I've been a beauty editor for over seven years, so I think I know a thing or two about a good skincare routine. After all, my job is to talk to the world's best skin experts almost every day, so I've definitely picked up a few tips and tricks along the way.
But like everyone's skin journey, my skin journey is always evolving and it took me years to establish it. Of all the things I've tried, there are six key things that have changed the way I take care of my skin. Great news? They are incredibly simple. No major procedures or expensive treatments are required. Consistent swaps and changes have dramatically improved my complexion over time.
(Image credit: Tori Crowther)
Before we discuss them, there are a few things you should know. I have rosacea (see my best rosacea products) and my skin is on the sensitive side, although the weird redness is under control now. I have a pretty relaxed attitude towards beauty, and while I'm not completely no-maintenance, I don't want to spend hours doing it. Also, even though I can get products for free, I buy a lot, so I don't want them to be expensive or hard to get. So here are just 6 skin care tips that I think are really important.
Tip 1: Introduce azelaic acid
Azelaic acid has won my heart. This is the only ingredient that completely transforms my skin and keeps it feeling and looking rosacea redness free. I also don't use fancy azelaic acid products. I am prescribing 20% azelaic acid based on my doctor's prescription, and the tube will last him more than 3 months. This is one of the cheapest and easiest to work products I've used.
The reason it's so effective for my rosacea is because azelaic acid is different from standard skin care acids in that it exfoliates dead skin cells. Instead, it helps reduce keratin production and breaks down excess keratin, leading to fewer breakouts. It also has antibacterial and deodorizing effects, making it an excellent all-round product.
Regular azelaic acid suspension 10%
This is a great entry-level azelaic acid to try thanks to its affordable price. Nothing special, but it gets the job done.
Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
Paula's Choice knows how to make great and effective products, and this is no exception. This contains salicylic acid and is especially ideal if you suffer from congestion.
Tip 2: Remove exfoliating acids and retinoids from your routine
Yes, I'm going against the grain here, but my sensitive little face doesn't love (or need) lots of acids or retinoids to be cute, gentle, and happy. Removing these from my daily routine means I can actually repair my skin's barrier and introduce ingredients that work without negatively impacting my skin. Now, I'm not telling you to cut out all of these (often amazing) ingredients and products from your daily life. but If your skin is often irritated and sensitive, it's a good idea to give it a rest and see what you don't like about it.
Working in parallel with this is not to get involved in skin trends. As a beauty editor, I can avoid skincare trends when I get products for free or get FOMO when a colleague talks about glowing skin after using certain acids. Then you can too! Learning to push back, say no, and do what works for you will give you your best skin. Beautiful, comfortable, and healthy skin shouldn't depend on your skin's tendencies.
Tip 3: SPF50 daily
There's a reason you always hear beauty editors and skin experts rant about wearing sunscreen. That's because sunscreen is a super important and easy way to keep your skin in tip-top condition (not to mention preventing skin cancer). Now I don't even mess with SPF30. SPF50 every day. I've been doing this consistently for about four years now, and I make sure to reapply every summer when I'm not sitting at a desk with my back to the window. I used to just skip the odd day, wear Factor 30, and think I was covered, but since using it along with my sunscreen, I've had far fewer rosacea flare-ups and overall The condition of my skin has actually improved. Experts say wearing SPF is the best thing for your skin and the most effective way to prevent early signs of skin aging.
The secret to consistency here is to get a sunscreen that you love and that's in your price range (so you don't skimp and use enough every day). This is absolutely doable, I promise. There are so many great formulas out there now that suit different skin types, skin tones, and preferences. Nothing thick and sticky like I used to apply on holidays years ago. Since then, formulations have come a long way and become great products to add to our daily lives. And something you can actually enjoy.
La Roche Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+
I think this is a classic that works for everyone, regardless of their skin type.
Beauty Pie Feather Light SPF 50
As the name suggests, this formula is truly feather-light and works great under makeup.
Tip 4: Buy a new flannel every day.
This isn't sexy at all, but it's important. Stock up on muslin cloths or flannels that you can apply to your face and change daily. This does not require any special effort, but it is very helpful in keeping the face as clean as possible.
Muslin cloths and flannels can be used to gently remove any debris and makeup from your skin before applying your serum or moisturizer at night. Replacing these with freshly washed ones every day means you won't be wiping leftover dirt and bacteria directly onto your face the next day.
Tip 5: Consult an expert
I've been struggling with my skin for years, thinking it was hormonal acne, but after seeing a dermatologist, I finally got my skin under control. Despite working in the beauty industry and knowing many amazing professionals, I ended up misdiagnosing myself as having acne when in fact I had papulopustular rosacea. .
Two creams costing around £20 transformed my skin within about 4 weeks. Now, I'm not saying everyone has such a quick and easy journey (I've certainly had my ups and downs since then), but when people ask me about skin concerns now, I My first advice is to consult a professional. The initial cost can be an investment, but it will be a worthwhile investment.
If you want top-notch advice, be sure to speak to a consultant dermatologist, as this is the only protected term. Unfortunately, many professionals who use titles such as “cosmetic dermatologist” or “dermatologist” have not undergone the same rigorous specialized training that consultants have. If you're really struggling, consider visiting your GP and seeing if they can give you a referral through the NHS.
Tip 6: Treat your skin gently
Yeah, this sounds weird. But if your skin is inflamed or in a generally abnormal condition, it's very easy to use the most powerful products in full force and do your best to treat your skin. . But often, the best thing to do is to leave the skin condition alone and wait for it to pass, tweaking products and daily routines as needed. In many cases, over-cleaning or treatment can make the problem worse.
When your skin is irritated, breakout-filled, and dull, it's tempting to exfoliate or use harsh cleansers to wash away blemishes in hopes of instant relief, but this only makes the problem worse. is. When I'm unhappy with my skin, I try to be extra gentle and be more mindful in my daily life. I don't poke and prod, I keep a consistent skincare routine, and I make sure I have some amazing makeup sitting in my drawer waiting to be used.