There are lots of great products and regimens on the market that promise perfect skin. But too many of them take a one-size-fits-all approach to problems. You’re unique—with your own specific skin challenges and lifestyle expectations. My mission is a little different. It’s my goal is to help people look and feel their best no matter what’s going on in their lives. The basic premise is the same for everyone—cleanse, exfoliate, moisture and protect—but what you focus on and how you get there requires an individualized approach. Here are my sample plans for three different people. Chances are, you’ll find yourself in one of them:
Working mom: Your focus is on time—and how little of it you have to devote to yourself! Since you still has to follow the four basic steps, a busy mom would benefit from products that multitask as much as you do. Aveeno Positively Ageless Daily Exfoliating Cleanser is a soap-free, non-drying way to wash off away the day’s dirt and makeup, plus fine microbeads gently exfoliate away the dead skin cells that can leave the face looking dull and tired. And every morning—no matter how pressed for time you are—reach for a double-duty lotion that both moisturizes and contains at least an SPF 25, like Eucerin Sensitive Skin Facial Skin Lotion SPF 30.
Outdoorsy type: Whether male or female, someone who spends a lot of time enjoying outdoor activities needs products that guarantee protection from the elements, plus ones that help repair any damage already done. Opt for a gentle cleanser morning and night, like Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. In the morning, follow that up with a potent sunscreen that also contains antioxidants (like vitamins C and E, green tea extract and pomegranate). The SPF will help block out harmful rays, and the antioxidants will give the skin an extra layer of protection to fend off damaging free radicals (they break down collagen, which speeds up aging) created by sun exposure. Try Coppertone Sport Lotion SPF 100—it’s made to stand up to sweating and extreme conditions, plus it packs extra antioxidants.
Business Guy-on-the-go: Nonstop travel can take its toll on your skin, so a busy executive needs to concentrate on skincare that rejuvenates. Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Cleansing pads clean and exfoliate, plus they contain soy, which helps even out skin tone to make your face look fresher. The fact that you can stash some in your carry-on is just a bonus! Airplane air is dry, so to prevent skin from dehydrating (which can make it look older and tired) it will need a hearty dose of moisture. A rich cream, like Neutrogena Ageless Essentials Continuous Hydration Night, contains glycerin to help skin trap and hold onto moisture—slather it on before bed, but don’t be afraid to use it during the day too!