The Value of Skincare

The practice of skincare is an exercise in long term value; it is an investment in the health of skin rather than a time sensitive task to achieve the most aesthetic and superficial results.

Though the number of options available to consumers can complicate the task of choosing a product, take your time to understand your skin and base your decision on informed analysis rather than trends.

Choose Products Based on Skin Type

Understanding your skin type can save you the hassle of trial and error.

Normal skin is almost never the cause of a breakout. Pores are also quite small.

Oily skin is the opposite. Generally shiny skin and larger pores. More susceptible to breakouts.

Dry skin is pretty self explanatory. After washing, your skin may feel tight and appear flaky and dull.

Combination skin can be dry in the cheeks, but oily in the T zone.

If you are unsure about your skin type, a simple test is to wash your face, and leave it for a couple of hours without products.

Check how it feels. Your skin will help you self-assess.

Key Ingredients for Skin Type

After determining your skin type, you can start to be concerned about product ingredients because they will differ based on your skin type.

Some product ingredients are more effective than others, and some are tried and tested through generations. Aloe vera is a nice, natural, cooling, and soothing option for sunburns. Deep hydration can be provided through the rich and nourishing shea butter. Green tea extract is a good, natural option for antioxidants. Antioxidants help skin stay youthful.

You have jojoba that helps keep balance with its likeness to the skin's natural oil. Chamomile helps calm the skin, making it great for the sensitive skin. Rosehip oil is full of vitamins, and helps improve the softness and brightness of the skin.

For brightness and evening of the skin tone, Vitamin C is great. Niacinamide is a go to for the calming of irritation and the evening of the skin tone.

What about synthetics?

There is much debate over the natural versus the synthetics. The truth is, synthetics can be good.

Take retinoids for instance. They are a vitamin A derivative and are great for texture improvement and skin renewal. Even when made synthetically, hyaluronic acid is great for moisture retention and hydration.

Some ingredients do need more scrutiny. Parabens, like preservatives, are okay in small amounts, but people like to avoid them completely. Sulfates are in a lot of cleansers and are great for oil stripping, but not for skin.

Irritants like artificial fragrances can be a problem for sensitive skin.

The point truly is not avoidance, but to have a knowledge of what is great for your skin.

Growth in the Market

There is a lot of knowledge about the products and there is preference. Skincare goes beyond the basic routine, and has become a massive industry.

This space continues to grow year over year. Based on GMI Research analysis, The United States Cosmetic is predicted to reach USD 155 billion by 2033, which is an impressive value. It is obvious the value people place on skincare and personal care.

Conclusion

Skincare at the end of the day, should be simple.

Know your skin type. Be ingredients mindful. Avoid the traps of fads and products.

All you need to do is maintain a simple routine. Consistency is key. It the right products, your routine will be a breeze.