Now that the hype about February 14 is over and the big V-Day has passed, let’s talk about break-ups and start a conversation about how we can move on from things that aren’t right for us in life. A break-up doesn’t necessarily have to be with a person, you can move on from anything in your life that’s no longer working for you. Think of this as a second run at your new year’s resolutions!
This February, I have committed to breaking up with dry skin. Every winter, as the temperature drops and our city gets colder, our skin suffers from being exposed to harsher elements. Although I would love to think that an umbrella can solve all problems in Vancouver, we need to come up with a break-up plan to move on from dry skin. To achieve this, I have to go back to the basics and really nail down a skincare routine which works for me – and, like any other break up, focus on sticking with it.
Especially as a lifestyle and beauty blogger for modernmixvancouver.com, sometimes the abundance of available skincare options can be overwhelming. To keep it simple, I like to think of a skincare routine in four steps – no matter what brand or product line you are using, the steps stay the same.
Step 1: Make-Up Remover
Foundation, eyeliner, eyeshadow, blush and lipstick – these are some of the topical products we put on our skin for the sake of beauty. If you’re on a quest to break-up with dry skin, there are certain make-up removers which have hydrating properties so your skin doesn’t tighten up. A good make-up remover will ensure that even the most waterproof of mascaras will slide cleanly off your lashes.
Step 2: Cleanser
After your make up has been removed, you can now focus on cleansing your skin, which helps remove dirt, dead skin cells and bacteria. In the winter, I prefer to switch to an oil-based cleanser because I like the hydrating texture. Other options include gel cleansers and foaming cleansers too – it’s all about personal preference. If your skin feels “tight” after using a cleanser, it probably isn’t the best choice for you. Some cleansers have exfoliating beads or seeds to help clean your pores – make sure you pick a gentle exfoliant otherwise your face will feel like it has been scrubbed with sandpaper!
Step 3: Toner
A toner gently repairs and balances your skin and often leaves your skin feeling freshened. Depending on your skin type, some toners can help reduce the visibility of your pores, while others are made with soothing ingredients to calm your skin and reduce redness and inflammation.
Step 4: Moisturizer
Following these three preparation steps will set your skin up for the final step – moisturizer. A proper moisturizer should not feel greasy (even if you trying to combat dry skin), nor feel like it’s “sitting” on the surface of your skin. Don’t forget to moisturize your neck as well. For the sensitive area around your eye, where the skin is thinner, you can specifically use an eye cream.
By following these five steps, before long, our skin will be glowing again, no matter the season, temperature or weather. Wishing you the best on your quest to break-up and move on from dry skin!
For more stories on breaking up with bad habits, visit breakupandmove.ca.
