are methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Often more than one paraben is used in a single product. (CDC). With so many highly effective, natural and safe alternatives available, there is no excuse for so many companies to still be using them.

Green products should be free of formaldehyde, perfumes, phthalates, sulfates and parabens.

2. One Size does not Fit All

It takes some trial and error to find skincare products that work for your skin. All too often consumers are lumped into an “age category” (ie. Over 50). Believe it or not, getting healthy skin is basically the same for any age. Whether you are in your 20s or in your 50s, you need similar skincare ingredients such as antioxidants, growth factors and sunscreen.

However, one-size-fits-all approach to skincare is not appropriate because there is a matrix of factors. What is your skin type? Do you have sun damage? Do you suffer from acne? Rosacea? Do certain ingredients cause irritation? What are your skincare goals?

Certain products could be doing more damage than you think. Some enzyme and acid-based masks might do wonders for one person but might create a burning sensation on someone with more sensitive skin.

Sensitive Skin

Some skin is irritated or even allergic to certain ingredients in products. Some ingredients that can be irritating to sensitive skin are:

Parabens
Fragrance
Retinol
Alpha hydroxyl acids
Coconut oil
Harsh exfoliants

A consultation with a dermatologist or specialist can narrow down what type of skin you have and what type of products will work best for you.

3. Pain isn’t always gain!

No pain – no gain is a terrible concept when it comes to your skin! If your skincare is burning or irritating then it is likely not a right fit for you. Pain is skin’s defence mechanism to protect itself from ingredients that are irritating it. It is okay if your weekly at-home acid peel or retinol to tingle or sting a little bit but it should be short-term.

Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to it. (Mayo Clinic)

4. Expensive doesn’t always mean more effective… but sorry, it often does

Skincare of high caliber can be very expensive to formulate. Creating products with higher concentrations of quality ingredients, skincare that is safer for all skin types and without fragrance and chemical fillers.

Did you have find a great deal on $12 hyaluronic serum at your local drug store? Well, keep in mind the quality is likely not there. Sometimes, yes, you get what you pay for. Don’t waste your money!

“Drugstore skin care is extremely watered down and contains tons of fillers, thickeners, low quality ingredients, irritants, comedogenic ingredients, and only miniscule amounts of the “good” ingredients so they can add them to the label and claim to be effective. They thrive on people that are on a budget, and they’re a ripoff! They’re so watered down that you have to replenish your stock twice as often.” (Ethereal Aura Spa)

There are, however, some great inexpensive skincare products out there. You just have to do your research and read labels. If you’re on a tight budget, splurge on the serum instead of the moisturizer.

5. Results take their sweet time

Patience and Consistency is Key. You want immediate results – who doesn’t? This skincare secret can be a tough one to accept. Slathering on moisturizer before bed will not make you look 10 years younger by morning. You don’t expect to have optimum health and muscular fitness after just one jog around the block, do you? The same logic can be applied to your skincare.

Try to ignore exaggerated claims and promises for miracle skin. There are very effective products on the market but there is no miracle product. You might see overnight improvement but these immediate results (that undeniable morning glow) are not permanent. Magic does not happen overnight. Beautiful, healthy skin takes time, effort and consistency.

“The natural cell cycle takes thirty days.” (Vivant)

Skin needs a combination of products for optimal health and some ingredients take longer than others to work. Give your skincare products need time to work. Generally, it takes 4-6 weeks to see any benefit. If you suffer from certain stubborn conditions, like dark pigment or acne, desired results can take even longer. Yes, sorry… longer. Products need time to make a change at the cellular level, which can take more than 3 months to see any improvement with these conditions.

Maintaining a daily skincare routine that meets your skin needs will provide the nourishment it needs for a youthful, healthy glow. Don’t give up!