5 Steps to a New You

It's time to stop stressing about your skin, and start loving it.  While change isn't always easy, you can achieve a beauty transformation with these five easy steps.  Best of all, these tips will benefit every skin type or concern.

1.  Heal: 

Physical signs of skin inflammation include acne, pigmentation, redness and even wrinkles.  Harsh products or overuse can increase irritation, leading to worsened inflammation.  Before you can truly transform your skin, you must address the root of its inflammation.  Have you ever noticed that a certain product seemed to make your skin a little worse before it got better?  This could be purging, the natural and temporary process of the product physically pulling out impurities.  However, if your skin seems to experience a significant or uncomfortable increase in irritation, dryness or flaking, you may actually be overstimulating your skin.  Treat your inflammation, then begin your transformation.

2. Customize: 

What works for one skin type may not work for another.  It's important to use products specifically for your skin type and concerns so that you will achieve the best results.  If you're not sure which products will work for you, check out our helpful guide to finding your skin type.  It's common for skin to need a little help sometimes with seasonal or climate changes so don't be afraid to add a new product to your regimen.  For example, if you notice your skin may be drier during the winter, you can try a heavier moisturizer or night cream to combat dryness.  Browse Skincare by Concern

3.  Create a Routine: 

Whether it's setting your alarm five minutes earlier or creating your own at-home spa, it's important to establish a routine so you're more likely to stick to it.  A basic skincare routine is easy:  cleanse, tone, treat, moisturize and protect.  Set aside extra time throughout the week for your special treatments like masks and exfoliants.  Treat your skincare routine as something fun and special to look forward to, your "me" time, and you'll be sure to follow it.  For more tips, see our guide for When to Use Your Products.

4.  Protect: 

We can't stress enough how important it is to protect your skin with antioxidants and sunscreen to prevent and treat skin aging and pigmentation. 

• Antioxidants, like Vitamins A, C and E will protect against free radical and environmental damage.  This damage includes elements like pollution, radiation, and exposure to cigarette smoke.  Think of this process like a freshly cut apple -- It doesn't take long for it to start turning brown, but if you sprinkle a little lemon juice on it (with natural Vitamin C), it will protect it from oxidation.  It's important to incorporate antioxidants into your morning skincare routine.  When applied before your sunscreen, you will increase your protection.  Browse Vitamin A products | Browse Vitamin C products
• When choosing a sunscreen, look for options that provide broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.  Physical sunscreens, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide will physically block out UV rays and are less likely to irritate sensitive skin.  There are many multi-tasking products that include sunscreen to help you easily incorporate it into your regimen.  Just remember to customize your selection for your skin type, and reapply as needed.  Browse Sunscreen  

5.  Listen to Your Skin: 

If you pay attention, your skin will tell you what it needs.  Signs of flakiness, blotchiness, increased oil, irregular pigmentation and blemishes are all visible signs you can see.  Your skin may be telling you that it needs moisture or something new in your routine is not right for it.  Your skin may also be telling you to slow down and relax, as stress is a proven cause of hormonal imbalances that affect the skin.

For more tips, tricks and tutorials, check out our Beauty 101 section.  Have a question for our beauty experts?  Feel free to contact us.