Sunscreen is an important part of any skincare routine. It’s for all skin. This month, May is skin cancer awareness month. It’s recommended by experts that you should be using a broad spectrum formula, which protects you from both UVA and UVB rays with at least SPF 30. Did you know that on cloudy days up to 80% or more of UV (Ultra Violet) rays penetrate clouds? “An estimated 80 percent of skin aging is caused by the sun” – Skin Cancer Foundation.
Here are 5 Uses of Sunscreen:
It lowers your risk of skin cancer.
Prevents premature aging.
Enhances skin health.
Prevents sunburn.
Reduces dark spots (hyperpigmentation).
Tips for choosing a sunscreen
Choose a sunscreen that is reef- safe
Opt for a mineral sunscreen
Go for a sunscreen that won’t give you a white cast especially if you have darker skin. One you can try is Coppertone Every Tone.
These sunscreens usually avoid harmful ingredients such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and pthalates. Mineral-based sunscreens are normally based in the ingredients titanium oxide and mineral oxide.
If you are tired of dull skin and are looking for a solution, here are some ingredients to look out 🕵️‍♀️ for in your skincare products.
The scientific names for each are included so it’s easier for you to spot in the ingredients list . Follow our social media page on Facebook @capitalfemme for more.
“The UK’s sales of skin toners have increased due to the increasing percentage of consumer use. For instance, British consumers spend 1.28 billion euros on women’s facial skin care products. Within this, 25% of women use a toner in 2019, but in the year 2020, 31% of women use toner.”
Some may think using a toner is a bit outdated. As someone who started out with this product in my skincare routine as a beginner, when it was all the rave. I can tell you from experience that it does make a difference in the appearance of your skin versus without it. This is especially true if you have oily skin. Toners have come a long way. Today’s toners focus on refreshing and hydrating the skin.
Demand for toners in Europe is high and this trend continues. Many toners on the market come in liquid, mist or gel form. Look at the UK, for example, which was mentioned above. Now let’s get into the benefits of toner, and they may vary depending on the kind of toner you use.
1. Cleansing
Personally this is the biggest benefit I’ve seen from using toner. It just gets that left over dirt or residue after cleansing and this is so important if you want to keep your pores clear. This is important to my oily skin readers.
2. Improvement of skin tone and texture
My second highest benefit from personal experience is that it helps ensure a uniform skin tone across your face. It also works on any texture and makes your skin so smooth, leaves you with some glow too ✨. Some toners may cause irritation due to overuse, depending on the ingredients in your routine and skin type. For example, using more than one acidic product daily.
3. Hydrating
Please please please use toners that are alcohol- free so you can avoid drying out your skin. I know that in times gone by that using certain popular brands have left the skin feeling tight. If you can, try to use a toner that will hydrate instead of drying out the skin.
4. Helps with absorption
Since using a toner generally gets rid of any dirt, makeup, dead skin cells or residue left after cleansing. This preps your skin making it easier to absorb the other products in your routine.
5. Minimize the appearance of pores
they do this by removing any excess oil, dirt or bacteria. It also helps seal pores to protect your skin from environmental stressors.
6. Helps balance your skin’s pH
It does this by having a neutral or slightly acidic pH, which balances out your skin’s alkaline nature after cleansing.
Takeaway
Normally you would want to use a toner as the second step after cleansing in your routine. Choose toners that are vegan or natural for healthy skin in the long run. Stick with products that make you look and feel good.
Also, don’t mistake a toner for an astringent, which is alcohol based and tends to be drying. Some toners have slightly acidic properties to help make your skin smooth and cleanse your pores. I would recommend you try it if you haven’t already or if you’ve stopped using it to add it back to your routine. Peace and love ♥
Sometimes in life you might look for validation and approval of others to measure your self- worth. This is something that is found within and not the other way around. You may find yourself jumping through hoops to be recognized at work or at home. Leaving you drained and stressed. While it’s important to have goals and nothing wrong with trying to achieve them. A line must be drawn. Know that you are enough and that we all make mistakes. This doesn’t mean that we have to be completely self-sufficient. It’s okay to ask for and accept help. It means you know your strengths and limitations. None of us are perfect. Please be kind to yourself and take the time to take care of you ♥
Life can get busy and crowded sometimes and it seems like you don’t have enough time in the day. Remember self- care is even more important on those days to replenish your energy 🔋. Make time for you.
In a study conducted by OnePoll 64% of Americans feel guilty for not taking their skincare seriously and 58% wished they could go back in time to take care of their skin when they were younger.
Why is skin care important?
Skin care is essential because it protects, preserves and keeps your skin healthy. Maintaining a routine has both physical and emotional benefits like the ones below.
No matter where you are in your journey, I’ve put together a few general skincare tips that will help you keep your skin looking its best.
1. Keep your hands off your face as much as possible
Only clean materials, items and hands should touch your face.
2. Try to reduce popping pimples or acne
This can help reduce acne scarring and dark spots (hyperpigmentation) instead try gently exfoliating, applying a clay mask, or some retinol. A study found that 43% of people regret picking at their acne.
3. Cleanse and moisturize daily:
Your skin will thank you for this over time, helps to reduce acne, early signs of aging and improve your skin’s texture by making it smoother. Take note that using only water will not cleanse your skin properly.
4. Use non-comedogenic products:
As you may know, these are products that will not clog your pores. Sun protection is also important.
5. Stay hydrated
This helps your skin be firmer and plump. It can also benefit you to have a healthier diet, reducing trans fat and processed food consumption, in exchange for whole foods like nuts, fruits & vegetables.
You can prevent things like premature aging, sun spots and even cancer.
I know sometimes life can get busy, start small, even if it’s for just 10 minutes. These tips apply no matter what your skin type is, your age, gender and whether you’re just starting out or have an advanced routine. You can implement these tips one at a time and you will see a difference.
