6 Skincare Rules a Celebrity Esthetician Swears By

In our never-ending quest for healthy, radiant skin, we’re always eager to boost our knowledge on best skincare practices. What products should we use? How often should we cleanse? Do toners even work? With so many questions and so much to learn, we look to the pros to guide us. That’s why we asked celebrity esthetician Mzia Shiman to spill six of her skin secrets. “In my experience, following these rules and guidelines will always work to improve the appearance of your skin,” she says. Without further ado, Shiman’s top skincare tips:

TIP 1: Use the Right Product for Your Skin Type

Are you less than impressed with your current skincare routine? It could be that you're simply not using the best products for your skin type. “Moisturizers, serums, night creams, etc. should be used based upon your skin type, in consultation with your esthetician or determined by your dermatologist," Shiman explains. Before purchasing anything new, make sure the label states that the product is suited for your specific skin type. The fact is, skincare is not one-size-fits-all. Taking a more personalized approach to your routine is a great way to ensure you'll get the radiant results you're after.

TIP 2: Switch Up Your Moisturizer

Your skincare needs change with the seasons, and the most important product you should rotate is your moisturizer. “Choose a moisturizer according to the season and the condition of your skin," Shiman says. "For example, use a heavier, richer product to get your skin through the dry winter and use a lighter, calming product for spring. Always consult an esthetician before switching your products; this will help you see better results.” Looking to lighten up? Try a soothing, water-gel moisturizer like the Lancôme Hydra Zen Anti-Stress Gel Cream.

TIP 3: Don’t Skip Cleansing and Toning

You can have all the right products at your disposal, but if you're layering them on a dirty face, you won’t reap the benefits. Before going through the steps of your skincare routine, you'll first need a clean canvas. “Cleansers and toners are very important for your skin, regardless of your skin type, age or gender,” Shiman says. “Always make sure you are using them correctly." 

Shiman recommends using a soapy cleanser like the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser. Need pointers on how to properly cleanse? We’ve dished out the details on the optimal way to wash your face here.

TIP 4: Use a Face Mask

For a quick way to elevate your skincare routine, treat yourself to a spa-quality face mask at home. “Everyone should use a hydrating, soothing mask at least once a week," Shiman says. You can opt for sheet masks, clay masks or gel masks, and use them on their own or as part of a multi-masking session in which you target specific skincare concerns by using different masks on separate areas of the face.

TIP 5: Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate (But Not Too Often)

Not only do you want a clean canvas to give your products the best chance of making a difference, but you also need skin that's free of dry, dead skin cell buildup — and exfoliating does both. “Make an effort to exfoliate your skin once or twice a week, especially during warmer seasons — unless you are breaking out,” Shiman recommends. Exfoliation can be done in one of two ways: You can chemically exfoliate with products formulated with skincare acids or enzymes, or you can physically exfoliate with products that gently slough the buildup away.

Check out our full guide to exfoliation here.

TIP 6: Protect Your Skin

The leading cause of premature skin aging is the sun. Those UV rays not only cause fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots to pop up well before expected, but they can also lead to more serious skin damage like sunburns and skin cancer. Estheticians end facials with the application of broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin from these harsh effects, and your skincare routine should end in a similar way. Each and every day — rain or shine — finish your routine by applying a product with SPF, like the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Broad Spectrum SPF 30,  and reapplying as instructed (typically every two hours when you're out in the sun).

Want more? Shiman shares her tips for transitioning your skincare routine between seasons here.

Read More:

6 Face Masks to Revitalize Your Skin This Spring

This Is Why Your Skin Actually Needs Sebum 

5 Shower Mistakes That Affect Your Skin