When and Why to Update Your Skincare Routine for Results

Should Your Skincare Regimen Change Periodically & How To Know If It’s Time

As the largest organ of your body, your skin deserves a dedicated and adaptive approach to maintain its health and youthfulness.1 In this guide, we’ll explore the basics on building a skincare regimen, delve into the factors influencing your skin, and provide insights into recognizing when it’s time to switch up your routine. Understanding your skin type, adapting to age-related changes, and assessing your current regimen are crucial steps for maintaining healthy and radiant skin.

What is a Skincare Regimen?

A skincare regimen is a personalized routine aimed at nourishing and protecting your skin. It involves a series of steps and products tailored to your skin’s unique needs. From cleansing and moisturizing to targeted treatments, a well-crafted regimen can enhance your skin’s health and appearance when practiced consistently.

A skincare regimen may include the following steps:

Cleansing

Using a toner

Exfoliating

Using targeted serums like those containing retinol, niacinamide, or vitamin C

Applying an eye cream

Moisturizing

Applying SPF

Factors that Affect the Nature of Skin

From genetics to lifestyle choices, various factors affect the nature of your skin. Understanding how these elements interact is key to formulating an effective and sustainable skincare routine.

Factors that affect the nature of skin include:

Genetics: Your genetic makeup plays a significant role in determining your skin type and your susceptibility to certain conditions, such as hyperpigmentation 2and acne.3 There is also evidence that some aspects of aging can be attributed to genetics, as hydration levels tend to vary by ethnicity, and certain gene mutations can affect protein synthesis.4

Environmental influences: External factors such as sun exposure, pollution, climate, and humidity impact the condition of your skin. UV rays, in particular, can cause premature aging and increase the risk of hyperpigmentation and other skin issues.

Lifestyle choices: Lifestyle habits like diet, hydration, smoking, and alcohol consumption can all affect skin health. A balanced lifestyle with proper nutrition and hydration promotes radiant and resilient skin.

Skincare products: The products you use, including cleansers, moisturizers, and serums, contribute to the health of your skin. Using suitable products for your skin type is crucial to avoid irritation and promote positive results.

Hormonal fluctuations: Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can influence your skin health and appearance. These changes may lead to acne, melasma, or changes in skin texture.

Stress: Elevated stress levels can negatively impact your skin, exacerbating issues like acne, eczema, or psoriasis. Practicing stress management techniques is beneficial for maintaining skin health.

Age: As you age, the production of collagen and elastin decreases, leading to changes in skin elasticity and firmness. Understanding age-related changes helps in adapting your skincare routine accordingly..

Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for overall health, and lack of sleep or poor sleep patterns can manifest in the skin. Dark circles, dull complexion, and increased stress can result from insufficient rest.

Allergies and sensitivities: Skin reactions to allergens or irritants contribute to its nature. Identifying and avoiding triggers help in maintaining a healthy and irritation-free complexion.

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Signs It’s Time to Change Your Routine

Your skin communicates its needs, and paying attention to signs of distress or imbalance is crucial. Changes in texture, increased sensitivity, or the development of new concerns may indicate that your current skincare routine needs adjustment.

Some signs that it’s time to change your routine include:

Dryness or irritation

Excessive oil production

General dullness

You’re breaking out

You’re not seeing results

Seasonal changes

Importance of Understanding Your Skin Type

Knowing your skin type is fundamental to choosing the right products and treatments. Whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin, tailoring your regimen to your specific needs ensures optimal results and prevents potential issues.

It’s also worth noting that your skin type may change over time or season to season. What may have worked in the summer may not work as well in the colder winter months. And what may have worked in your 20s may be less helpful in your 40s.

Here’s a brief overview of the five main skin types:

Normal: This type of skin is generally more balanced, and neither too oily nor too dry. Though people with this skin type may not have specific concerns, it is still crucial to have a skincare regimen that helps to maintain balance while protecting against environmental stressors and the changes that come with aging.

Oily: Oily skin is the result of excess sebum production, which may leave you more vulnerable to breakouts. Pores are typically more visible and you may appear shiny or glossy. Products that work best with oily skin include niacinamide, which helps to control sebum production, shrink pores, and minimize redness; azelaic acid is another product for oily skin, which can unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and help to control hormonal acne.

Dry: Dry skin produces less sebum and may appear dull, tight, or rough. Dry skin can also be prone to acne due to a buildup of dead skin cells. A must-have product for dry skin is hyaluronic acid, which works like a magnet for hydration. Vitamin C is another great product for dry skin as it helps to repair the skin barrier.

Combination: As the name suggests, combination skin is simultaneously oily and dry. However, the oily skin tends to be isolated to their T zone, which includes the forehead, nose, and chin. A person with combination skin can benefit from all the products ideal for oily and dry skin: niacinamide, azelaic acid, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C.

Sensitive: Sensitive skin is highly reactive and prone to redness and irritation. Typically, the skin barrier that holds in moisture and protects against environmental stressors is compromised, likely due to harsh products or allergies. Using products that repair the skin barrier gently without drying out skin is key. This includes niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. Some products may have to be introduced gradually, perhaps used every other day over the course of two weeks, and then once a day, while the skin acclimates.

Foundation Skincare offers all of the products mentioned above and each one is suitable for all skin types mentioned. Even more, all the products in the Foundation Skincare line can be safely layered without causing harmful interactions or irritation. As mentioned above, if you have sensitive skin, you may have to introduce new products gradually.

Learn more about devising your ideal skincare regimen according to your skin type.

How to Adapt to Age-Related Changes

As we age, our skin undergoes transformations, such as reduced collagen production and changes in elasticity. Changing your skincare routine to address these age-related changes is vital for maintaining skin health and minimizing the visible effects of aging.

Some products you may want to introduce to your routine to prevent or slow down some signs of aging include retinoids, which are known to boost collagen production, soften lines and wrinkles, and improve firmness and elasticity.

Using an eye cream is also crucial in protecting the delicate skin around your eyes, which is especially vulnerable to signs of aging.

And a quality neck cream that boosts collagen production can also be helpful in lifting, firming, and hydrating your neck and decolletage.

For women, the hormonal fluctuations that accompany perimenopause and menopause may also cause acne breakouts, even if you did not have acne-prone skin in your younger years, as well as a type of hyperpigmentation called melasma. The best products in improving acne and hyperpigmentation include azelaic acid, which helps to destroy bacteria on the skin to help heal and prevent breakouts and also disrupts the link between hormonal changes and sebum production; niacinamide also controls oil production while supporting healthy fats in the skin for a radiant and youthful complexion. Explore even more products for acne breakouts and scarring here.

Also, if you have not yet been as consistent with sunscreen application, there’s no better time than the present. Sun exposure doesn’t just cause sunburns and hyperpigmentation, but it can also accelerate signs of aging. Using an SPF of 30+ (50+ preferred) is a crucial step in caring for your skin no matter what age you are.

How to Assess Your Skincare Routine

Regularly evaluating the effectiveness of your skincare routine is essential. As mentioned before, your skin may change over time and your skincare routine should reflect those changes. Looking for signs that your regimen isn’t working and assessing factors like product compatibility allows you to make informed decisions about adjustments and improvements.

Remember that just because you had oily skin in the past, you don’t have to be “stuck” with that skin type forever. With the right products and the right habits, you can transition to a new skin type and a new level of satisfaction with your routine. Determine your skincare goals and establish a regimen that will help you accomplish them.

Tips for a Seamless Transition

Transitioning between skincare routines can be a delicate process. Implementing changes gradually, incorporating new products strategically, and seeking professional advice when needed can facilitate a seamless transition and optimize the benefits of your regimen.

The next best thing to visiting your dermatologist to achieve your skincare goals is to use dermatologist-formulated products like those in the Foundation Skincare collection, which can (and should) be used together to see the best results.

Some tips for a seamless transition:

Start slowly: If introducing a new product to your routine or replacing one you’ve been using for a while, be sure to introduce one product at a time. This is especially important for those with sensitive skin. If a product calls for a twice-daily application, try using it every other day, and then once a day over the course of 2-3 weeks until you adjust. Monitor for any redness or irritation to assess whether the product is right for you.

Be patient: When introducing new products to your regimen, you may want to see results immediately, but change takes time. Some products, like Foundation Skincare’s Azelaic Acid Cream 14% Cream, may take 6-8 weeks before you start seeing results, with the most changes typically detected in around 90 days.

Follow instructions: If a product calls for a “pea-sized amount” or a “thin layer,” use the right amount. Using more or using too often will not speed up results. It’s always best to see skincare as a marathon, not a print.

Your skin is a dynamic organ that deserves mindful care at every stage of life. By understanding the factors influencing your skin, recognizing signs of change, and adapting your routine accordingly, you empower yourself to achieve and maintain healthy, vibrant skin. Tailoring your skincare regimen to your unique needs ensures that you not only address current concerns but also proactively support the long-term health and resilience of your skin.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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