Your Most-Asked Skincare Questions, Answered
Whether you're confused about double-cleansing or you think you should be exfoliating more, we've answered your most pressing skincare questions. Got more queries? You can always DM us on Instagram, @thebeauty_editor if you have skincare questions.
Skincare Question #1: Do I Need to Double-Cleanse?
A lot of skin concerns like blemishes, dullness and dry patches can be solved with double-cleansing. That's because cleansing twice ensures all dirt, makeup and dead skin cells are removed leaving skin glowing and ready to absorb any skincare your apply afterwards.
Start by cleansing with a balm or butter that will dissolve makeup and dirt. Remove it with a cloth and you'll be giving your skin a gentle exfoliation, too! Follow with the same cleanser, or opt for something lighter like a toner, gel face wash or micellar to remove any lasting residue.
Skincare Question #2: Should I Use Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is a total wonder ingredient. It protects your skin from environmental aggressors, brightens your complexion, fades unwanted pigmentation and triggers collagen production to lessen the appearance of fine lines. Apply it in the morning.
Lixirskin Vitamin C Paste, €39
Ren Glow Daily Vitamin C Gel Cream, €43
Skincare Question #3: Is an Eye Cream Really Necessary?
When it comes to eye cream the experts are torn. If you apply your serums and face cream around your eyes you may suffer from sensitivity and milia (small white bumps on the skin, caused by an excess of skincare product). Eye creams are designed to be used on the thinner skin around the eye, they're not too heavy and have just the right cocktail of ingredients to tackle issues like puffiness, fine lines and dark circles.
In short, if you're applying your face products around your eyes (always apply up to and on the orbital bone - no closer) and you've had no adverse effects, carry on. Otherwise, look to a specially formulated eye cream to keep the delicate skin in tip-top condition.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Eye Cream, €115
Freck So Jelly Cactus Eye Jelly with Plant Collagen, €28
Skincare Question #4: How Often Should I Exfoliate?
How long is a piece of string? Every skin is different so, when it comes to exfoliating, you need to find your own sweet spot. Some people can exfoliate every day, others a few times a week and some just once.
Exfoliation is great for removing dull dead skin cells that leave your complexion looking lacklustre, it clears the way so your other skincare products work better and exfoliating can prevent pores from becoming clogged.
Top tip: If you are exfoliating with spot-prevention in mind, then be sure to use BHA - this is an oil-soluble acid that drives down into pores to exfoliate them and prevent spots and blackheads from appearing.
Wishful Yo Glow Enzyme Scrub, €38
Lixirskin Night Switch BHA/AHA 10%, €24
Skincare Question #5: How Is Serum Different to Moisturiser?
Serums are lighter weight in texture which means they can drive the active ingredients like hydrating hyaluronic acid, firming peptides and more, deeper into your skin. Most moisturisers trap nourish the skin, repair the skin barrier and trap moisture inside. You'll also find some moisturisers (like the one below) contain SPF to further protect your complexion.
Wishful Thirst Trap Juice Serum, €46
Skincare Question #5: Do I really need to apply SPF every day?
You do, yes! During the day UVA rays from the sun can penetrate cloud and windows to reach your skin. UVA rays are responsible for ageing in the skin and can lead to pigmentation, fine lines and loss of elasticity in the skin, which means a daily dose of SPF will keep your skin looking younger for longer.
Ren Clean Screen Mineral SPF 30, €34
Next up, 3 face mask tips for you to create a facial at home.
