Skin care tips: Tailor beauty routine according to your skin's morning state, here's why

Your skin’s morning condition is a direct reflection of various internal and external factors, including hydration levels, environmental exposure, skincare products used the previous night, and your skin’s natural oil production.

Waking up to tight, dry skin may indicate a lack of moisture or the impact of cold, dry air, while an oily T-zone suggests overactive sebaceous glands. Balanced skin signals an effective skincare routine. Redness or sensitivity, on the other hand, may point to irritation or a compromised skin barrier. Understanding these morning skin cues is essential in tailoring a skincare routine that meets your specific needs.

Tight, dry skin:

Also read | Skincare's latest obsession: Everything you need to know about growth-factor serums

• Causes: Cold weather and low humidity can strip moisture from the skin, leading to dryness and tightness. Harsh cleansers containing strong lipid solvents, such as acetone and alcohols, can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, causing dryness and tightness.

• Care tips: Use mild, hydrating cleansers free from harsh chemicals to maintain moisture balance. Apply a rich, emollient moisturiser immediately after cleansing to lock in hydration. Using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air, preventing skin dryness, especially in low-humidity environments.

If you have oily skin, use gentle cleansers to remove excess oil without over-drying the skin (Image: Canva)

Oily skin, especially on the T-zone:

• Causes: Overactive sebaceous glands can produce excess sebum, leading to oiliness, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Genetics can also influence sebaceous gland size and activity, contributing to oily skin.

• Care tips: Use gentle cleansers to remove excess oil without over-drying the skin, as harsh cleansing can trigger increased oil production. Choose non-comedogenic skincare and cosmetic products to prevent clogged pores. Even oily skin benefits from hydration, so opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers.

Also read | Beauty treatments: Reduce acne, keep skin glowing, soothe tired eyes with rose water

Balanced skin, not too dry or oily

• Causes: A well-maintained stratum corneum (the outermost skin layer) effectively regulates moisture and protects against environmental factors, leading to balanced skin.

• Care tips: Maintain a consistent skincare routine with gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. Use antioxidant-rich products to protect the skin from environmental stressors and maintain balance.

Sensitive and sometimes red or irritated skin3

• Causes: Damage to the skin’s protective barrier can lead to increased sensitivity, redness, and irritation. Harsh skincare ingredients or over-exfoliation can also trigger irritation in sensitive skin.

• Care tips: Perform a patch test before introducing new products to check for adverse reactions. Use products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to reduce irritation. Identify and avoid known irritants such as fragrances, dyes, and certain preservatives.

Recognising your skin’s morning condition helps tailor a skincare routine that meets its specific needs. For persistent or severe skin concerns, consulting a dermatologist is recommended.

Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.