Seasonal product switches are recommended to protect against the changing elements and our skincare routine tips for 2023 support this ethos.
The trick is to remember to use lighter daily moisturising products as the weather warms up and richer creams to provide an effective barrier when things cool down. One thing that must never change - all daytime products should contain an SPF of at least 20. Yes, even during the winter months.
When it comes to this year's trends, skincare is reverting to tried and trusted basics. Expensive and fad products are off the table.
With money tight, nobody has got spare cash to waste on electronic gadgets and 'smart' products that under-perform but cost a bomb.
So, for this guide, I will focus on the important basics that deliver results and are also affordable.
1. Exfoliation
Dead skin cells and layers of baked-on grime don't just block the pores, they make the skin look dull. That is why exfoliation is an absolute 'must' and my Top Tip for 2023.
You don't have to exfoliate every day to reveal radiant, glowing skin. Aim for at least twice a week.
Tips for exfoliating:
Never use an exfoliating scrub with an electronic cleansing device
Apply light pressure only
Choose an exfoliator that provides moisturisation
Rinse well and pat dry
If you want to use an electronic product to exfoliate, use it with a gentle foaming cleanser and for no more than two minutes
Applying too much pressure when exfoliating can damage the skin. As well as causing redness, it can lead to broken capillaries. Be sensible; go easy.
2. Brightening Toners
Popular throughout 2022, the trend for brightening toners will continue to be a staple of skincare routines this year.
As well as reducing the appearance of dark spots, this is a product that smooths the skin - making the application of a serum and/or moisturiser effortless.
I recommend this type of toner for those looking to achieve naturally glowing skin.
Toner Tips:
Use morning and night for best results
Vitamin C toners are ideal and have come down in price
Even inexpensive brightening toners can include some powerful ingredients, such as glycolic acid and niacinamide
Ensure the toner you use is not drying - look for moisturising properties such as aloe vera and hyaluronic acid
Believe it or not, one of the best brightening toners I tested last year was from Poundland's #6 range.
3. Layering Serums
Yes, you can target more than one skin concern at once.
Layering serums isn't new, but it is catching on. The trick here is to always use the lightest serum first. For example, apply a hyaluronic acid serum before you reach for the heavier Argan oil.
If the serums you want to use have a similar weight, apply the moisturising one first.
Serum Tips:
Don't layer more than two serums
Choose products that will offer the biggest benefits - for example, if you have dry, mature skin, any combination of retinol, hyaluronic acid or Vitamin C
Watch the strength - if you are new to serums, don't start with high-strength products
An effortless alternative to layering serums is to buy an all-in-one ACE serum, which is formulated with a combination of vitamins A (retinol), C and E.
4. Moisturising Night Creams
It is hard to believe but... Not all night creams are moisturising. This can be especially true with anti-ageing products. If you've ever tried one and woken up with dry-feeling skin, you will know what I mean.
If you use a serum, you should ideally aim to use a cream or gel that will lock that product into your skin AND deliver moisturisation.
One of the best products I've used that achieves both is cheaper than chips - Boots Glow Peach Jelly Moisturiser. It's £4.50 and can also be used as a make-up primer.
Products that contain cica are a good bet, along with hyaluronic creams and gels.
Night Cream Tips:
Think of your serum as the miracle worker and the night cream as the enabler
Don't waste money on a cream that includes SPF for night-time use
Keep it simple - a cream that purports to target multiple skin concerns may not deliver all-night hydration
Don't be afraid to use a gel overnight
More Skincare Routine Tips for 2023
Multi-purpose products are under-rated. Cica balms, facial oils and moisturising gels are all savvy buys.
Facial oils, along with gel moisturisers, are great make-up primers and can also be used to target dry patches of skin on the arms and legs. Some facial oils can also be beneficial to cuticles and nails.
Remember to store skincare products correctly. Keep serums out of direct sunlight.
Pay attention to hygiene, too. Only use clean towels and cloths, and always wash your hands before applying any product to the face.
As well as keeping things simple, there is just one more very important thing to mention - keep up your routine! After all, if you don't follow the same steps every day, it's not a routine - it's potentially a complete waste of time.
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