Feeling confident about your skin care routine? You are probably missing some integral steps, according to new research.
Japan's number one skin care brand, Hada Labo Tokyo, has revealed only 63 per cent of women use a cleanser regularly, while 77 per cent fail to use moisturiser at all.
At night, a third of British women are skipping their nightly care routine entirely, with many missing crucial steps that protect and maintain healthy skin.
And even more concerning, a whopping 80 per cent of women have ventured out on sunny days without applying sun protection.
Not only are these poor habits opening us up to various skin health issues, but they are also affecting our self-esteem.
Indeed, research revealed 87 per cent of women say their skin's appearance affects their mental wellbeing, highlighting just how much our complexion impacts our confidence and daily lives.
The findings paint a worrying picture of women's relationship with their skin, with nearly half struggling with dryness, 30 per cent worrying about wrinkles, and 29 per cent battling fine lines.
Women rate their facial skin just five out of 10 on average, with nearly a third admitting they have cancelled social plans because they were not confident about their appearance.
The first essential step is cleansing to remove dirt, grease, sweat, and makeup from your skin
| GETTYGP and skin specialist, Dr Nisa Aslam, said: "With so many women concerned about their ageing skin, it would make sense that skin care routines were more of a priority. A consistent, daily routine using the right ingredients can make a world of difference to skin, no matter your age or skin type."
So, with so many of us failing to grasp the basics, what should our daily routine actually look like?
According to the expert, "glowing, radiant, and youthful skin" is only possible with a consistent morning and nighttime routine. Thankfully, this does not have to be expensive, Dr Aslam assured women.
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During the day, SPF protection is essential – whether it's blazing hot or freezing cold
| GETTYCleanser
The first essential step is cleansing to remove dirt, grease, sweat, and makeup from your skin. Honey Ross, an ambassador for Habo Lado Tokyo, recommends products "which contain three types of hyaluronic acid, formulated to cleanse, protect and lock in moisture, leaving skin silky smooth and glowing".
Hydrator
Step two involves applying a hydrator to freshly cleansed skin on your face, neck, and décolletage for that "hit of hydration".
Eye cream
Eye cream comes after, with Dr Nisa Aslam noting that "the skin around the eye is very delicate".
She recommends formulas containing multiple types of hyaluronic acid alongside collagen and retinol in gentle formulations suitable for sensitive skin.
SPF (daytime)
During the day, SPF protection is essential – whether it is blazing hot or freezing cold. GP and women's health specialist, Dr Janine David, recommends investing in products that include "must-have anti-ageing ingredients" like sodium hyaluronate, super hyaluronic acid, and nano hyaluronic acid, alongside sun protection.
Night cream (bedtime)
The final step happens at bedtime, when the skin can absorb intensive overnight treatments.
The experts swear by the New Premium Hada Labo Tokyo Extreme Skin Regenerator 7XHA Night Super-Cream, which contains seven types of hyaluronic acid that work while you sleep to regenerate and restore your complexion.
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