Hey, Mommas! We know your schedules are packed with all sorts of tasks to take care of your kids. Sleepless nights and early wakeup calls to feed, bathe, and clothe the little ones are the norm for you, but we hope we can also encourage you to spend some time for yourself! Caring for yourself is just as important as taking care of your family, and a quick skincare routine is a great way to help you feel rejuvenated and happy.

Apart from lifting your mood, skincare also has protective benefits. Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Irene Gaile Robredo-Vitas says that skincare is important because our skin serves as a barrier against environmental pollutants, microbes, and toxins. The skin also keeps us hydrated and regulates body temperature. Squeezing in a 5-minute skincare routine in your busy schedule will keep your skin healthy and looking as beautiful as ever!

Try out this quick day and night routine recommended by Dr. Gaile.

Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser.

In the morning and evening
Double cleanse when necessary using either a balm emulsion or a micellar cleanser before washing your face. Choose a cleanser that thoroughly cleans but doesn’t strip your skin off of its essential fatty acids. How to know if a cleanser is too harsh? When it leaves your skin feeling tight or dry after washing.

Apply a moisturizer that address any skin issues you might have while at the same time keeping your skin hydrated and well-balanced

In the morning
Use a moisturizer which contains antioxidants that help you combat skin stressors you have to face during the day. Look for ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E or niacinamide.

In the evening
Use a moisturizer that will provide longer lasting nourishment and aid in the recovery and repair of your skin. Use one with Hyaluronic Acid.

Do not neglect SPF!

In the morning
Protect your skin with sunscreen that is broad-spectrum with an SPF of at least 30 and a PA rating of at least ++ (if available), and water-resistant. Reapply as necessary and make sure to choose something you are willing to use regularly and consistently.

In the evening
Use products that repair and rejuvenate your skin and contain ingredients such as retinoids or peptides.

• To cut back on time, try to find products that multitask such as using a moisturizer with SPF for daytime, and a rejuvenating moisturizer at night.
• Organize your skincare products and know where everything is
• Do not neglect other aspects of self-care that will contribute to your overall health in general, such as drinking enough fluids, having a healthy/well-balanced diet, getting some form of exercise, getting enough sleep and reaching out to other mommies and friends or to your physician for advice.
• If you find extra time in your day, try to do some exfoliating or apply sheet masks once a week or once every two weeks.

For major skin concerns, always consult a dermatologist.