How often to use Skincare Actives & Treatments?

Hey Guys,

We all see so much hype around so many active ingredients nowadays. I am most frequently asked about how to incorporate the ingredient or product in your routine.

So, here I am trying to break it down in the simplest way in my new #vanitysparklesexplains. I hope this helps.

Daily:

Sunscreen or Spf. Do I need to elaborate? Just wear it if you don't. Thank me later!

Vitamin C or any other Anti oxidant like Q10, reveratrol, Vitamin E, Green tea.

They help in fighting free radical damage and prevents damage to the skin.

Niacinamide. The kind of benefits that it has, you should definitely use this one! (Refer to previous posts for details). It is a non irritating and stable active and so it can be used everyday, both in the am and pm.

Hyaluronic Acid. It is a humectant which means that it draws moisture to the skin. Its a no brainer that you can use it everyday. Seal it with a moisturizer.

Double Cleansing. It definitely brings about a major difference. If you wear makeup then you definitely should double cleanse. Start with oil based cleanser (cleansing oil/ balm) and then wash your face with a face wash.

2-3 times a week:

Chemical Exfoliation. Active ingredients like AHA which includes Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid etc and BHA like Salicylic Acid can be used everyday since it leads to over exfoliation and will damage your skin barrier.

Retinol. This also acts as an exfoliator. It leads to drying of the skin and can also compromise the skin barrier if over used. Start small always and build up. But never use everyday.

Face Mask. There are many masks available like hydrating or clay masks. Depending on your need you can use an appropriate mask.

Once a week:

Chemical Peels. The one like the ordinary AHA BHA peel. The concentration of the exfoliants is so high that it is not advised to use it even 2-3 times a week. Once a week is enough.

I hope this helps! Let me know in the comments if you have any further questions or if you want to add anything to it.