- 1). Do your research. Avoid spending a lot of money by asking friends and family what products work for them. This is particularly helpful if the person has similar skin or skin concerns as you. Also check with the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) to learn about cosmetic complaints, misleading label laws and recalled skin care products.
- 2). Use the right products for your skin type. If you have blemishes or acne, choose products with acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid, sulfur or benzoyl peroxide. Combat aging skin with known anti-aging compounds containing alpha hydroxy or salicylic acids, peptides or kinetin. All of these products are available over-the-counter, but if your skin doesn't respond, you may benefit from prescription-strength products recommended by a dermatologist.
- 3). Make moisturizing a part of your skin care routine, regardless of your skin type. People with acne or oily skin should use a water-based moisturizer. Individuals with dry skin should use thicker creams or emollients to protect the skin and lock in natural oils. To avoid using both a sunscreen and a moisturizer, opt for a moisurizer with SPF protection. Make sure you're protecting your skin from the sun every day.
- 4). Keep using a product as recommended by the manufacturer. The best skin care products in the world won't do much if you don't give them time to work. Most skin care products require 30-60 days of use before the effects are noticeable. Be wary of skin care products that claim overnight results.
- 5). Avoid mixing skin care lines or using multiple products for the same skin concern until you know what works. Mixing product lines or using several different creams for the same purpose is expensive and it won't show you which product is working. Also, a great skin care product may not mix well with other ingredients.
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