Dr. Humphrey’s Skincare Non-Negotiables
I often hear that getting started with skincare is overwhelming — and it doesn’t surprise me. For many of us, our introduction to skincare was through a mother or a grandmother whose multi-step, twice-a-day program took over the entire bathroom vanity. Pair that with access to more information (and opinions) than ever before, it’s easy to fall into analysis paralysis and feel stuck before you ever get started.
Glowing, healthy skin requires consistency, dedication and the right products. Ideally, everyone would have a customized regimen tailored to their skin, but that’s not always the case. Like anyone else, my life gets in the way of a perfect skincare routine sometimes, but having a clear non-negotiables list helps me focus my time and energy, and gives me confidence that I’ve got the right foundations in place.
Here are the three products I never skip.
Sunscreen
Sun protection is the most effective cosmeceutical you can invest in — and it’s one you’ve likely been using to some degree for your entire life. Finding the right SPF for your skin and lifestyle is so important when creating a long-term routine.
Once you’ve landed on a formulation that feels comfortable for everyday use, build it into your daily skincare regimen — even in the winter. Not only are the sun’s harmful rays more present than you might think, but getting into the habit of applying a sunscreen daily helps to make it feel second nature when the warmer weather rolls in.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants make the cut for a long list of reasons. Their protective mechanisms help to reduce UV exposure and pigment augmentation, and slow the loss of collagen and elastic fibres — all things that contribute to the appearance of fine lines, age spots and an overall tired aesthetic.
Think about antioxidants as the key to a healthy complexion. They work hard to preserve the integrity of your skin, so that you look and feel your best for the long run.
Retinol
Speaking of antioxidants, retinol in particular is the final non-negotiable on my list. Otherwise known as Vitamin A, Retinol stimulates collagen production, softens fine lines, smoothes skin tone, and even treats acne — not to mention its benefits to the rest of your health.
Since retinol comes in various strengths, it’s best to consult your dermatologist to identify the best formulation for you. And be sure to pair it with sunscreen since retinol can make the skin more sensitive — luckily, that’s already on the list of non-negotiables.
Getting started with skincare doesn’t have to feel daunting or stressful — and you’re much better off building a foundation that’s truly repeatable than losing your steam with an overwhelming, time-intensive regimen. Start with the basics and train yourself to appreciate your daily skincare routine as another form of self-care.
Are you looking to customize your non-negotiables list? We would love to hear from you.
