A facial care routine: why the right order changes everything
A quick splash of water on the face in the morning, a cream on top – done. That is what the facial care routine of many people looks like. And then they wonder why the skin still feels tight, shines or looks unsettled. What most people do not know: it matters less how many products you use than in which order and how consistently. Even a simple three-step routine can deliver astonishing results – if it is the right one.
In Switzerland in particular, the climate presents the skin with special challenges. Dry winter air in mountain regions, strongly heated interiors and UV radiation that is considerably more intense at altitude than in the lowlands. The FOPH therefore recommends sun protection for the face all year round – not only in summer on the ski slope.
The three pillars of all facial care
Before you invest in expensive serums and masks, the basics should be in place. Because without a clean foundation, any special care fizzles out.
- Cleansing: Morning and evening. Particularly thoroughly in the evening, because dirt, sebum and fine particles collect on the skin over the day – even if you wear no make-up.
- Moisture: Every skin type needs moisture. Yes, oily skin too. Drying it out often provokes even more sebum production.
- Sun protection: The WHO identifies UV radiation as the main factor in premature skin ageing (source: who.int). An SPF of at least 30 belongs in every morning routine.
That sounds simple. It is. But putting it into practice fails astonishingly often on consistency.
Morning routine vs evening routine – what and when?
In the morning it is about preparing the skin for the day and protecting it from external influences. In the evening, regeneration is to the fore. The order follows a simple logic: from thin to rich.
Morning: Gentle cleansing → toner → serum (optional) → moisturiser with sun protection. For daily UV protection the Herbalife Skin moisturiser SPF 30 is a good choice, combining moisture and a sun protection factor in one step – particularly practical for Swiss everyday life with its changing altitudes.
Evening: Thorough cleansing (double cleansing with make-up) → toner → night care or a richer cream. The skin regenerates most strongly at night, so richer textures can certainly be used in the evening.
If you are looking for a way into a structured routine, the Herbalife Skin basic product pack offers a matched combination of cleanser, toner and moisturiser – developed with vitamin B3, vitamin C and aloe vera. For everyone who would like to extend their care with an eye cream and further steps, there is the Herbalife Skin Advanced Product Pack as a more comprehensive solution.
What nutrition has to do with your skin
This is where the real problem lies: many people invest hundreds of francs in creams and serums but completely ignore what lands on the plate. Yet healthy skin does not begin in the bathroom – it begins in the kitchen.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition (Purba et al., 2001) showed that a diet rich in vegetables, pulses and olive oil was associated with fewer skin wrinkles. A sugar-rich diet, by contrast, accelerated skin ageing. The result is not surprising, but it is consistently underestimated.
Some nutrients play a particularly important role:
- vitamin C contributes, according to the EFSA, to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the skin.
- Biotin and Zinc contribute, according to the EFSA, to the maintenance of normal skin.
- An adequate Hydration of at least 1.5 litres a day supports skin health (source: SGE).
If you would like to support collagen formation specifically, you can consider the Herbalife Collagen Skin Booster as a supplement. It contains collagen peptides and vitamin C – a practical option alongside a balanced diet.
Seasonal adjustment: what really changes in Switzerland
Have you ever wondered why your skin reacts differently in January than in July? In Switzerland the difference is particularly pronounced. Heated air draws moisture out of the skin, while cold outdoor air strains the natural skin barrier.
In winter most skin needs richer textures and a particular focus on protecting moisture. Light gels are often not enough. In summer UV protection is to the fore, and textures may be lighter so the skin is not overloaded in the warmth.
What many people underestimate: UV protection is relevant in winter too. In the mountains snow reflects up to 80 per cent of UV radiation – more than sand at the beach. Anyone who is regularly out in the mountains should therefore never leave out the sun protection factor.
The most common mistakes in facial care
Too much of a good thing is one of the most widespread mistakes. Anyone who exfoliates daily, constantly tries new products and layers five serums on top of one another risks an irritated skin barrier. Less really is often more.
Another classic mistake: keeping to your facial care routine only when your skin is causing problems. Consistency is the key. Two or three well-matched products, used morning and evening – that achieves more in the long term than sporadic intensive treatments. You will find further information on skin care on Wikipedia too.
Your skin is as individual as your lifestyle. Take the time to find out what works for your skin type, and then stick with it. The best routine is the one you actually use every day. Discover suitable care products on myherbal.ch and start today with a routine that suits you.