When it comes to natural skincare there’s no doubt many of us still have unanswered questions about how to use the products correctly. Including what are the must-have products for your skin type, or when you should start using anti-aging products, to how to change your skin care routine when the seasons change. We have rounded up a list of questions that are frequently asked by women and we have answered them all, leaving no room for doubt.

1. What products should everyone have in their skincare routine? 

The first thing to keep in mind is to include the basics starting with a cleanser, exfoliator, moisturizer and sunscreen. These four products are non-negotiable. The key is to be consistent with your skincare routine and then if you want you can start introducing one new product at a time, to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

2. Acneic skin: Does it matter what you eat?

For the most part, an acneic skin condition comes down to your hormones and genetics. Diet may have a role in controlling acne, but to say diet alone will cure all your acne woes is not realistic. Instead, consider diet as having a supplementary role in controlling acne like other factors such as stress control, good skin care and proper medical treatments for acne. Make sure to check out our blog post on foods to eliminate for healthier skin.

3. How often should you exfoliate?

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells, blackheads, and whiteheads from your skin’s surface.

It is important to build tolerance in your skin when using active ingredients. Normal and oily skin types can usually handle a gentle exfoliant 2-3 times per week. If you’re using a stronger exfoliant, cut back to once a week. If you have sensitive skin or dry skin, stick with a gentle exfoliation session once a week. It’s best to start with a chemical exfoliant like glycolic and mandelic acid. They’re derived from fruits and milk and are safe to use on a regular basis.

4. Should we be using different products in the morning vs nighttime?

Think of your morning products as having a preventative role. I’d recommend using vitamin C and SPF as part of your morning routine. These products work as an antioxidant and sun protector.

In the evening, detoxifying and cleansing your skin is vital to remove traces of environmental pollutants that have accumulated throughout the day. Ingredients such as bakuchiol and hyaluronic acid should be applied to clean skin in the evening to help accelerate the skin’s repair functions as you sleep.

5. How do I know what skin type I have?

This is the top question most people ask. There are four key skin types – oily, dry, normal and combination skin. Knowing which one you are is the first step to building a proper skincare routine. If you're using products that aren't designed to help your skin type and skin condition it will result in more frustration and problematic conditions. Don't want that right? Learn more about how to decipher your skin type and skin condition.

6. What is the correct order of skincare products?

The rule of thumb when applying skincare is to apply the lightest first and the heaviest last, since thinner products can’t penetrate thicker products. You can learn more here.

7. How long does it take to notice a change in my skin from skincare products?

Your cellular turnover (how quickly dead cells shed and new cells surface) is about 28 days, and this rate slows down even more as we age. As a rule of thumb, you can expect to begin to see changes from a new skincare product in about a month with consistent use. In addition, you must follow your new skincare routine for at least three months to understand if it has been significantly effective.

Another factor to consider is the active ingredients you are looking to add to your routine. For example, you may see results quicker with your exfoliant versus say bakuchiol for pigmentation. Others can take longer, and more time to make a real impact. Either way, all products work over-time and tend to take between weeks and months to make visible improvements.

8.  What is the right age to start using anti-aging products?

The skin’s aging process is very individual and can be affected by many factors such as your skin type, genetics, lifestyle, and sun exposure. We recommend the use of anti-aging products as early as in your 20s. Using anti-aging products before signs become fully visible on your skin is an effective way to slow down the aging process and delay its onset. The sooner you start using anti-aging products, the less likely you will develop fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots on your skin.

9. Do I really need to wear sunscreen every day?

Yes, without fail, one must wear sunscreen every single day. Sunscreen protects our skin from UVA and UVB rays that damage the skin, and it also helps prevent premature aging. Plus, it can also protect us from skin cancer and other skin disorders.

10. Why shouldn’t I do extractions myself at home?

Unless you are trained on how to do extractions properly, there is a very good chance that you will likely do more harm to your skin than good. Leave the extractions to your esthetician.

11.  How can I make my pores smaller?

Pore size my dear is genetic, you cannot actually change the size, but you can make them appear smaller by keeping them clear of oil and debris and by boosting your skin’s collagen and elastin.

An occasional at-home chemical peel can do the trick with a product like Pure Fiji’s Glycolic Overnight Renewal Peel. Renew and resurface the skin overnight with this powerful blend of glycolic and mandelic acid enhanced with niacinamide and extracts of fresh garden sprouts. Fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, acne scars and enlarged pores will be dramatically diminished.

12. How often should I get a professional facial?

You should receive a professional facial once within your cell turnover cycle (this means once every 4-6 weeks depending on your age). If you find your skin is fully balanced, and you have no skin conditions needing to be treated, a facial once a season is an acceptable practice.

Summary

These are some of the most common skincare questions that every person comes across in her skincare journey. If you have any queries about Pure Fiji products or natural skincare, feel free to reach out to us.