In the 21st Century our skin takes a battering more than at any other time in history - we eat buckets of processed food, breathe in tonnes of pollution, smoke and drink, sunbake, and use skin and body care products made from toxic chemicals - for most people living in metropolitan areas, our lifestyle doesn't equate to automatic good health, so it is a testament to the skin's amazing ability to cope with adverse conditions that it survives without more serious damage.
To combat the toxins we expose it to every day, assist in its natural functioning, and maintain it in good condition, it is important to stick to a good skin care routine.
FACE IT DAILY
1. Cleanse - Morning and Night
Cleansing twice a day is necessary to remove grime, excess oil, or makeup. Don't use soap, unless the label specifically says that it is for the face. Body soaps are generally too harsh for the delicate facial skin, and will strip it of its natural oils, causing reactions including dryness and blemishes.
Most cleansers need to be rinsed off the face with water - always read the directions.
2. Tone - Morning and Night, throughout the day if required.
Many people have yet to discover the amazing function of toners. They can help dry skin stay moisturised, or help oily skin stay balanced. Toners also prepare the skin for moisturising.
After cleansing there is no need to dry the skin out with a towel - let it stay moist - this helps the toner penetrate deeper. Similarly, don't rinse or dry the face after using the toner - the moisturiser in the next step will do its job a lot better when applied to moist skin, and you won't contaminate it with possible bacteria from the towel.
Toners are especially helpful for blemished skin, as they will remove any dirt that was missed by the cleanser, balance the oil production, and help to soothe and heal.
For dry skin, toners are a must, as they can deeply hydrate, and assist to lock in moisture.
Toners can also be used while travelling, or if you spend long periods in air-conditioned or harsh environments.
3. Treat - as required
Various serums/creams/oils designed for specific skin concerns such as anti-aging protection, skin dehydration or scars, puffy eyes, inflammation or blemishes should normally be applied before your moisturiser. Always read the directions.
4. Moisturise - Morning & Night
Moisturising protects the skin from the exterior environment - wind, sun, cold, or dry conditions will age the skin more quickly if it is not protected in some way.
For dry skin, intensive moisturisers are required to keep it supple and elastic. For oilier skin, only a light moisturiser is needed, otherwise the pores can become clogged.
Always rinse hands before applying anything to your face. Do not rub the skin vigorously - instead very gently pat the cream (or oil) onto your face with your fingertips, then gently wipe it across your skin to ensure even absorbtion.
Less moisturiser is required when sleeping - the skin will be busy repairing itself, and enjoys a chance to breathe freely, so there's no need to apply much cream to the face at night, unless you have very dry skin, or are performing a special treatment.
WEEKLY OR FORTNIGHTLY
Exfoliate
To assist the skin in its natural cycle of removing dead skin cells, an exfoliant or 'facial scrub' should be used regularly - once or twice a week is sufficient, although some are appropriate for every day (always read the directions). Don't use a body scrub on your face, as it will be much too harsh on the delicate facial skin.
After cleansing, very gently massage the exfoliant all over your face for at least 10 seconds (some recommend more than a minute), but do not apply any extra pressure on your skin - then rinse and continue your usual daily routine.
Facial Mask Treatment
A facial mask will remove more toxins and impurities from your pores than a cleanser or exfoliant, and is an important step in regular skin maintenance - a mask treatment should be performed at least once a fortnight to achieve a refreshed complexion, or up to twice a week if you have the time or inclination.
Some masks are wet, like mud, and need no preparation except for a clean face. Many natural clay masks however, come in their raw, dry form, and need to be mixed before application. If you have pure spring water, or a floral water available, use this to prepare the mask in a small bowl or lid (otherwise filtered or tap water is fine). A facial brush is helpful, as using your fingers to apply a liquid-like substance to your face can get a little messy.
As with all products at Pukka, only a small amount is required - a handful of thick goo is excessive - only a very light layer over your face is necessary, so stick to the directions on the label (usually 1-2 teaspoons of powder to 1-2 teaspoons of liquid).
Gently remove the mask with warm water, and follow with your toner and moisturiser.
BODY
As the skin on the body is often less delicate than the facial skin, it does not require as strict a routine - but it should not be forgotten either!
A gentle natural soap or liquid wash should be used daily - avoid harsh chemical soaps or washes as they tend to dry out the skin, and can cause unwanted reactions (such as oiliness, dryness, or increased sensitivity).
A body scrub should be used occasionally to exfoliate and assist the skin's natural removal of dead skin cells, revealing a softer, smoother texture. For dry hands and feet, regular exfoliation will greatly improve the skin's condition. A body scrub is preferable to using a loofah, as body scrub products contain essential oils that will cleanse and moisturise the skin, in addition to exfoliating it.
In today's busy world, many don't have the time for daily full-body moisturising, but whenever you can spare a few extra minutes in the bathroom, it is recommended to apply a body lotion, butter, mist or oil to improve the skin's texture, protect it from premature ageing, and keep it supple and adequately moisturised. After shaving, waxing or exfoliating it is especially important to care for your skin.
Mists - a quick and easy way of applying moisture to the skin. Great to use during Summer, when your exposure to the sun may be increased, and your skin requires frequent hydration. Can be used in addition to lotions, butters or oils for extra nourishment.
Body Oils - the most intensive product to moisturise the skin. Oils are absorbed quickly and more deeply into the skin than lotions or butters, and provide more thorough hydration.
