How to Choose Skincare Products

Let's simplify something that usually makes our heads spin.

Contrary to what the skincare market has us believe (guess what, the more products you buy, the more money they make) you actually don’t need every product under the sun! 

Your skincare line up should reflect your skin’s needs.

First step is deciding what your skincare goals are. 

If your skin is clear but is on the drier side, use products with ingredients that are moisturizing. Some ingredients to look for in your moisturizer are glycerin, panthenol, propylene glycol, and polyglutamic acid. 

Occlusives can help lock in moisture—look for shea better, jojoba oil, or petrolatum for a nice moisture locking seal without causing breakouts. 

If your skin lacks luster and you’d like to even out your skin tone, choose products with brightening ingredients. Some brightening ingredients I love are vitamin C, azelaic acid, and niacinamide. 

If you’re noticing more fine lines and texture changes, I love adding a chemical exfoliant to my routine. Glycolic acid is exfoliating and hydrating (yes, at the same time!) I also like lactic acid and of course, a retinoid. Retinoids help increase skin cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and keep skin nice and smooth!

If you’re acne prone, a pore-clearing agent will help prevent congestion and stave away breakouts. Retinols are the gold standard for this, along with salicylic acid. 

Remember, not everyone needs every single type of product out there. The products you choose to use should serve a purpose for you. This way, you are working towards a skincare goal rather than joining a bandwagon or following a useless trend. 

Seeing a #boardcertifieddermatologist for an evaluation and curation of a skincare regimen may be beneficial for you to choose effective ingredients without wasting money!