Summer is a good time to examine your skincare routine and make any necessary changes. The heat and humidity can do a number on even the clearest complexions. Here are the steps that you want to consider for your skincare routine in order to ensure that your skin looks the best that it can.

Cleanser

The cornerstone of good skincare starts with a thorough cleansing routine. This is important regardless of your skin type or personal needs. A water-soluble cleanser will deliver the best results if you struggle with oily skin. You should wash your skin twice daily. It is particularly important to wash your skin at night if you wear makeup during the day. Be sure to scrub the skin for at least 20 seconds using warm water before gently patting it dry with a clean towel.

Toner

A facial toner is a liquid that works to remove excess dirt, grime, and other impurities from the surface of the skin. A good toner will also help to regulate the balance of the pH of the skin. By removing the built-up dead skin cells, you will clear out clogged pores. Toners are formulated to work for specific skin types, making it important that you choose the right product for your individual needs. You will be wasting your money and time if you do not choose the right toner for your skin type.

Exfoliation Products

After cleansing and toning, it is time to begin the exfoliation process. Exfoliants work by sloughing away dead skin cells, leaving a fresher and clearer layer of skin. An exfoliant is one of the best preventative measures that you can take for your skin. You can use an exfoliant up to twice daily. Using an exfoliant will also prepare the skin to be able to more effectively absorb other products. While short-term exfoliation will immediately clear pores, the long-term use of the product may also increase the production of collagen, promoting skin elasticity and minimizing the visible appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Serums and Spot Treatments

While they are not necessary, many individuals swear by the use of topical serums and spot treatments. Targeted serums work the best when used overnight during the time that the skin is naturally restoring and regenerating itself. What products you use largely depends on your individual skin challenges. Retinol is the product of choice for those looking to slow down the progression of aging on the skin. Topical vitamin C serums are ideal for boosting the brightness of the skin and making your complexion more radiant. Benzoyl peroxide is best known for its ability to stop acne in its tracks. It may take some experimentation with different products to find the results that you desire.

Moisturizer

While serums and spot treatments are optional, a daily moisturizer is not. Even if you have oily skin, a moisturizing product is a key to a healthy complexion. Just like with any other type of skincare product, you need to take care to choose the right formulation for your skin type. A moisturizing treatment will work hard to prevent the skin from drying out and becoming irritated. Using a moisturizing treatment after the spot treatments and serums will lock the products into the skin and increase their effectiveness.

Sunscreen

It should go without saying that no skincare routine is complete without the use of daily sunscreen. This is especially vital during the summer when you are more likely to be spending time outdoors. When shopping for sunscreen, look for a broad-based sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Many moisturizers have a sunscreen built in to the product, making it a good one-stop-shop for various skincare needs.

It is never too early to start a good skincare routine. Do not wait until wrinkles start to appear before you begin worrying about the appearance of your skin. Being proactive from a young age will ensure that you put your skin in the best position to shine. In addition, it is never too late to start taking good care of your skin. With the right products and a commitment to a regular routine, you can reverse a lot of the damage that your skin has already incurred over the years.