As people, we have forgotten how to slow down, ask the questions that truly matter, and then stay committed to a solution until it fails. While this may apply to many aspects of your life, today I am talking about your skin.
We are spoiled for choice: products with wonderful packaging, lovely scents, and jaw-dropping results. Everyone is in pursuit of the best, and nobody wants to age.
REALLY?
Have you paused to think, is that really what you want, or is society shaping you to want those things? Silky long hair at 40, tight baby skin at 50, or pole dance like JLo at 60. These perfect images had me thinking about how I wanted to lead my own beauty journey. It became real when I noticed a fine line on my forehead last week. My mind screamed, I am aging!! But I am just 31, and you know how diligent I have been for the last 15 years. Still?
Yes, still! Then (my mother’s) voice in my head said, Sanjana, you know this. You have been aging since the day you were born, but visible aging started at 25. Your 20s are about prevention, 30s about addressing, and 40s about managing.
Your skin journey is personal, but I wish more people knew the basics. Understanding these can help foster kindness toward oneself. As promised for this edition of Rooted Radiance, let’s start with the basics-your skin type. Trust me when I say, we are in this together.
Did you know your skin is the largest organ in your body, both by weight and area. The outer layer you touch is mostly dead cells that eventually shed. You are constantly shedding, leaving behind dead cells. On average, it takes 28 days for a skin cell to fully turn over and shed, hence they say stick to a new skin care routine for at least 4 weeks to see any results.
Largely, all skin falls under 4 main skin types: normal, oily, dry, or combination. Sensitive skin is a common point of discussion among dermatologists, whether it’s a skin type or a condition, as both oily skin and dry skin can be sensitive to ingredients like fragrances.
Genetics play a big role in your skin’s health. Then there’s food, environment, sleep, stress. The beauty industry likes to make you think one little magic potion will transform your skin overnight. But what they won’t tell you is that the secret to beautiful skin is found in taking your time, understanding your skin and learning to be kind to yourself.
The “Wash Test”
- Cleanse: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry.
- Wait: Do not apply any products. Wait 30 minutes to overnight
- Observe: Look closely at your skin in a mirror.
- Normal Skin: Your skin should feel comfortable and smooth, without any noticeable shine or tightness. (You are blessed, just try not to mess with it.)
- Oily Skin: Your face will likely appear shiny all over, and your pores may look enlarged. (Still blessed, this skin type ages slowly)
- Dry Skin: Your skin will feel tight or even a bit flaky and may look dull. (No acne, what-a-shawty!)
Combination Skin: Your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) will be shiny, while your cheeks may feel normal to dry or the complete reverse. (Yeah, life’s a little of everything for us 😉
