an ingredient, I either google it or ask for a derm. Knowledge is the best skin power –Perrie Samotin, digital director
Follow the instructions for your product.
Although it sounds obvious, it is important to remember: Always read the instructions. The little booklet of information included with your next skin care purchase? It’s worth taking the time to thoroughly soak it before throwing it out. Many of these ingredients have a time or duration they should only be used, often at night. This would have saved me many breakouts and freakouts if I had known sooner. –Brionna Jimerson, associate social media manager
If it’s not, don’t be bound to what you think is “supposed to” work.
If you suffer from eczema, (hi! Many doctors and derms will tell you to use heavy steroid creams on the skin if you have eczema. However, this is not something I recommend. It’s too much, especially when I have a sensitive patch around my eyes. I did some research online and found a moisturizing lotion (I swear by Dr. Jart + Ceramidin) is a moisturizing toner that doesn’t suffocate the skin for spot treatments. –Shanna Shipin, commerce editor
Your routine is a calculated trial and error.
My top skin-care tip? Treat yourself as a scientist. Skin care is very personal. What works for one person may not work for another. My advice: My advice? Start with the basics: retinol and vitamin C. Take a look at how your skin reacts one-by-one to each of these ingredients. To find out what is causing the changes, eliminate as many variables as possible. Although it can be slow, you will eventually find the right skin-care routine. –Madeline Hirsch, senior social media manager
Sunscreen is the best anti-aging product.
For years, I was ashamed of my skin and ignored the most important advice of all experts: Use sunscreen every day except when you are asleep. I spent a lot of money on serums, but not the one that protects against skin cancer and wrinkles. Why? It’s because sunscreen is bad! It doesn’t smell or feel luxurious. It can be used under makeup. It can be used under makeup. I spent years trying to defeat my true enemy, acne. So how could I justify putting grease on my face? Friends, friends. It’s up to you to choose the sunscreen that suits your needs. All-Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk by Missha sinks into skin and leaves no trace, just like the well-behaved Boy Scouts on a camp site. It is small enough to carry in my purse, and it does not smell like chlorine or sand. You can find the perfect sunscreen for you and stop wasting money on it. This is my wish. –Jenny Singer, staff writer
Your pillowcase can do more for your comfort.
It is important to change your pillows and sheets often for hygiene reasons. However, switching to silk pillowcases has made a huge difference in my hair and skin. Although I know my nighttime routine, I still feel like I need to rub my nighttime creams and oils onto my pillows. My silk pillowcases don’t stick to my skin and I can still feel the moisturizing products on my face in the morning. These options are definitely worth looking at. –Khaliha Hawkins, producer
