When it comes to obtaining ultimate skin health, there isn’t just one all-encompassing secret. It takes a holistic approach - AKA adding a few uncomplicated habits to your everyday routine.
Here, five healthy skin rules we love following.
1. Cleanse Thoroughly
While morning cleansing is a matter of opinion, evening cleansing is a non-negotiable. Going to sleep without cleansing your skin of makeup, dirt, debris, and pollution can clog pores, potentially leading to breakouts, redness, dullness, and more.
We’re firm believers in the comprehensive double cleansing method, which consists of taking off your makeup first with a micellar water or an oil-based cleanser, and then following up with a water-based cleanser.
2. Work in Daily Facial Massages
All you need is 60 seconds, your hands, and a gentle facial oil.
And according to celebrity facialist Mzia Shiman, our new Elixir II is the perfect companion.
"The Bastide Elixir II is incredibly nourishing and perfect for sensitive skin," she says. "I’m very reactive to many formulations so it’s comforting to know that I can trust using it on my client’s skin. I love that the formula delivers nutrients to the skins deepest layers while also creating an antioxidant shield on the surface to protect against pollution. I use after cleansing the skin, applying a few drops to palms and then really massaging into skin for additional lymphatic stimulation which helps lift the skin."
3. Shield Your Skin from the Sun
The warm sun shining down on your skin is one of the best feelings in the world, but along with it can some serious damage. UV rays are linked to premature aging and dangerous skin conditions, so it’s always best to limited your time exposed, wear protective clothing (a wide-brimmed hat, perhaps), and of course, apply a generous amount of sunscreen. Try a mineral version, like Biossance Squalane + Mineral SPF 45.
4. Limit Your Stress
Studies have shown that prolonged levels of stress are linked to multiple health and skin conditions, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne, as well as contact dermatitis. Life is unpredictable, so we suggest finding a practice that helps you personally deal with daily stresses. For some, it's exercise. For others, it's daily meditation. We love Headspace for guided meditations, whether we have 30 minutes or three minutes to decompress.
5. Exfoliate Regularly
It's one of the most ignored skincare steps, but it can set you up for a serious boost in radiance. Gently sloughing off dead skin cells helps even out skin tone and put and end to dullness. If you prefer physical exfoliation, reach for our Beauté D'Argile Purifying Clay Mineral Mask, which exfoliates thanks to natural natural alpha-hydroxy acids in our proprietary antioxidant complex.