Glowing skin is always in.

We’ve all been there: You wake up in the morning and staring back at you is a patch of pimples that seemed to develop overnight. (Seriously where do they all come from? And how do they multiply so fast?!) They can often arrive at the worst possible time: the day of prom, your first interview, or right before a big date. Sometimes it can feel as if you have no control over your skin but these tips may help you maintain a blemish-free complexion.

1. Learn More About Your Skin Type

The first thing you should do before creating your skincare regime is find out your skin type. Not all skin is created equal and one of the keys to a successful regimen is to tailor it for your personal variations. Generally, there are three types of skin: oily, dry and combination. Below is a short summary of each to help you figure out which category you belong to.

♦ Dry skin: not as prone to breakouts but does come with a feeling of tightness and a flakey complexion.

♦ Oily skin: categorized by a large number of blackheads, pimples and an oily/shiny skin surface.

♦ Combination: can be dry in areas and oily in others. This skin type often requires different products for separate areas of the face.

2. Invest in Face Masks

Not only are face masks a calming and luxurious addition to a stressful day but they also have loads of benefits for your skin! Below are some of our favorite masks:

3. Wash Your Pillow Cases Often

We’re all guilty of using the same pillow cases for longer than we would like to admit, but try and break the habit by setting a reminder on your phone to switch out the cases once a week.

4. Keep Your Routine

This means not skipping out on washing your face even after a night out when you’re…erm less than inclined to get out of bed.

5. Drink Plenty of Water

This keeps your skin hydrated and plump. Trust me, having to get up every 10 minutes to pee is worth it to make your skin glow.

6. Use Toner

There is a lot of science behind toner but it all boils down to your skin’s pH level. The optimal level for a skin’s pH is 5.5, allowing the skin to resist harmful bacteria. Some cleansers alter a skin’s pH level and toner brings it back into its normal range. It is a great addition to any skin care routine especially for people with oily skin.

7. Desperate Times Call for Desperate Measures

Even with a great skincare routine there will be times when a stubborn pimple will still pop up – and usually at the absolute worst of times. Below are some products to help you tackle the blemish head on and get rid of it as soon as possible.

Starting from the top left, we have Mario Badescu’s Drying Lotion which is exactly what it sounds like; it dries out your pimple and makes it disappear overnight. It is a great investment and you will be surprised at how much better your blemish will look when you wake up.

Next you’ll see the Blackhead Remover Tool Set. Many people have the urge to pick at pimples but doing so can allow bacteria from your fingers into the already irritated blemish. Enter the blackhead remover tool which ensures a bacteria-free pop!

At the bottom left, you’ll notice an acne master patch. This is a great product that can also be used during the daytime. The patch is see-through so chances are no one will even notice you are wearing it!

Lastly, for those of you willing to spend a little extra on skincare, try this clarifying spot solution. Tata Harper uses natural and high-quality ingredients that will no doubt benefit your complexion.

 

Andy Karp is a junior at George Washington University and a contributor at GlamSalad.com. From a young age, she has had a passion for creative writing, fashion and journalism. Catch her on Instagram, @foundingfoodies and Wishi, as an online stylist.

Cover photo featuring wardrobe by Opening Ceremony, shot by Adelle Goldenberg for The Glam Salad ©