We have all been there. Tired and doing the bare minimum to our face before we hop into bed. Quick wash and a dab of moisturizer; snuggled under the covers in 2 minutes flat. Running late for work...wash with water only and use the lotion I am putting on my hands as I walk out the door as my moisturizer. 

Why are we treating our skin like it will always have that healthy glow no matter how we treat it? Proper skin care helps to keep our healthy and hydrated and keeping your skin healthy is vital to your overall health since it is our largest organ and first line of health defense. Protecting, cleansing and moisturizing are the key components of a healthy skin care routine to maintain your skin's integrity and quality. 

I know using the word routine may make skin care sound high maintenance, but the reality is that these are necessary steps that can implement now that will save you money in the future. I am not saying that you should have a routine that consists of 10 steps like many Korean ladies do or one that has 7, like me. If you want to go there and have the time and the funds, then by all means, treat yo self. I am suggesting that you use a few products twice a day and to be consistent. Your morning routine should focus on protection and prevention for the day and your nightly routine should be aimed at cleansing and repair. Again the basics of your routine should be clean, moisturize and protect. 3 steps is a basic routine. 

Cleanser: Use a product that is intended for your face, not the stuff you use to clean the rest of your body. Wash gently and then rinse with warm water. CarmaBella Skincare has a number of specialty cleansers that will fit into your regimen. My favorite is the Bioactive Cleanser that is loaded with enzymes to help promote smoother skin. 

Toner: Toners help replenish and restore nutrients to your skin. They also prepare your skin and pores to more readily absorb your serums and moisturizer. Three different toners are currently offered by CarmaBella Skincare for use within your routine. I personally use the Rose Toner as it leaves my skin feeling instantly hydrated.

Moisturizer: A moisturizer should be used every time you wash your face. You will probably  use a different moisturizer at night than you do in the morning, since you do not want sunscreens on your face at night. And you will probably want to use a lighter moisturizer in the warmer months and a heavier one when the conditions are cold. Moisturizers are most effective when applied to slightly damp skin to seal in moisture. I use the Brightening Moisturizer during the day followed by a sunscreen, and the more powerful Retinol Moisturizer at night.

Sunscreen: Your daytime moisturizer may have a sunscreen, but it doesn't hurt to double up. UV exposure is the #1 cause of uneven skin tone, signs of aging, wrinkles, and loss of firmness in skin. Let's not forget it also causes skin cancer. 

Exfoliant: Might not need everyday. 2-3 times a week should suffice. Exfoliation helps with the removal of dead skin and product buildup to reveal smoother skin and clearer pores. You can use a chemical or physical exfoliant.

Serum: A serum or facial oil is optional. But you will find that they are a great way to support skin health as they are packed with vitamins and nutrients that can ease some of your skin woes. My routine has 2 different serums. In the morning, I apply the Botanical Brightening Serum and my serum for my nightly ritual is the more potent Retinol Serum. I also use a serum specifically for my eye area to help with puffiness and lines, the Essential Eye Serum, and in the winter I add the Illuminate Facial Oil to help combat dull skin. 

A little while back I posted a graphic on Instagram that showed the proper order your skin products should be applied. I hope it helps you to build yourself the routine that works for you. I am still tweaking mine and I am sure you will be the same way until you find what works for you. But always remember to love the skin you are in.