Stay Hydrated, Not Irritated
Spring semester has begun, but the weather is still far from feeling like “spring”. The cold is feared by many, as proven by people who are cocooned within their knitted scarves and thick jackets. Even if you don’t dread the chilly weather, your skin dreads the cold for sure. Day by day, the cold steals the moisture out of your skin, leaving it lifeless and dull. And before you know it, you’re left with patches of dry and irritated skin *gasp*.
We all know that Berkeley students have no time to indulge in a “10 step Korean skincare routine” every night, so here’s some quick tips and easily accessible products to keep your skin dewy and glowing.
Before proceeding to the article, it is crucial to know what type of skin you have to find a product that works for you! There are specific ingredients in skin products that may be the savior or death to your skin. Here’s a simple chart that may indicate what skin type you have if you’re unsure.
Simply Beach //
Got your skin type figured out? Here’s a list of ingredients you should look out for depending on your skin to maximize the product’s efficiency!
A General Overview
For the average person: coenzyme Q10 or hyaluronic acid for antioxidant and hydration.
For the acne-prone: salicylic acid gently exfoliates and removes excess skin or oil.
For the dry: glycerin or essential oils nourish and soften. Stay away from alcoholic toners; they'll dry you out.
For the sensitive: algae or amino acids soothes and detoxifies.
For a combination: lactic acid gently hydrates dry and sensitive skin.
For the oily: bentonite clay or witch hazel controls shine and purifies.
The Two Step
Toner: “The Prep for Your Pores”
What is this?
Toner is applied to your face after cleansing to wipe off excess oil and dirt from the skin. It also serves as a skin primer to better absorb lotion and creams.
Depending on your skin type, some toners are more alcohol based to eliminate extra oil, while others are more water based for more hydration.
How do I apply it?
Either pour directly onto hands and lightly tap it on your face or use a cotton pad and gently wipe the entire face.
Which brands should I buy?
For dry, sensitive skin:
Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner ($18 at Urban Outfitters)
For normal skin:
L'Oréal Paris HydraFresh Toner ($5.37 at Walmart)
For oily, acne-prone skin:
Thayers Witch Hazel Alcohol Free Toner, Rose Petal ($6.99 at Target)
Moisturizer
What is this?
Moisturizer is essentially a lotion or cream used to increase the skin’s hydration and to counter dryness.
Depending on your skin type, you might want a lighter lotion moisturizer to avoid excess oil and breakouts, or a heavier cream for extra hydration.
How do I apply it?
After toner, apply moisturizer to the entire face by gently rubbing in the product with your hands.
Which Brands Should I Buy?
Face Masks = an Extra boost of hydration
Skin still irritated or dry despite nourishing it with some toner and moisturizer? Then try pampering your skin with some face masks! Sometimes, your skin just needs a little bit of extra love and attention, and face masks give you that quick and simple solution.
Personally, these are my favorites because they’re super easy to use and require minimal effort. I usually stick with Korean face masks as they offer so many options that cater to different types of skin needs! Here are some recommendations.
Innisfree
It’s Real Squeeze Mask ($17.99 for a variety pack on Amazon)
For troubled skin:
Tea Tree
For tired skin:
Aloe
For dehydrated skin:
Cucumber
The Face Shop.
COSRX One Step Pimple Clear Kit ($6 at Urban Outfitters)
For a combination of oily and acne-prone skin types
Includes a cleanser, a face mask, and one wipe
COSRX One Step Moisture Up Kit ($6 at Urban Outfitters)
For all skin types
Includes a cleanser, a face mask, and two wipes
Keep your skin happy and hydrated with these easy, simple steps!
Words By Diana Woo