Are you using your skin care products correctly? According to a survey by the American Academy of Dermatology, only 10% of Americans know how to care for their skin correctly. I’m here to share some dermatologist tips on effectively using your skin care products.

The best way to use skincare products is to follow these eight tips from dermatologists:

• Wear sunscreen 
• Check your skin every month
• Simplify skincare routine 
• Read the label and follow
• Give your products time to work 
• Boost absorption 
• Choose products that multitask
• ‘Read your skin and adjust

You're in luck if you want to learn more about using your skin care products correctly. You will discover some common mistakes to avoid and some myths to break. So, what are you waiting for? Read on and get ready to glow!

Why Skin Care Products Matter

As a skincare expert, skincare products are not just cosmetic items you apply to look good. They are essential tools that help you protect, nourish, and enhance your skin's natural functions and beauty. Skincare products matter because they may help you prevent or treat various skin problems, such as acne, wrinkles, dryness, irritation, and sun damage. Find 10 tips for protecting your skin from the sun here. They may also help you maintain a healthy and radiant complexion that reflects your inner well-being. Using the right products for your skin type and goals may improve your skin's health and appearance in the long run. Certainly! Here are 8 dermatologist-recommended tips for using skin care products:

Tips: 1- Know Your Skin Type

Knowing your skin type is essential for choosing the right products and routines for your skin. Different skin types have different characteristics, concerns, and needs that require specific care and attention. As an expert on skincare Neutriherbs, I will guide you through the five basic skin types and how to identify them. Learn how to determine your skin type here.

• Normal skin is well-balanced, neither too dry nor too oily. It has a smooth texture, refined pores, and no visible blemishes or redness. Normal skin is easy to care for and does not need unique treatments. However, it still needs regular cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection to maintain its health and appearance.

• Dry skin lacks moisture and oil, which makes it feel tight, rough, and flaky. Dry skin is prone to irritation, sensitivity, and premature aging. It needs gentle cleansing, hydrating, and nourishing products to restore its natural barrier and prevent water loss. Neutriherbs offers a range of products for dry skin, such as those that may moisturize and plump up the skin.

• Oily skin produces excess sebum, which gives it a shiny and greasy look. Oily skin has enlarged pores and is more likely to develop acne, blackheads, and whiteheads. It needs deep cleansing, exfoliating, and mattifying products to remove excess oil, unclog pores, and balance the skin. Neutriherbs has a variety of products for oily skin, such as those that may fight acne and brighten the skin.

• Combination skin has dry and oily areas, usually on the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and the cheeks. Combination skin is tricky to manage; it needs different products for different zones. It needs gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and targeting products that may address the specific needs of each area. Neutriherbs provides a range of products for combination skin, such as the ones that may smooth wrinkles and reduce puffiness.

• Sensitive skin reacts quickly to external factors, such as products, weather, or pollution. It may experience redness, itching, burning, or stinging sensations. Sensitive skin needs mild, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free products that may soothe and protect the skin. Neutriherbs offers products for sensitive skin, such as those that may calm and heal the skin. Find how factors affect your skin health here.

You may do a simple test at home to determine your skin type. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry. Wait for an hour and then observe your skin in a mirror. If your skin feels comfortable and looks smooth, you have normal skin. If your skin feels tight and looks dull, you have dry skin. If your skin looks shiny and feels oily, you have oily skin. You have combination skin if your skin has dry and oily patches. If your skin feels irritated or inflamed, you have sensitive skin.

Tips: 2- Patch Test New Products

Patch testing is a simple and essential procedure that you should do before using any new skincare product. It may help you avoid allergic reactions, irritation, or breakouts that may occur if the product is not compatible with your skin. I will explain how to patch-test a new product and what to look out for.

Find our best selection of Neutriherbs skin care products here.

According to, the steps for patch testing a new skincare product are as follows:

• Apply the product to a small patch of skin where you are unlikely to wash or rub it away accidentally. Good areas may include the inside of your arm, behind your ear, or under your jawline.

• Use the product with a thick application as you usually do. If the cleanser needs to be rinsed off, adhere to the guidelines and let it sit for 5 minutes or as directed.

• Repeat the patch test twice a day for 7 to 10 days. A reaction may not happen immediately, so it is important to continue applying the product for this time.

• Observe your skin for any signs of irritation or allergy. If you notice any symptoms, wash off the product immediately and stop using it. Find more details on patch tests for skin care products here. 

Remember, patch testing is a simple and essential step that may save you a lot of trouble and discomfort in the long run. Always patch-test a new product before using it, and enjoy your healthy and beautiful skin with Neutriherbs.

https://youtu.be/HdD7GMit140 

Tips: 3- Layer Products Correctly

Layering skincare products correctly is essential for achieving optimal results and avoiding irritation or incompatibility. Different products have different textures, ingredients, and functions that must be applied in a specific order and manner. I will share some tips and tricks on how to layer your skincare products like a pro.

The general rule of layering skincare products is to apply the thinnest consistency first and then gradually increase consistency. The last thing you should apply should have the thickest or heaviest consistency. This ensures that the lighter products may penetrate the skin better and the heavier products may seal in the moisture and active ingredients.

Another essential factor to consider when layering skincare products is the pH level of the products. The pH level measures how acidic or alkaline a product is and affects how well the product works on your skin. Ideally, you want to use products with a pH level similar to your skin, which is around 5.5. Using products with a very different pH level may disrupt the skin's natural barrier and cause irritation or sensitivity. Learn more about how to layer your skincare products in the right order here.

Tips: 4-Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

Sunscreen is one of the most essential skincare products you should never skip, no matter what season, weather, or skin type you have. I will share why sunscreen is non-negotiable and how to use it properly.

Sunscreen protects your skin from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, which may cause sunburn, premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. UV rays are present all year round, even on cloudy or rainy days, and may penetrate through glass windows and clothing. Therefore, you must apply sunscreen daily, indoors and outdoors, to shield your skin from sun damage.

To use sunscreen correctly, you need to follow these steps:

• Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, broad-spectrum protection (against UVA and UVB rays), and water resistance. Neutriherbs offers a range of sunscreens for different skin types and preferences.

• Apply sunscreen generously and evenly to all exposed areas of your skin, such as your face, neck, ears, hands, and arms, at least 15 minutes before going outside. You need about a teaspoon of sunscreen for your face and a shot glass for your body.

• Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more often if you sweat, swim, or towel dry your skin. Sunscreen may wear off over time, so you need to reapply it frequently to maintain its protection. Learn the importance of sunscreen here.

• Use sunscreen in combination with other sun protection measures, such as wearing a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding peak sun hours (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Sunscreen is not enough to protect your skin from the sun, so you must use it along with other methods to reduce your exposure.

Sunscreen is non-negotiable because it is the best way to prevent sun damage and keep your skin healthy and youthful. Neutriherbs is a professional skincare brand that uses gentle yet effective plant-based ingredients to bring you safe and non-irritating products. Our core production design concept is "Mildness Plus." Our products are mild, safe, and effective. 

Tips: 5-Consistency Matters

According to my research, you must be consistent with your skincare routine to have healthy and beautiful skin. Consistency is the key to getting the most out of your skincare products and seeing visible results. 

Consistency matters in skincare because it helps your skin to:

• Regulate its oil production and pH level, which may prevent acne, dryness, and irritation.

• Promote its cell turnover and renewal, which may improve its texture, tone, and elasticity.

• Absorb and retain your skincare products' active ingredients and benefits, which may address your specific skin concerns and goals. Find the best ingredients for your skin type here.

• Protect itself from environmental damage, such as sun exposure, pollution, and free radicals, which may cause pigmentation and premature aging.

• Consistent with your skincare routine may maintain your skin's health and appearance and prevent various skin issues from developing or worsening.

Consistency matters in skincare because it is the best way to achieve your skin goals and keep your skin healthy and beautiful. Neutriherbs is a professional skincare brand that uses gentle yet effective plant-based ingredients to bring you safe and non-irritating products. Our core production design concept is "Mildness Plus." Our products are mild, safe, and effective. Visit our website to learn more about our products and how they may benefit your skin.

Tips: 6 -Use Retinoids Wisely

Retinoids are a group of compounds derived from vitamin A that have many benefits for the skin, such as reducing acne, wrinkles, pigmentation, and sun damage. However, retinoids may also cause side effects, such as irritation, peeling, dryness, and sensitivity, mainly if used incorrectly or excessively. I will give you some tips on using retinoids wisely and safely.

Different types and strengths of retinoids are available, from over-the-counter (OTC) products to prescription-only medications. OTC retinoids, such as retinol and retinyl esters, are weaker and less irritating than prescription retinoids, such as retinoic acid and adapalene, but they also take longer to show results. Prescription retinoids are more effective and faster, but they also have more potential for side effects.

The best retinoid for you depends on your skin type and concern. For example, if you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to start with a mild OTC retinoid, such as Neutriherbs Retinol Serum, which contains 0.5% retinol and vitamin E to hydrate and soothe the skin. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, try a stronger prescription retinoid, such as Neutriherbs Pro-Retinol Cream, which contains 0.05% retinoic acid and olive oil to unclog pores and regulate sebum production. Find 6 benefits of retinol for the skin here.

You may also consult your dermatologist to help you choose the best retinoid for your skin.

Be patient and consistent.

Retinoids are not a quick fix. They take time to work and show results. Depending on the type and strength of the retinoid, it may take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months to see noticeable improvements in your skin. During this time, you may experience some initial breakouts, peeling, or redness, which are regular and temporary. These are signs that your skin is adjusting to the retinoid and renewing itself. Learn the beginner’s guide to retinoids & your skin here.

The key to getting the best results from retinoids is patience and consistency. Don't give up or switch products too soon. Please stick to your retinoid routine and use it regularly. You will eventually see the benefits of retinoids, such as smoother, more precise, brighter, and younger-looking skin. Retinoids are a powerful skincare ingredient that may transform your skin but also require careful and proper use.

Tips: 7- Watch for Expiry Dates

Skincare products have expiry dates to indicate the safe and effective usage period. I will tell you why you should watch for the expiry dates of skincare products and how to store them properly.

Skincare products contain active ingredients, preservatives, and fragrances that may degrade, especially when exposed to heat, light, air, or bacteria. When skincare products expire, they may lose their potency, change their texture, color, or smell, or even harm your skin. Find 5 skincare products that expire faster than you think here.

Using expired skincare products may cause various skin problems, such as:

• Irritation, inflammation, or allergic reactions due to the breakdown of preservatives or the growth of bacteria, fungi, or mold.

• Dryness, peeling, or flaking due to moisture loss or emollients.

• Breakouts, clogged pores, or infections due to the accumulation of dirt, oil, or impurities.

• Reduced effectiveness, diminished results, or wasted money due to the decreased activity or stability of the active ingredients.

Therefore, you should always check the expiry dates of your skincare products and discard them when they are past their prime.

Tips: 8-Be Gentle with Exfoliation

As a skincare expert, exfoliation is crucial to achieve smooth and radiant skin. However, it would help if you were gentle with exfoliation, as too much or too harsh may damage your skin and cause irritation, inflammation, or breakouts. Here are some tips on how to be gentle with exfoliation:

• Choose the right exfoliator that suits your skin type and concerns. Neutriherbs offers natural and effective exfoliating products like scrubs, peels, and masks with ingredients such as AHA, BHA, PHA, and vitamin C. Avoid harsh substances like alcohol, sulfates, or artificial fragrances.

• Follow instructions on the product label or packaging to exfoliate safely and effectively. Use a small amount of product and adjust the frequency according to your skin type. Monitor your skin's reaction and progress. Consult a dermatologist for guidance if needed.

• Apply the exfoliator gently in circular motions to your skin, avoiding sensitive areas. Use light pressure, rinse with lukewarm water, and pat dry with a soft towel.

By being gentle with exfoliation, you may remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture and tone without harming your skin or causing adverse reactions. You may also enhance the effectiveness of other skincare products and achieve your skin goals. If you have any questions or need more advice, please ask me. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, applying these eight tips may help you use skincare products more effectively and safely. By choosing, layering, and storing your products correctly and being gentle, consistent, and mindful of expiry dates and sun protection, you may achieve your skin goals and keep your skin healthy and beautiful.