Struggling with your AM skincare routine? Try these 9 tips for glowing skin
Taking care of your skin is important, and having a solid AM skincare routine is a great way to start your day (and skin!) off right.
Whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned pro, there are a few key steps you should include in your AM routine. In this article, I’ll break down each step of an effective AM skincare routine and provide tips and recommendations to help you create a routine that works for you.
A good morning routine can help to protect your skin from the elements, keep it hydrated, and prevent signs of aging.
What are the benefits of having an AM skincare routine?
Taking care of your skin is essential to maintain a healthy and glowing complexion. Establishing an AM skincare routine can provide numerous benefits for your skin’s health and appearance. Here are a few reasons why you should consider having an AM skincare routine:
Prevents breakouts:
Starting your day with a clean and refreshed face can help prevent breakouts caused by oil, sweat, and bacteria that accumulate on your skin while you sleep. I want “pimples and zits all over my face,” said no one ever, so an effective AM skincare routine can prevent just that!
Prevents premature aging:
Incorporating anti-aging products in your AM skincare routine can help prevent you from looking like the crypt keeper! premature aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Protects your skin from environmental stressors:
Applying a moisturizer with SPF in the morning can help protect your skin from harmful UV rays and other environmental stressors such as pollution.
Boosts hydration:
Applying hydrating products in the morning can help boost your skin’s hydration levels, leaving it plump and radiant.
Improves makeup application:
Starting your day with a clean and moisturized face can improve the application and longevity of your makeup.
AM Skincare Routine Basics
Establishing an AM skincare routine is essential for healthy, glowing skin. Your morning routine should be focused on protecting your skin from the outside elements, such as UV rays and pollution, and preparing it for the day ahead.
Here are the basics you need to know to create an effective AM skincare routine:
Step 1: Cleanse
The first step in your morning routine should be to cleanse your face. Cleansing will help remove any dirt, oil, or sweat that may have accumulated on your skin overnight. Use a gentle cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.
Do you need to wash your face in the morning?
Yes, you should wash your face in the morning. While you sleep, your skin produces oil and sweat, and your face can accumulate bacteria and dead skin cells. Cleansing in the morning helps to remove these impurities and prepare your skin for the day ahead.
Remember, cleansing is just one step in your AM skincare routine.
Disclaimer: Don’t over-cleanse
While cleansing is an essential step in any skincare routine, over-cleansing can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. It’s important to find a gentle cleanser that works for your skin type and use it only as needed.
If you have oily skin, you may benefit from a foaming cleanser that helps to remove excess oil and impurities. If you have dry or sensitive skin, a cream or lotion cleanser may be a better option.
When cleansing, be sure to use lukewarm water to avoid damaging your skin. Massage the cleanser onto your face in circular motions for about 30 seconds, then rinse thoroughly and pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
Step 2: Toner
After cleansing your face in the morning, the next step in your AM skincare routine is toning. Toner is a liquid that helps to remove any remaining dirt, oil, or makeup that your cleanser may have missed. It also helps to balance your skin’s pH levels, which can be disrupted by the use of harsh cleansers.
After cleansing, use a toner to balance your skin’s pH levels and remove any remaining impurities. Toners can also help to hydrate and soothe the skin.
When choosing a toner, look for one that is alcohol-free and contains ingredients that are beneficial to your skin type, such as witch hazel or rose water. For example, if you have oily skin, look for a toner that contains salicylic acid or witch hazel, which can help to control oil production.
If you have dry skin, look for a toner that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.Just be sure to choose a toner that is right for your skin type and use it gently to avoid irritation.
Incorporating toner into your AM skincare routine can help to improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.
To apply toner, simply pour a small amount onto a cotton pad and swipe it over your face, avoiding the eye area. You can also pat it into your skin with your hands. Be gentle when applying toner, as rubbing too hard can cause irritation.
Step 3: Serum
Serums are concentrated formulas that target specific skin concerns, such as fine lines, dark spots, or uneven skin tone. Apply a serum after toning to give your skin an extra boost of hydration and nourishment. Look for serums that contain antioxidants like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid.
The Best and Worst Serums to Apply in the Morning
When choosing a serum for your morning routine, it’s important to consider the ingredients and the texture of the serum. Here are some of the best and worst serums to apply in the morning:
Best serums:
- Vitamin C serums: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your skin from free radicals and environmental stressors. It also helps brighten your skin and even out your skin tone.
- Hyaluronic acid serums: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that helps hydrate your skin and plump up fine lines and wrinkles.
- Niacinamide serums: Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that helps reduce inflammation and redness, and it also helps regulate oil production.
Worst serums:
- Retinol serums: Retinol is a powerful anti-aging ingredient, but it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. It’s best to use retinol at night.
- Acids: Acids like glycolic acid and salicylic acid can be too harsh for your skin in the morning. They are best used at night.
Serums are a great addition to your morning skincare routine. They are lightweight and easily absorbed, and they penetrate the skin to deliver a concentrated dose of antioxidants, vitamins, and active ingredients. However, it’s essential to use sunscreen as some serums like Viatmen C can make your skin more sun-sensitive (which I’ll talk more about further down!).
Optional: Eyecream
If you’re wondering whether or not you should be using eye cream in the morning, the answer is yes! The delicate skin around your eyes is one of the first areas to show signs of aging and fatigue, so it’s important to give it some extra TLC.
Eye cream should be applied BEFORE moisturizer for the best benefits.
Applying eye cream in the morning can help to hydrate and protect this delicate area, while also reducing the appearance of puffiness and dark circles.
When choosing an eye cream for your morning routine, look for one that contains ingredients like caffeine, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients can help to brighten and firm the skin, while also providing a boost of hydration.
To apply your eye cream in the morning, simply use your ring finger to gently tap a small amount of product around the orbital bone. Be sure to avoid applying the cream too close to your lash line, as this can cause irritation.
Overall, adding an eye cream to your morning skincare routine can help to keep your eyes looking bright and refreshed all day long.
Step 4: Moisturize
After cleansing and toning your skin, it’s important to moisturize to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Moisturizing is an essential step in any skincare routine, and your morning routine is no exception.
Moisturizing helps to prevent dryness, flakiness, and premature aging. Here are some tips for moisturizing your skin in the morning:
- Choose a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type. If you have oily skin, look for a lightweight moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. If you have dry skin, choose a richer moisturizer that will provide more hydration.
- Apply your moisturizer while your skin is still damp to help lock in moisture.
- Don’t forget to apply moisturizer to your neck and chest, as these areas can also show signs of aging.
- If you’re going to be outside, make sure to apply a moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- If you have sensitive skin, look for a moisturizer that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.
Step 5: SPF
Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing premature aging. Sun exposure can lead to wrinkles, dark spots, and even skin cancer. That’s why it’s essential to incorporate sun protection into your morning skincare routine.
The first step in sun protection is to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and any other areas that will be exposed to the sun.
Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial for preventing premature aging and skin damage. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 as the final step in your morning routine
If you’re worried about your sunscreen interfering with your makeup, there are many sunscreens available that are specifically designed to be worn under makeup. Look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas that won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts. Additionally, you can skin this step when it applying a moisturizer that also includes SPF.
In addition to sunscreen, you can also protect your skin from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. These accessories not only provide additional protection but also add a stylish touch to your outfit.
Remember, sun protection is not just for the beach or outdoor activities. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still penetrate the skin, so it’s essential to make sun protection a part of your daily routine. By taking the necessary steps to protect your skin from the sun, you can maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin for years to come.
How to choose the Right Products for Your Skin Type
When it comes to building an effective AM skincare routine, choosing the right products for your skin type is crucial. Here are some tips to help you identify your skin type and select the best products for your morning routine.
Identifying Your Skin Type
Before you can choose the right skincare products, you need to know your skin type. Here are the four most common skin types:
- Normal skin: Balanced, not too oily or dry
- Dry skin: Lacks oil and can feel tight or flaky
- Oily skin: Produces excess oil and can feel greasy
- Combination skin: A mix of oily and dry areas
To determine your skin type, wash your face and wait an hour. If your skin feels tight and dry, you likely have dry skin. If your skin feels oily, you likely have oily skin. If your skin feels balanced, you likely have normal skin. If you have oily skin in some areas and dry skin in others, you likely have combination skin.
Ingredients to Look For
When selecting skincare products, look for ingredients that are beneficial for your skin type. Here are some ingredients to consider:
- Hyaluronic acid: Great for dry skin, as it helps to hydrate and plump the skin
- Antioxidants (such as vitamin C): Great for all skin types, as they help to protect the skin from environmental stress and brighten the complexion
- Retinol: Great for mature skin, as it helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Niacinamide: Great for oily skin, as it helps to control oil production and reduce the appearance of pores
- Ceramides: Great for sensitive or delicate skin, as they help to restore the skin’s natural barrier
Ingredients to Avoid
Certain ingredients can be irritating or harmful to certain skin types. Here are some ingredients to avoid:
- Alcohol: Can be drying and irritating to the skin
- Fragrance: Can be irritating to sensitive skin
- Harsh exfoliants: Can be damaging to delicate or dry skin
- Heavy oils: Can be too greasy for oily skin
By selecting products with the right ingredients for your skin type and avoiding those that could be harmful, you can build an effective AM skincare routine that will leave your skin looking and feeling its best.
Key Ingredients for AM Skincare Routine
When it comes to your AM skincare routine, the right ingredients can make all the difference. Here are some key ingredients to consider incorporating into your routine:
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are essential for protecting your skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. Look for ingredients like vitamin C, green tea extract, and resveratrol to help brighten and even out your skin tone while also providing protection against free radicals.
Retinoids
Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve texture, and boost collagen production. However, retinoids can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so make sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF after applying a retinoid product.
Acids
Acids like salicylic acid and glycolic acid can help exfoliate your skin, unclog pores, and improve overall skin texture. However, it’s important to use acids in moderation and make sure they’re appropriate for your skin type. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to avoid harsher acids like lactic acid and stick to gentler options like mandelic acid.
Essence
An essence is a lightweight, hydrating product that can help boost your skin’s moisture levels and improve absorption of other skincare products. Look for essences containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help plump and hydrate your skin.
Remember, not all ingredients are suitable for every skin type. It’s important to consider your skin’s unique needs and concerns when selecting products for your AM skincare routine. Always patch test new products and introduce them gradually to avoid irritation or breakouts.
AM Skincare Routine Tips
When it comes to maintaining healthy and glowing skin, having an effective AM skincare routine is crucial. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your morning skincare routine:
Use a Gentle Touch
When cleansing your face in the morning, make sure to use a gentle touch. Over-cleansing or using harsh products can strip your skin of its natural oils and disrupt its delicate balance. Opt for a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser that is suitable for your skin type.
Layer Your Products
Layering your skincare products in the right order can help you get the most out of each product. Start with a lightweight serum or essence, followed by a moisturizer to lock in hydration. If you plan to wear foundation or makeup, use a primer to create a smooth base.
Be Consistent
Consistency is key when it comes to skincare. Stick to your AM skincare routine every day to help your skin stay healthy and radiant. Don’t forget to exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
Sleep on a Satin Pillow
Sleeping on a satin pillowcase can help prevent wrinkles, dark circles, and bags under your eyes. Satin is gentle on your skin and hair, reducing friction and preventing damage.
Bonus: Drink Water Early in the Morning
Drinking water early in the morning can help hydrate your skin from the inside out. This can help improve your skin’s texture and tone, as well as boost your overall health.
Incorporating these tips into your AM skincare routine can help you protect and nourish your skin, rebuild collagen synthesis, and defend against harmful UV rays and oxidative damage. Remember to always protect your skin and take care of it by following these skincare steps.
Do You Need an AM and PM Skincare Routine?
Taking care of your skin is important, but do you really need both an AM and PM skincare routine? The answer is yes, and here’s why.
During the day, your skin is exposed to various environmental factors such as pollution, UV rays, and dirt. These factors can cause damage to your skin, leading to premature aging, wrinkles, and other skin issues. That’s why it’s important to have an AM skincare routine that focuses on protecting your skin from these harmful elements.
On the other hand, while you sleep, your skin goes into repair mode. During this time, your skin cells regenerate and repair themselves from any damage that occurs during the day. That’s why it’s important to have a PM skincare routine that focuses on nourishing and repairing your skin.
By having both an AM and PM skincare routine, you’re giving your skin the best chance to look and feel its best. Here are some key benefits of having both routines:
- AM skincare routine helps protect your skin from environmental factors
- PM skincare routine helps repair and nourish your skin while you sleep
- Regular skin care routine can improve the overall health and appearance of your skin
- Using the right products can address specific skin concerns such as acne, dryness, and aging
While having a simple am and pm skincare routine is definitely recommended, remember consistency is the most important key when it comes to skincare. By incorporating both an AM and PM routine into your daily life, you’re taking an important step towards achieving healthy, glowing skin.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of this guide on AM skincare routine. By now, you should have a good understanding of the importance of taking care of your skin in the morning and the steps involved in building an effective routine.
Remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare. Stick to your routine, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. It may take time, but with patience and dedication, you’ll soon start noticing a difference in your skin’s health and appearance.
Here are a few key takeaways to keep in mind:
- Cleansing is an essential step to remove any excess dirt, oil, or pollutants from your skin.
- Toning helps to balance your skin’s pH levels and prepares it for the next steps in your routine.
- Serum and treatments can target specific skin concerns, such as fine lines, dark spots, or acne.
- Moisturizing is crucial to keep your skin hydrated and protected throughout the day.
- Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging.
Don’t forget to listen to your skin and adjust your routine as needed. If you notice any irritation or discomfort, try switching to gentler products or consult with a dermatologist.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to achieving healthy, glowing skin. Keep up the good work!
Frequently Asked Questions: AM skincare routine
How can I adjust my AM skincare routine for different skin types?
When it comes to skincare, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Your AM skincare routine should be tailored to your specific skin type. For example, if you have dry skin, you may want to use a hydrating serum or moisturizer in the morning to help lock in moisture.
If you have oily skin, you may want to use a lightweight moisturizer or skip moisturizer altogether. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to avoid products with harsh ingredients or fragrances.
What are the best products for an AM skincare routine?
The best products for your AM skincare routine will depend on your skin type and concerns. However, there are some basic products that everyone should consider using in the morning. These include a gentle cleanser, a toner, a serum or moisturizer with SPF, and an eye cream. Look for products that are specifically formulated for daytime use and that contain ingredients like antioxidants and hyaluronic acid.
How can I create a simple yet effective AM skincare routine?
Creating a simple yet effective AM skincare routine starts with understanding your skin type and concerns. Start by cleansing your skin with a gentle cleanser, followed by a toner to help balance your skin’s pH levels.
Next, apply a serum or moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Finally, apply an eye cream to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Remember, you don’t need to use a ton of products to see results. Focus on using high-quality, effective products that work for your skin.
What are some common mistakes to avoid in an AM skincare routine?
One of the most common mistakes people make in their AM skincare routine is skipping sunscreen. Even if you’re not planning on spending a lot of time outside, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Another mistake is using too many products or using products that are too harsh for your skin type. This can lead to irritation and breakouts. Finally, make sure you’re using products in the right order. Start with the thinnest consistency products first and work your way up to thicker products.
In my next article, I’m sharing how I make my skin glow overnight!
