FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS $35+
Search

Skincare Tips for Beginners

  1. Be familiar with the signs of skin damage

As you experiment with new products and treatments, your skin might not react how you hope. Make sure you’re familiar with what it looks like - and feels like - when your skin isn’t feeling too great. This will help you identify which products, treatments, and routines work best for your skin.

Signs of skin damage: inflammation/swelling, breakouts, sensitivity, your skin burns or tingles when applying product, your skin is extremely dry or never feels moisturized

  1. Learn your ingredients

Start with the ingredients listed as “active” and look up what they are for and how they work. It can help you recognize them in other products and brands; it will give you clues on what work for your skin.

A good place to start is the product listing. Brands sometimes explain why they use particular ingredient. Try the resources below!

Decode skincare ingredients fast using the INCI Decoder, a  science-based but easy-to-understand explanations.

CosDNA focuses on cosmetic product ingredient analysis, known ingredient risks and benefits.

  1. Learn how to test new products

Start slow. Perform an at home version of what’s called a patch test.

  1. Choose a small test area [no larger than the size of a quarter].
  2. Apply product as instructed.
  3. Wait 24-48 hrs and watch for any adverse reactions. This includes: tingling, swelling, itching, redness, rash, breakout
  4. If no reaction occurs, it is a good indication that the product will work well with your skin

***This is especially valuable if you know you have sensitive skin, or if your skin is in a damaged state or in recovery!

  1. Keep a skincare diary

Tracking what products and treatments you use can help you realize what works - and what doesn’t work - for your unique skin chemistry. It’s not only the products that can affect the health and appearance of your skin, it’s your diet, hydration level, stress level, sleep quality, hormonal balance, and more. 

Download our free skincare tracker and reflect on your skincare, the good and the bad.

 

Blogs you might like to read