The most essential skin care products

There are a lot of beauty potions on the market. While the good ones have benefits, you may be wondering what the most essential skin care products are to have.

We’ve boiled it down to nine products – with the help of Huffington Post – to show you, that if you’re stripping back on the amount of things you own, these are the must-haves that you can’t live without.

1. Cleansing oil

The first step to healthy skin is to make sure all your makeup from the day is removed. A cleansing oil is a must even before going in with your face cleanser to ensure all makeup – including waterproof eye makeup – is dissolved. A cleansing oil removes makeup gently and dirt just slides off ensuring you don’t tug at your delicate skin unnecessarily.

Try: Matis Reponse Jeunesse Comfort Cleansing Oil

2. Face Cleanser

Now that all your makeup is removed, now is the time to apply a gentle cleanser. The cleanser will remove any oil residue left behind and any other small traces of makeup. A good cleanser shouldn’t make your skin feel tight or dry after rinsing.

Try: Atlantis Skincare Glowing Skin Cleansing Milk

3. Exfoliator

As we age our skin turnover rate slows down. It’s important to exfoliate 1 – 2 times a week or gently everyday if you have congested skin. This ensures dead skin doesn’t build up on the surface which can lead to dry patchy flakes or even breakouts.

Try: Thalgo Eveil a la Mer Gentle Exfoliator

4. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a MUST. No if, ands or buts. UV protection is essential to healthy skin and will prevent aging and skin discolouration. Do not leave the house without it! Apply after cleansing in the morning and follow with the rest of your skin care routine.

Try: Thalgo Age Defence Sun Lotion

5. Cream

To make sure your skin retains moisture it’s important to moisturize both day and night. Dehydrated skin can end up looking dull and tired. A pea size amount is all you need — dab a little on your forehead, cheeks, chin and neck and massage in gently.

Try: Gatineau Nutriactive Mediation Rich Cream

6. Eye Gel

The delicate skin around your eyes needs moisture too but don’t think about applying your everyday cream to that sensitive area. The eyes require special treatment since the skin around that area is thinner and too heavy of a moisturizer can lead to puffy eyes and other issues. Stick with a lightweight eye gel – apply to the top of the cheek bone under the eyes. Your skin will naturally absorb the correct amount of product.

Try: Mary Cohr Eye Fresh – Eye Cream Gel for Puffiness and Dark Circles

7. Serum

Serums are essential for your skincare routine as most of us have issues we would like to target. Serums provide an added boost to your moisturizer and should be applied after cleansing, before your face cream. Since they are more potent than your face cream, start using serums at night so you will reap the benefits while you sleep.

Try: Payot Elixir Lift – Tightening Regenerating Serum

8. Mask

For an instant boost and to provide skin an extra nourishing treat, try a mask 2 – 3 times a week. Look for one that is hydrating and has extra benefits such as anti-inflammatory ingredients to calm and sooth skin. After applying a good quality mask your skin should feel soft, hydrated and rejuvenated.

Try: Payot Hydra 24+ Baume-En-Masque – Super Hydrating Comforting Mask