Although it may not feel like it, spring is just around the corner. The return of (slightly) warmer weather also calls for the return of a revamped, refreshed skincare routine to brighten up the complexion. However, with spring semester work piling up, we don’t all have time for an extensive routine; let alone the funds to invest in the new product launches by skincare brands. So we’re going back to basics with some simple changes you can make in order to step-up your current routine.
Clear out old make-up and skincare products
Make-up and skincare products have an expiry date and, if you can’t recall when you bought the item, then it’s probably best to get rid. Check out this image to see how long the lives of your beauty products should be. It’s especially important to bin old mascaras as the applicators can carry bacteria. You can also look for the period-after-opening symbol (see below image) on any of your products to see how long they should really be allowed to lurk in your make-up bag for.
Wash your make-up brushes
Although it may be the most tedious task ever, keeping your make-up brushes clean is vital in order to rid the bristles of bacteria and product build-up. If they’re kept clean and in good condition, they’re sure to last a lot longer, which is important when they can often be quite pricey. Watch this game-changing video from Pixiwoo which demonstrates the best method to clean their Real Techniques brushes.
Cleanse, tone and moisturise!
Cleansing is a great alternative to using make-up wipes, which can have a drying effect on the skin. Hot cloth cleansers are ideal for make-up removal as well as giving your face the clean it needs. Using a muslin cloth alongside a cleansing product also provides some exfoliation to remove dead skin cells; always an essential step if you’re looking for a brighter, smoother complexion. Alternatively, you can use coconut oil as a more natural and inexpensive method of removing make-up and replenishing the skin’s moisture levels.
Using a toner is a step that’s often forgotten about, but it really can make a difference as part of your routine. Opt for a gentle toner to soothe the skin after cleansing and to remove any remaining impurities. Toners can also help to shrink pores and refresh the skin.
In terms of moisturising, it’s always best to invest in a product that fits your skin type to ensure your skin is getting the hydration it needs. Applying a moisturiser every night means you will wake up with plump and fresh skin, as well as assisting in the healing of spots and blemishes.
Bag a balm
If your lips have suffered during the colder months, and you’ve been wearing matte lipsticks rather regularly, then swap your Mac Velvet Teddy for Vaseline Lip Therapy with Cocoa Butter, or a balm of your choice, to banish the chapping and restore some moisture.
Swap for an SPF
Whether it’s in moisturiser or foundation form, wearing an SPF product to defend the face from damaging UV rays ensures it’s protected against premature ageing. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can affect the skin so it’s a good idea to slap on an SPF product daily, just to be on the safe side. Edited by Susan Akyeampong
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