One thing that ranks low on most of our to-do lists is a complicated skincare routine. But, really, all you need are a few basic rules to ensure that your skin is glowing and you’re not looking old before your time.
Here are 10 simple-to-follow tips for the busy woman. They may seem basic, but it’s good to remind yourself what your body, skin and mind needs to stay in tip top condition.
Photo: 123rf
ALSO READ: What goes into a skincare brand developed by millennials
Regularly exposing your skin to the sun could lead to dull and blotchy skin, as well as wrinkles and spots. Use sunscreen all day and reapply every few hours if you’re outdoors a lot. For best results, get one with at least SPF 30 and one that protects your skin against both UVA and UVB rays. Also, buy make-up with SPF 15 at least, for extra benefits.
Photo: Instagram/glitterguide
ALSO READ: Top 10 sunscreens that won’t make your face look chalky
This process leads to brighter skin and is hugely beneficial, especially as we get older and our skin sheds less of the dead cells that make it look dull and dreary. And there’s no need to even spend much time on this – just scrub your face with an exfoliator twice a week and you’re sorted. To save more time, do it while you’re in the shower!
Photo: 123rf
ALSO READ: The one skincare ingredient every woman needs for younger looking skin
When you’re dehydrated, it shows on your skin as it’ll look dull and tired. Drink enough water to sufficiently hydrate your skin – between two to two-and-a-half litres a day is recommended. Drinking water also reduces skin puffiness so go forth and drink!
Photo: Instagram/Mynextdrink
ALSO READ: Buy these skincare products to do good for society
You don’t need to have dry skin to use a facial mist. This product replenishes and protects your skin from the elements, as well as soothes it. Most of us in Singapore spend a lot of time in an air-conditioned environment which can dry our skin, so this is a quick way to look after your face. But too much of it will dry your skin even more, just a couple of times a day is enough. If possible, get one with extra moisturising features too.
Photo: Instagram/peaupolish
There’s no point piling on tons of skincare products and them not actually having any effect. Once you know your skin type, you can buy products most suitable for your skin. And when you see that they address your needs or simply don’t have any adverse effects, you’ll feel less frustrated about spending time on a skincare routine and perhaps even look forward to it. You’ll also feel less inundated when you have the exact number of products your skin needs. Visit a dermatologist or pop by the beauty aisle at a department and get some advice from the experts.
Photo: 123rf
ALSO READ: Find the perfect cushion for your skin type and lifestyle
What you put into your body has a tremendous effect on how your skin looks. So maintain a healthy diet and your skin will thank you for it. Keep your skin looking healthy by stocking up on anti-inflammatory foods and those that contain a lot of antioxidants. Foods that are very good for your skin include blueberries, green vegetables (spinach, broccoli, kale), salmon, avocados and olive oil.
Photo: Instagram/herworldsingapore
It’s hard to even think of your skincare routine when all that’s in front of you is a mass (and mess) of products. Stick with a few simple products so you won’t feel overwhelmed just looking at them. Then, make sure they are neatly organised so you know exactly where to find them – this saves time too – and it’ll look like a quick task even the busiest career woman can find the time to tackle.
Photo: Instagram/loveforeskincare
ALSO READ: Your dresser will never look like junk with these must-have vanity tools
One of the easiest ways to ensure good skin is to get a good night’s sleep. Yes, it definitely sounds easier said than done but the wonders that good sleep does to your skin should convince you that it’s what your skin (and body) needs. Try to sleep for at least seven to eight hours each night and make sure this sleep is uninterrupted too.
Photo: Instagram/melissackoh
ALSO READ: 6 easy ways to sleep better at night
We get that all you feel like doing at night is hit the sack for some much-needed sleep but spending just a few minutes on your skin will reap amazing rewards. Firstly, never go to sleep with your make-up on. And give yourself, say, five minutes every night to cleanse and moisturise your face – it’s quick, easy and will make you look fresher in the morning.
If you can’t even afford that time, keep a pack of cleansing wipes next to your bed so you can at least wipe off your make-up before you go so sleep. It’s not the ideal scenario but it’s better than doing nothing.
Photo: Instagram/baumbergebaby
Us women are great at multi-tasking so why not use makeup that does the same? Look for products that have more than one function, such as a tinted moisturiser or a mascara than lengthens, so you won’t have to spend so much time using various products on your face. That’s less time needed for your makeup routine, which is extremely helpful as every minute counts when you’re a busy woman.
Photo: Instagram/silverkis