1. Type
Do you tend to be dry and flaky, or is your main problem keeping oil at bay? There are five different skin types: normal, dry, oily, sensitive, and combination. Oily faces need gentle, low-pH skin cleansers to help unclog pores, while dry skin prefers specific dry skin facial cleansers that have low alcohol contents and will help lock in moisture.
2. Lifestyle
If you exercise frequently, you might need a gentle facial cleanser designed to keep pores clean post-sweat. If makeup is a daily part of your life, look for a cleanser that has a makeup remover component. If you live in cold, low-humidity climates that cause dry skin, you might want to try a dry skin facial cleanser that will cater to retaining moisture even in the lowest of temperatures.
3. Goals
After taking care of the basics, it's time to consider what you are trying to accomplish. Are you trying to remove blackheads and tighten pores? Rejuvenate or diminish the appearance of dark spots? Figure out what you want and then go get it!
4. Time
It seems as if we get busier and busier each day. Luckily, there are plenty of skin cleansers that can keep up with your fast pace. From quick cleansers such as no-wash cleansing cremes and nutrient packed wipes to slower deep cleaning scrubs, it's easy to customize products to fit within your schedule.
5. Experiment
Once you've taken all these factors into account, it's time to go experiment. Try one product at a time and keep a journal to remind yourself of what you liked and disliked. Remember that skin care is a long-term process and it's important to give yourself plenty of time with each product you try. Your skin is beautiful and it deserves a skin care product just as unique as you!