baby Steps

I cannot explain why baby steps work for my whole life, but they do. Look, homie, at the end of the day, you can only change so much at once. Slow down, and when in doubt, take baby steps.

What is Your “Why?”

Switching up your skincare routine is a personal choice and an investment in yourself. Take a moment to reflect on your “why” behind these changes. Are you dissatisfied with your current routine? Does it address all your skincare concerns? New season or lifestyle change, so you’re simplifying your daily products or starting a skincare routine for the first time. Whatever your reasons, be clear on your personal “why.” Remember, this decision is for you. This clarity will guide your product choices and help you stay consistent.

Trial & Error

It’s tempting to rush in and start using everything, but patience is vital. Instead of diving in headfirst, begin with a patch test. This allows you to explore the product’s texture, aroma, and, most importantly, how your skin reacts. I strongly recommend a patch test for any new addition to your routine, especially if you have sensitive skin. Apply the product in a dime-sized area, typically under your jawline or behind your ear. Follow the product instructions and wait 24 hours to see how your skin responds. Do this separately for each product to keep your testing organized.

Detoxing

Starting a new routine can lead to what’s known as purging, a period where your skin sheds dead cells more rapidly. This process can manifest as dryness and flaking or excess oil and breakouts. The duration of the purging period varies. It typically lasts 6-8 weeks but can be shorter or longer depending on various factors.

Some ingredients in standard skincare products can hinder your skin’s natural functions. Switching to products that support your skin’s functions is a positive change. Your skin has essential functions like protection, sensation, heat regulation, excretion (sweating), secretion (sebum production), and absorption of water and oxygen for health.

Timing Matters

The typical purging period in skincare spans about 6-8 weeks, but it’s important to note that exceptions can occur, and one significant influencer of this process is our hormonal cycles. In individuals who menstruate, these hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact how our skin behaves. Estrogen, for instance, is elevated during the first half of the menstrual cycle and contributes to positive effects on the skin, such as stimulating new cell growth, collagen production, elastin formation, and internal hyaluronic acid production, all promoting a healthy complexion. However, progesterone levels rise by mid-cycle and can stimulate the skin’s sebum (oil) production, potentially leading to clogged pores and breakouts. During menstruation, testosterone takes the lead and can trigger sebaceous glands to produce even more oil, resulting in increased oiliness and possible acne flare-ups.

To minimize the risk of experiencing a purging phase during significant life events like family weddings, holidays, or birthdays, it’s best to initiate your new routine toward the end of your natural hormonal cycle. This strategic approach acknowledges the intricate relationship between hormones and skin. It aims to provide a smoother transition into a new skincare regimen while reducing potential impacts on self-esteem and overall skin health.

Consistency and Patience Are Key

Finally, be prepared for the long game. Consistency and patience are vital for any routine to yield results. Your skin is an organ, and change takes time. Just like clean eating or working out, skincare routines require dedication. No instant fixes exist, but commitment, compassion, and consistency will get you closer to the goal.