When it comes to skincare, it’s easy to wonder what you’re doing “wrong” if you have an extensive routine and you’re still struggling to see great skin. Throughout many years of trial and error, I’ve discovered 3 skincare steps I believe you should never skip and believe it or not, a lot of us are not even aware of what these steps are! Curious? 

Step 1: Always Precleanse. 

Before I started using a precleanser, my skin would still breakout and I’d notice that my skin still looked dull. If you wear makeup, this step is especially important because you’ve got double the product, dirt, and oil to remove from your pores. If you don’t believe me, try using your regular cleanser and then use a makeup remover on your face afterward. 99% of the time, there will still be remnants of makeup and dirt on your skin after cleansing. When you precleanse, you loosen all the makeup and gunk out of your pores so that your cleanser can penetrate deeply. My favorite is the Dermalogica Precleanse Balm and regular Precleanse.

 

Step 2: Use a facial scrub brush daily.

Forget harsh scrubs that scratch your face and irritate your skin. The best tip I have ever received was from an esthetician who recommended an inexpensive facial scrub brush like the one you see above. You can purchase one of these at a local beauty supply store for just a couple of dollars. I also love this DHC Facial Scrub Brush (under $20!), which is specifically made with gentler, softer bristles for the skin on your face. Using a facial scrub brush loosens dead skin cells and sebum that sit on your skin and clog your pores. As a bonus, it will feel like a mini-massage and promote blood-flow to your skin for that healthy, natural glow.

 

Step 3: Use retinol at night. 

Retinol is a skincare product that is talked about often but usually underutilized. Many products come with steep price tags and big claims, when the magical, mystical main ingredient is retinol. Retinol should only be used at night (use SPF in sunlight when using) and helps stimulate the production of new skin cells. This means you can wave bye-bye to acne scars, hyper-pigmentation, dark spots, fine lines, and discoloration over time. You certainly don’t need to be a certain age to use it, as even those in their 20’s can benefit from retinol. It’s always a good idea to start low and slow. Meaning, a low percentage in your product, and only 1-2x per week to start. Your skin will build a tolerance and you can increase both of those as you move forward. I love this Paula’s Choice Retinol Serum because you only need a couple of drops for each use.