Skin care diet, skip-care, the anti-10 step skin care routine - these beauty buzz words basically all mean the same thing. They’re all about going back to the basics, downsizing your skin care regimen, and not compromising the image of minimizing pores. I enjoyed the 10 step skin care routine for a good while but I’ll be the first to admit that I found the rules of layering a bit tedious. Do I really need to spend an hour of slapping products on my face just to reduce pores, or can I do it under 15 minutes and make time for other things that I enjoy?

I realized later on that I didn’t actually need all 10 steps to achieve and maintain good skin and the look of minimized pores. If anything, I discovered that my skin thrived once I stopped piling on product after product. Many dermatologists agree that more is not always better, and that it’s possible that a long skin care routine can clog your pores more. If you prefer using several products and have a lengthy skin care routine that works for you, by all means, continue on with your process! However, if you find that you’re using and paying for a lot of products and you’re still at a loss on how to minimize pores, going on a skin care diet may help achieve better skin clarity and minimize the appearance of pores.

Cleanse

 Cleansing is the first step of any good skincare routine. The type of cleanser you use matters more than you think it does --- gentle face washes are the way to go, particularly if you plan on using more active ingredients down the line. Too many people cleanse too much or too often or with a cleanser that's too harsh, and it will actually break down your skin barrier. 

Tone

Toner is an optional step, but if you have a toner you like, you should absolutely use it. Toners can be a good way to balance your skin's pH levels. If you have acne-prone skin, look for a toner with ingredients like salicylic acid to calm breakouts. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a hydrating toner to soothe. 

Moisturizer

After you have treated your skin, it's time to moisture. Moisturizer keeps your skin hydrated and helps strengthen your skin barrier. For daytime use, opt for a lighter moisturizer that will soak in quickly and won't cause piling under makeup.

Eye Cream

The skin around our eyes can handle more active ingredients like retinol. You don't have to use a lot, but if you start training your skin to tolerate more active products around the eye, you'll see more change. You can pat a bit of your serum or treatment around your eye area, then follow up by using your favorite eye cream. 

As always, always patch skin test before application of new, after shelf-life, or unknown products as some issues for concern can take UP TO 2 Hours before showing signs of irritations.