What Is The CTM Routine: Steps Involved And Benefits

Introduction

The CTM regimen is a game changer in the field of skincare. Cleansing, toning, and moisturising (CTM) are the foundations of an effective skincare program. This practice, when tailored to individual skin needs, can provide a lasting radiance while also nurturing the skin's health.

What is the CTM routine?

Wondering, ‘What is CTM routine?’ CTM is a foundational skincare practice involving three main steps:

1. Cleansing

The first among the CTM routine steps, cleansing involves the removal of impurities and excess oil. It preps the skin for further treatment by unclogging pores.

2. Toning

Toning helps balance the skin’s pH level, tightens pores, and preps the skin for moisturisation. It often involves the application of toner to gently clean and further remove any impurities that may have been left behind after cleansing.

3. Moisturising

This step provides hydration and nourishment to the skin, effectively sealing in moisture. It's vital for every skin type, aiding in protecting the skin's barrier and preventing moisture loss.

What are some CTM routine benefits?

The CTM (Cleansing, Toning, Moisturising) practice has several advantages that add to the skin's general health and attractiveness. Here are some of the primary CTM routine benefits:

1. Cleansing

Cleansing eliminates dirt, pollutants, makeup residue, and excess oils accumulated on the skin's surface throughout the day, preventing pore blockages and breakouts. A clean canvas ensures better absorption of subsequent skincare products, enhancing their effectiveness.

2. Toning

Toners help restore the skin's natural pH balance, which might get disrupted due to cleansing. Balanced pH levels support the skin's ability to function optimally. Certain toners can tighten and reduce the appearance of pores, giving the skin a smoother appearance and minimising the probability of dirt and debris getting caught in the pores.

3. Moisturising

Moisturisers assist the skin to avoid dryness and promote a supple, healthy look.

Overall benefits

When practised consistently, the CTM routine promotes overall skin health by keeping it clean, balanced, and well-nourished. Regularly cleansing, toning, and moisturising helps prevent issues like acne, dryness, and excessive oiliness, maintaining a clearer complexion. By prepping the skin, the CTM routine allows subsequent skincare products to penetrate the skin more effectively, maximising their benefits.

Our guide to the best CTM skincare routine

Here's a guide on the best CTM skincare routine:

Cleansing with the Clearing & Calming Acne Face Wash

To soothe irritated skin, the Clearing & Calming Acne Face Wash wash combines the strong powers of salicylic acid with the benefits of cica. Salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores, removing oil, dead skin cells, and pollutants and preventing outbreaks. Meanwhile, cica provides anti-inflammatory and healing benefits, reducing redness and promoting skin repair.

Toning

Opt for a toner with witch hazel, tea tree oil, and salicylic acid. They efficiently tone the face, manage excess oil and minimise pores while delivering a soothing and relaxing effect to prevent future outbreaks.

Moisturising with the Waterlight Gel Moisturiser

The Waterlight Gel Moisturiser with niacinamide and wheat germ oil provides a dual-action solution for skin hydration and restoration. Niacinamide, also present in the Super Clarifying Face Serum, serves to control oil production. Wheat germ oil is high in antioxidants and vitamins, which nourish and preserve the skin's natural barrier while also assisting in skin restoration.

How to fit the CTM routine to your skin type?

Each skin type has different needs. Here's how it works:

CTM routine for oily skin

1. Cleanser

The CTM routine for oily skin includes using a cleanser that doesn’t over-dry the face. Choose a cleanser that is gel or foam-based and contains ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil. These active ingredients assist in preventing breakouts while preserving the skin's natural oils. Since they will not clog pores, look for 'oil-free' or 'non-comedogenic products' like the Clearing & Calming Acne Face Wash.

2. Toner

An alcohol-free toner containing witch hazel, salicylic acid, or tea tree oil helps decrease oil production and tighten pores. These toners keep the skin's pH balanced, reducing oiliness and avoiding acne outbreaks.

3. Moisturiser

Choose an oil-free, lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser that moisturises without adding more oil if you have oily skin. Look for water- or gel-based moisturising solutions that will not clog pores. Hyaluronic acid in the Waterlight Gel Moisturiser, for example, will provide moisture without making your face oily.

CTM routine for combination skin

1. Cleanser

A cleanser that balances oiliness without over-drying the face is required for combination skin. Look for a gentle cleanser that is good for all skin types.

2. Toner

Choose a toner that has moisturising elements as a part of your CTM routine for combination skin.

3. Moisturiser

For combination skin, a non-greasy moisturiser is best. Look for a solution that moisturises dry areas while leaving oily parts shinier. Aloe vera, glycerin, and squalane can give balanced moisture.

CTM routine for dry skin

1. Cleanser

CTM routine for dry skin requires a moisturising, creamy cleanser that cleans without taking natural oils from the skin.

2. Toner

Dry skin requires a moisturising, alcohol-free toner.

3. Moisturiser

Choose a hydrating moisturiser with potent ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

How to level up your CTM routine steps: Say hello to CTMP

To level up your CTM routine add the fourth crucial step of applying sunscreen in the end -

Step 1: Cleansing with Clearing & Calming Acne Face Wash

Step 2: Treat with Super Clarifying 12% Niacinamide Serum

Step 3: Moisturising with Waterlight Gel Moisturiser

Step 4: Protecting with Mineral Matte Tinted Sunscreen

Sunscreen protects the skin from UV radiation, which causes accelerated ageing, dark spots, and skin damage.

Conclusion

The CTM regimen is not a one-size-fits-all approach but a tailor-made road to healthier, more radiant skin. Understanding your skin type and choosing appropriate products will allow you to tailor the CTM routine to your skin's unique needs, exposing its inherent brilliance.