Hi, everyone! Trina Renea here, your esthetician and skincare guide. I’m thrilled to share the highlights from our latest episode of Facially Conscious, 5 Tips to Make the Most of Your Skincare Routine. In it, I sat down with my fabulous co-host, Rebecca James Gadbury, a licensed esthetician and cosmetic scientist. We dove deep into skincare, sharing tips and answering some of your burning questions. This blog is your go-to recap of that enlightening (and entertaining) episode!
Skincare Myth-Busting: How Often Should You Wash Your Face?
Let’s kick things off with one of the most debated questions in skincare: how often should you wash your face?
Rebecca and I shared our journeys to find the answer. I confessed that, early on, I followed the twice-a-day cleansing rule because…. well, marketing made it sound like gospel. But over time, I noticed people who washed less seemed to age differently—less dryness, fewer fine lines. That made me rethink the "wash all the time" mentality.
On the other hand, Rebecca has taken a minimalist approach—washing her face with cleanser only twice a week! She splashes with water in the morning, focusing on removing eye makeup at night if necessary. While this might sound shocking, her skin proves that less can sometimes be more.
The key takeaway? Listen to your skin. If it’s dry or irritated, try reducing your cleansing routine. Use gentle products, and always prioritize washing at night to remove makeup and environmental grime.
We spoke to Dr. Hitchcock in the episode, Rebooting the Biome with authors, Dr. Doris Day M.D. and Thomas M. Hitchcock, Ph.D who confirmed our theories to be true. Less is more. How are we supposed to unlearn this after years of overwashing? Listen to this exciting episode.
Also, I have only been washing my face once a week since, and my skin is excellent. Mind you, I don't have acne or wear face makeup. In this case, you should wash more frequently.
How Much Product Should You Use?
Next up, the million-dollar question: How much product is enough?
As an esthetician, I always advocate for quality over quantity. If your moisturizer or serum is packed with effective ingredients, you don’t need to slather it on. A thin layer is usually sufficient—except for sunscreen. You should follow the FDA’s two-finger rule (check out our episode, Bonus: Deep Dive Into Sunscreens).
With her background in cosmetic chemistry, Rebecca emphasized the importance of following product directions. Many products are formulated to work at specific quantities, so if the label says “three pumps,” trust the science and use precisely that amount. It's all about ensuring you get the benefits of the active ingredients.
Layering Skincare: Avoiding the Dreaded "Pill"
Have you ever applied your skincare only to have it roll off your skin in tiny balls? That’s what we call “pilling,” it’s a frustrating issue for many.
The culprit? Often, it’s the gums used to thicken products like serums. Layering too quickly or combining products with high gum content can create a perfect storm for pilling. Rebecca suggested letting each layer fully absorb before applying the next. And if a product consistently pills, it might not be the right fit for your routine.
Targeted Application: Not Every Product Is for All Over
Another important topic we covered was where to apply your products. While most moisturizers and anti-aging serums are safe for your entire face, you should be more cautious with potent actives like retinol or AHAs. Also, avoid the delicate skin around your eyes unless you use an ophthalmology-tested eye cream.
Spot treatment is your best friend for specific skin concerns, such as acne, rosacea, or hyperpigmentation. Blanket coverage of strong products can irritate, so focus only on problem areas for the best results.
When in Doubt, Follow the Directions
One recurring theme in our conversation was the importance of reading and following product instructions. From the frequency of application to the quantity, these guidelines exist to maximize the efficacy of your skincare. Remember, not all products are created equal, so stick to reputable brands with transparent practices.
A Final Note on Makeup Wipes
Oh, the great makeup wipe debate! Rebecca and I have differing opinions here. While I worry about the residue they leave behind, she finds them useful as a first step before rinsing her face. If you’re a fan of wipes, consider rinsing with water afterward to ensure your skin is squeaky clean.
Wrapping It Up: Real-World Skincare
This episode was full of “aha!” moments, even for us as skincare pros. From washing less to being mindful about layering, our shared advice reflects years of experience and trial and error.
Ultimately, skin care is personal. What works for one person might not work for another, and that’s okay. My advice? Stay curious, experiment thoughtfully, and, above all, enjoy the process of caring for your skin. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about feeling confident and comfortable in your skin.
Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to check out more tips and episodes on our website at FaciallyConscious.com. Do you have a question or topic you’d like us to cover? Drop us a line at info@faciallyconscious.com. Until next time, stay radiant!
-Trina Renea
