Do I Really Need That? Beauty Products, Explained (Part 1: Skincare)


Today I'm sharing part one of a multi-part series covering the efficacy of popular beauty products. This posts focuses on skincare products, many of which are beneficial for skin, but are not absolutely necessary to achieve a clear, radiant complexion. Read on to discover the truth about which beauty products you actually need. Enjoy!

The Product: CLEANSING OIL
The Claim: Supporters of the "double-cleanse" (i.e. cleansing skin with an oil or balm then a gel or mud cleanser), say the secret to getting squeaky clean skin depends on dissolving makeup and natural oils with a nourishing, cleansing oil.
The Verdict: I've found that cleansing oils are basically a much gentler makeup remover used instead of an oil-soaked cotton pad or make up wipe. If you prefer using a pad or wipe, you don't need an oil cleanser, but this is a great makeup removing option for those with dry, sensitive or even acne prone skin. Just be sure to follow up with your normal cleanser to make sure you get it all off.

The Product: CLEANSING BRUSH
The Claim: Cleansing brushes promise clear, soft skin and increased efficacy of your normal face wash. They're recommended for nighttime use, a few times per week.
The Verdict: Not necessary. I have been on the fence about these for awhile, but I think a cleansing brush can provide a super deep clean when they aren't used too often (daily use can lead to broken capillaries, dryness or micro-tears in skin). However, I think using an exfoliating treatment a few times a week is equally if not more effective.

The Product: TONER
The Claim: Cleanse, tone and moisturize are the traditional steps for great skin. However, over the years skincare specialists have turned their backs on alcohol-based toning products that are said to cause tight, dehydrated skin. 
The Verdict: Not necessary, but works! New technology has encouraged more sophisticated acid-based (rather than alcohol-based) toners, but beware if a toner lists alcohol as one of its first three ingredients. Today, a good toner can add a lot to your skincare routine— hydration, exfoliation, ph-balancing and increased product absorption. If you have oily skin, consider trying out an exfoliating toner that includes lactic, glycolic or salicylic acid. For dry skin, a hydrating toner that contains humectants such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin or aloe vera. 

The Product: EYE CREAM
The Claim: Eye creams are one of the biggest ticket beauty items, often retailing for more than moisturizers or cleansers. The logic behind eye creams is that they are specially designed for the thin, puffy and wrinkle-prone skin known as under eye bags. Eye creams come in two main formulas, a roller ball that cools and dispense gel, or a potted gel/cream formula.
The Verdict: I don't think most people under 30 (or even 40) need a separate eye cream in addition to their daily moisturizer. Even then, using a winkle repair serum (which can be used all over the face) is more effective than shelling out major money for an anti-aging product. However, I think every tired 20-something and beyond could do with a cooling, eye serum roller ball to de-puff the under-eye and drain fluid. This is great as roller ball formulas tend to be less expensive (woo!). For a DIY home de-puffer, chill two spoons overnight and place them under your eyes in the morning.

The Product: SPF
The Claim: Using a separate SPF over your makeup is necessary for sun protection.
The Verdict: USE IT! While makeup products such as foundation, tinted moisturizer and BB cream all contain SPF, most people don't use enough product (it takes a teaspoon to cover the face) in order to protect their skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays. Stick with an oil free formula between SPF 15 and 30 for everyday wear, reapply whenever you sweat or come in contact with water.

xoxo,
Ashley
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