Your Skincare Wardrobe

A power suit for board meetings? Check. A sultry slip dress for date night? Got it. Having fashion solutions for every occasion takes the guesswork (read: stress) out of getting ready, making room for the confident, well-dressed you. Your skincare cabinet can, and should, function the same way — an edit of steadfast staples to rely on through all seasons of life and skin woes, including core basics for everyday routines, and glamorous extras for addressing specific issues or indulging in self-care.

Building a streamlined, effective skincare wardrobe comes down to the basics — cleansing, repairing, protecting. While everyone’s skin and needs are different, this guide takes you through the products and skincare rules to get the healthy, radiant skin you’ve always wanted.

Cleansing

The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing, as when done properly, it removes dirt and debris that often lead to breakouts, and preps the skin to allow for subsequent products to work effectively. Cleansing, and not over-cleansing, is key. Leaving the skin squeaky clean is a definite no, as it strips away all the microbiomes (good bacteria) and protective oils needed for healthy functioning skin. Instead, take a gentle approach. Though not always necessary (like during your morning routine or if you aren’t wearing makeup or SPF), double cleansing is a sure way to clean the skin, particularly if you live in a busy, polluted city. The first cleanse breaks down and removes buildup on the skin surface, while the second cleanse treats the skin on a deeper level. A non-greasy, balm cleanser such as Clinique’s Take The Day Off Balm ($68, at Bridgetown Duty Free) is incredibly effective at breaking down dirt, makeup and sunscreen. For a second cleanse, Tata Harper’s range (from $140, at Pure Source) offers something for everyone, including gentle gels or light creams, no matter your skin type and condition. 

Cleansing tends to disrupt the pH of the skin’s normal acidic level. Nothing to be alarmed by; most cleansers lean towards more alkaline allowing for that cleaning effect. Fortunately there’s a tried-and-true solution to this pH imbalance: toner. Think of toner like the beginning of your treatment portion of the routine, with a properly formulated one functioning to restore balance, gently exfoliate, add hydration and allow for better absorption of the following products.

Protecting

Skin is constantly struggling with the damaging effects of lifestyle and environmental factors such as poor sleep, stress, sun and pollution. These contribute to compromising the skin barrier, and increasing the signs of premature aging. That’s why it is necessary to build up the skin’s defense, as this helps to boost radiance and resilience.

With so much information about what to use and when, the one key ingredient to include in your daily routine is vitamin C. Its potent antioxidant properties makes it an ideal first line of defense to protect the skin, while also boosting collagen and brightening the complexion. Plus, when paired with a daily sunscreen (aka a skincare nonnegotiable), studies show that Vitamin C amplifies protection from sun exposure compared to just sunscreen alone. Think of it like your favourite jeans and t-shirt look — great staples on their own, but a winning combo together.

Most dermatologists and skin experts recommend wearing a sunscreen that is at least factor 30, and offers broad-spectrum protection. Kristyl Beauty’s Ultra Clear Daily Sunscreen SPF 40 ($94, at kristyl.com) melts into the skin to protect against UVA/UVB rays and high-energy visible (HEV) light. If you’re after a multifunctional solution, TONAL Cosmetics’ Skin Perfecting Foundation with SPF 50 ($70, at tonalcosmetics.com) gives medium-buildable coverage, protects against sun damage, and pairs skincare actives to nourish and protect the skin.

Hydration

Whether your skin is dry or oily, the reality is the majority of us (oily skin types included) are dehydrated. The skin constantly loses water due to environmental and lifestyle factors. A good moisturizer acts as a sealant to prevent moisture loss, and has added hydration heroes, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides. Texture is key, and so choose a moisturizer that suits the climate, and your skin type and condition. Dry skin can use rich, heavier creams like Augustinus Bader’s Rich Cream ($540, at Sephora), whereas combination to oily skin will prefer lightweight lotions and gels. Try Clinique’s Moisture Surge™ Hydrating Supercharged Concentrate ($82, at Bridgetown Duty Free).  

Added extras

Unless you’re Steve Jobs or Mark Zuckerberg, chances are you don’t wear the same outfit every day. Like your fashion closet, your skincare wardrobe should be versatile enough to handle changes in weather, and skin condition. Think spot treatment for unexpected breakouts, gentle exfoliator to slough off dead skin, and potent serum for targeting specific concerns. Not to mention, skincare should be about taking care and feeling good. Light your favourite candle, and enjoy these few moments to yourself.