What's in your cleanser
So read the labels on your skin-care products very carefully. You should also be on the lookout for certain ingredients in your skin-care products and, if possible, try to avoid them.
"Any ingredient that irritates the skin is going to be a problem, such as menthol, alcohol, peppermint, camphor and eucalyptus," says Begoun. "A cleansing agent known as sodium lauryl sulfate should also be avoided as it is known to be extremely irritating."
After you've cleansed your skin, determine whether it needs a toner or astringent. According to Dr. Solish, astringents are drying because they strip the oils from your skin and he therefore recommends that people who have oily or greasy skin use them.
"To remove the last traces of makeup or to add soothing agents or moisturizing ingredients to the skin, [astringents] are great," says Begoun. But she also cautions against using products that may be too harsh for your skin, or that contain ingredients that are known skin irritants.
Find the time
No matter how tired you may be at the end of the day, you should always find the time and energy to cleanse your skin. If you don't, you may be inviting breakouts and clogging your pores. A multipurpose cleanser or a gentle scrub should be able to remove oil and dirt and should also be able to take off long-lasting makeup. For an even quicker approach, try a daily cleansing cloth to give your face a fast but effective wash.
If you occasionally perform a pared-down version of your nighttime routine, or skip it altogether, be sure to cleanse your skin thoroughly in the morning. You'll feel revived and refreshed and you'll be able to start the day by putting your best face forward.
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