How to introduce new skincare to your routine

Trying new skincare is equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking. On one hand, it’s fun to try new products, especially right now when the market is booming with new and innovative skincare and we have all the time in the world to try it. However, introducing new skincare to your routine can also result in reactions, breakouts, and more...if you don’t do it properly.

Although we encourage you to listen to your skin and to remove any skincare from your routine that isn’t jiving with your skin -- what many don’t know is a lot of the time we just aren’t introducing new skincare the right way. 

Next time you try a new product, follow these 4 steps:

1. Patch Test! This has been a buzz word in the skincare industry this year and for good reason. Patch testing helps you 1) avoid a serious allergic reaction and 2) know if a product will break you out. Remember, no matter what you’re patch testing for, only apply a small amount to the area.

How to patch test for an allergic reaction: You should patch test in two places: First, somewhere hidden (should a reaction occur), and then somewhere close to the area where the product will be applied once it’s been approved for usage like the side of the neck. 

How to patch test for breakouts: you should apply the product directly to your face on either your cheek or your chin. Apply your new product daily (to the same area) for a week to determine whether your skin will react. Product-related breakouts will typically occur within a week. 

2. Make sure it works with the rest of your routine! Keep in mind that many serums and treatment products contain powerful ingredients that can cause sensitivity to occur if mixed with other powerful ingredients. For example, we do not recommend using the Jojoba + Turmeric Facial Polish and Rose + Glycolic Brightening Mask in the same day because the hydroxy acids in the polish mixed with natural glycolic can be too much for skin. You can use them in the same week though :)

3. Don't rush the transition! 

   

4. Use the product correctly! Once we find a product we love, especially one that is fun to apply, it can be tempting to use it more than directed -- i.e., more than once or twice a day or more pumps than recommended. Too much product can sensitize skin and cause reactions that may not normally occur. Also, make sure you are following directions closely. For example, the Neroli + Lavender Cleansing Balm is applied directly to skin and removed with a wet cloth. Since it is an oil based product, applying it on top of wet skin or trying to remove with water alone will not allow the Balm to do its job and can result in product left behind on skin.