skincare: the importance of step #2

Everyone knows the 3 steps for healthy skin: 1.wash, 2. tone 3. moisurtize. Morning and night. Often times step number #2 is skipped, because many don't realize its importance. Throughout the day our skin builds up dirt, oil, pollution and dead skin cells. If not properly removed before bed it will result in pimples and dull skin. The ultimate goal is clear, bright glowing skin, right? Toning isn't my reasoning for placing so much importance on step #2. It's using the toner on a cotton ball to actually remove the dirt, oil, dead skin cells and makeup. Soap alone does not clean the skin efficiently enough. Over and over, when I worked in skincare I heard the same complaints "I have breakouts", "my skin is dull" or "my skin is dry". All can be solved with the same solution.. Incorporate step # 2 into your daily routine. Breakouts are caused by either clogged pores or  bacteria. Use a toner with either salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These ingredients not only kill acne causing bacteria but they also unclog pores and wipe away dead skin cells.  Try clinique clarifying lotion or Clearasil rapid action pads.





      Dry skin can occur simply by your moisturizer not obsorbing into the skin. The colprut... dead skin cell buildup!! So often, people (espicially stubborn old ladies) wash their face and pile on the moistuizer day after day. Their skin is never quenched with the moisture because it is laying on the top layer of skin. The moisture can't make its way through all the build up to actually penetrate into the epidermis. For dry or sensitive skin a gentle toner will be great. Try Kiehls cucumber toner or Kiehls calendula herbal-extract toner. Pour onto a cotton ball and wipe the entire face. You will be amazed with the filth on the cotton ball every night.



-Shawna