Skin experts recommend people apply products in a particular order to get the most out of a skin care routine. The products they use will also differ depending on their skin type.
For example, someone with dry skin needs to moisturize more than a person with oily skin. In addition, people with mature skin have different needs than those with younger skin due to differences in skin thinness and collagen.
Keep reading to learn more about daily care regimens for oily, dry, and mature skin. This article will also cover suitable skin care routines for those with rosacea and sensitive skin.
Glands in a person’s skin produce oil to lubricate it, preventing wrinkles. However, too much oil may contribute to acne breakouts. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), appropriate skin care for oily skin balances the need to preserve its natural moisture without making the skin too oily.
The AADA recommend the below regimen for oily skin:
- Cleanser: Wash the face in the morning and evening with a gentle face wash. Avoid using alcohol- or oil-based cleansers.
- Medication: Apply any topical treatments after cleansing.
- Moisturizer: Use a moisturizer with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
- Sunscreen: Use sunscreen outdoors that contains titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
- Makeup: Use water-based makeup products.
Individuals with oily skin may occasionally use an exfoliator, a product that removes dead skin cells. After application, they should follow up by using a moisturizer.
Skin dries out when it loses too much oil and water. If an underlying health condition, such as atopic dermatitis, is drying the person’s skin, they should use only fragrance-free products to avoid irritation.
The following is a suitable regimen for those with dry skin:
- Cleanser: Use cream- or lotion-based products.
- Moisturizer: Use oil-in-water formulation moisturizers, including lightweight lotions, gels, and serums.
- Sunscreen: Use sunscreen outdoors with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Makeup: Choose a moisturizing makeup base.
People with dry skin may occasionally use a gentle exfoliator. Following the application of this, they may wish to moisturize.
When skin ages, it becomes thinner and loses fat. These changes reduce skin smoothness, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and drying.
The AADA suggest the following regimen for mature skin:
- Cleanser: Use a gentle product to clean the skin.
- Moisturizer: An anti-aging moisturizer can help reduce fine lines.
- Sunscreen: Applying sunscreen is important for people with mature skin. If the moisturizer does not contain sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, use a sunscreen that offers this protection.
Rosacea is a skin condition that causes redness and pimples. The AADA note that people with rosacea may find it difficult to find products that do not irritate their skin.
The following regimen is suitable for people with this condition:
- Cleanser: Twice per day, gently apply a mild cleanser using a circular fingertip motion. Then, thoroughly remove the substance with lukewarm water.
- Moisturizer: Apply a moisturizer twice a day.
- Sunscreen: Use sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher before going outdoors, even on cloudy days.
People with sensitive skin may experience itching, burning, and stinging when they use products that cause irritation. Those with this skin type should also use fragrance-free products that contain as few ingredients as possible.
Reactions to cosmetic products may take minutes or hours to occur. Doctors may recommend discontinuing all cosmetics and later reintroducing them one at a time to determine the cause of the irritation.
A person should speak with a dermatologist when:
- persistent symptoms of acne develop
- symptoms of rosacea become worse
- skin issues become constant or troublesome
Additionally, people may wish to speak with a doctor regarding any new skin issues that appear. This is important because if skin cancer or another condition develops, individuals can receive prompt treatment.
Generally, whatever skin type a person has, experts recommend applying skin care products in this order:
- cleanser
- topical medicinal creams
- moisturizer
- sunscreen
- makeup
While dermatologists do not advise exfoliating every day, occasional exfoliation, for example, once or twice a week, may benefit the skin. Moisturizing should always follow exfoliation.
One exception to the above skin care order includes routines for people with rosacea or sensitive skin. As many products could trigger irritation, doctors recommend more streamlined skin care strategies. Speak with a healthcare provider or dermatologist for further guidance and possible treatment options.
