Answering Your Most Common Skincare Questions

When it comes to skincare, there’s no shortage of questions - and rightfully so. Navigating the endless options, advice, and trends can be overwhelming. In this post, I’ll address some of the most frequently asked skincare questions, breaking them down into clear, practical answers that anyone can follow. Let’s get into it.

What is my skin type?
Determining your skin type is key to building an effective skincare routine.

Here’s a quick test:
  1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
  2. Skip moisturiser and observe your skin for an hour.
 
Here’s what to look for:
  • Oily: Shine and excess oil, especially in the T-zone.
  • Dry: Tightness, flakiness, or rough texture.
  • Combination: Oily in some areas (like your forehead and nose) but dry in others (like your cheeks).
  • Normal: Balanced skin with no significant oiliness or dryness.
  • Sensitive: Skin that’s prone to redness, stinging, or reactions.
Once you know your skin type, choosing products becomes much easier.

Different skin types


What skincare products can I use?
A basic skincare routine can work wonders, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with:
  1. Cleanser: Pick one based on your skin type.
  2. Moisturiser: Hydrates and protects your skin barrier. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
  3. Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, daily.
If you have specific concerns (like acne or hyperpigmentation), add targeted treatments such as:
  • Vitamin C serum (AM): Brightens and protects against free radicals.
  • Retinol (PM): Addresses fine lines, wrinkles, and texture. 
Start simple, then layer in products as your skin tolerates.
 
 
What skincare products can I use while pregnant?
Pregnancy-safe skincare is all about simplicity and avoiding certain actives. Stick to:
  • Safe ingredients: Vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and azelaic acid.
  • Avoid: Retinoids, high concentrations of salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide unless approved by your doctor.
When in doubt, consult your aesthetician or your gynae/a dermatologist. Pregnancy may change your skin, but safe, gentle care is always the goal.
 

 
Do skincare products expire?
Yes, skincare products have a shelf life! Look for a small jar symbol with a number (e.g., “6M” for six months) on the packaging. Here’s a general guideline:
  • Sunscreen: Replace yearly.
  • Serums and moisturisers: Use within 6-12 months of opening.
  • Retinol: Around 9 months. 
Always store your products in a cool, dry place, and discard them if the smell, texture, or colour changes.


 
At what age should I start anti-aging treatments?
Your mid-20s are a great time to start thinking about prevention. Key anti-aging products to include are:
  • Sunscreen: The ultimate preventative measure.
  • Antioxidants: Vitamin Cor E to fight free radicals.
  • Retinol: Introduce it slowly to stimulate collagen and improve skin texture.
It’s never too late to start, but earlier is better for prevention.
 
 
How long before I see skincare results?
Consistency is everything, but patience is equally important. Here’s a rough timeline:
Hydration: Immediate improvements in skin plumpness.
  • Acne treatments: 6 weeks for clearer skin.
  • Hyperpigmentation products: 3-6 months to see results.
  • Retinol: 3 months for smoother texture and fewer fine lines.
Skincare is a gradual process - stick with it for the best outcomes.
 
 
How much skincare is too much?
Overdoing skincare can cause irritation, sensitivity, or breakouts. Signs you’re overloading your skin:
  • Redness or stinging.
  • Breakouts from excessive layering of products.
  • Over-dry or tight skin from too many actives.
 
Keep your routine simple: cleanse, treat, moisturize, and protect. Adding more steps doesn’t necessarily mean better results.



What does a retinol serum do?
Retinol is a powerful ingredient that improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and boosts collagen production. It also helps with acne and fading dark spots.
 
Tips for using retinol:
  • Start with a low concentration (0.3%-0.5%).
  • Use it once a week then gradually build up, until your skin adjusts.
  • Always apply sunscreen daily - it makes your skin more sun-sensitive. 
Retinol can be a game-changer when used correctly.
 
 
Final Thoughts
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. Start with the basics, build a routine that suits your skin type, and stay consistent. Remember, good skincare is an investment in your confidence and well-being.
 
Got more questions? Feel free to reach out—I’m here to guide you on your skincare journey!

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