Achieving and maintaining a healthy and radiant skin is a top priority for many women. While using quality skincare products is important, it is also crucial to consider the optimal time for each step in your skincare routine. Timing plays a significant role in ensuring that your skin remains balanced and receptive to the benefits of the products you use.
1 Makeup removal
Makeup removal is an essential step in thoroughly cleansing your skin, even if you don’t wear makeup. It is recommended to spend at least 5 minutes to thoroughly clean the surface of your skin. Depending on your skin’s needs, you can choose a suitable cleanser or makeup remover.
For makeup remover, apply a sufficient amount onto a cotton pad and gently wipe your face in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes. If you use an oil-based makeup remover, massage it onto your face in circular motions for 5 minutes, starting from the inside and moving outwards. Afterward, proceed to the next steps of your skincare routine.
It’s important to note that for areas like the eyes and lips, you should use specialized makeup remover. The ideal cleansing time for these areas is between 30 and 60 seconds. Gently press the cotton pad on each point, then wipe in the same direction.
2 Face cleansing
After makeup removal, cleanse your face with water for 1 minute. Then, apply an appropriate amount of cleanser and a little water to create a lather. Massage your face for 2 minutes, avoiding leaving the cleanser on your skin for too long.
Cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, roughness, and premature aging. After using a facial cleanser, allow your skin to calm down for 2-4 minutes before continuing with the next steps of your skincare routine.
3 Exfoliation
Exfoliation should be done up to 3 times per week for oily skin and 1-2 times per week for dry, sensitive skin. When using an exfoliator on your face, gently massage it for about 2 minutes. Rinse with water and allow your skin to “breathe” for 3 minutes. Avoid rubbing the skin around your eyes to prevent irritation.
4 Toner
There are various deep cleansing toners available in the market, formulated with ultra-small essence particles to enhance nutrient absorption. Depending on your skin’s condition, you can combine 2-3 different toners. Massage the toner onto your face for about 5 minutes to facilitate absorption. Wait for the toner to dry naturally before continuing with your skincare routine.
5 Face mask
Once your skin is clean and clear, it’s the perfect time to apply a face mask. The recommended maximum time to leave the mask on is 15-20 minutes. Do not exceed 20 minutes to avoid drying out the mask and causing wrinkles. While applying the mask, gently tap it with your fingertips to help the nutrients penetrate deeper. Rinse your face with water and wait an additional 2 minutes before using the next skincare products.
6 Serum/Essence
The ideal time for serum/essence application is about 5-7 minutes to allow the nutrients to deeply penetrate the skin. Oil-based serums may take longer to dry compared to water-based serums. Therefore, it’s recommended to apply products from liquid to dense consistency for optimum results.
7 Eye cream
The delicate eye area requires gentle and patient care. Take a sufficient amount of eye cream and gently massage it in circular motions for 2 minutes. If you’re using a highly moisturizing eye cream, you can extend the massage time to 3-5 minutes to ensure complete absorption of the essence.
8 Moisturizer
The final step of your skincare routine is moisturizing. The absorption time for moisturizers may vary depending on external factors such as environmental conditions, skin type, and temperature. Generally, the time for using moisturizer ranges from 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, apply the moisturizer until the face feels hydrated without leaving a greasy residue.
9 Sleeping mask
A sleeping mask provides prolonged moisturization and hydration for the skin. When applying a sleeping mask, gently massage it in circular motions from bottom to top for about 3-5 minutes to promote firmness. Allow the mask to dry for 10-15 minutes before going to bed.
These are the recommended timings for each step in your skincare routine to achieve a bright, healthy, and glowing complexion. Remember to follow our category for more informative articles!