The Summer CTM Routine

If you thought that C-T-M is a modified form of T-L-C, then you are not wrong. It truly is all the love and care your skin needs, packed in this amazing, wholesome skincare routine called Cleaning, Toning And Moisturizing, aka C-T-M.

This is the first and essential step to having a great complexion. This process has to be done ideally twice a day. However, if you are tight on time in the morning, you can follow through with it at bedtime. Undeniably simple, this basic step in skincare is important during any season. This is especially true during the summer as the heat and grime can create havoc on your skin and rob its radiance.

The benefits of CTM

• It thoroughly cleanses, tones and hydrates skin.
• Dirt, grime and makeup (if any) are gently wiped off along with impurities and pollutants
• It tightens the open pores reducing acne and breakouts.
• The healthy skin pH is maintained.
• It also delays the early onset of ageing and fine lines.

We have cherry-picked some top-drawer products that perform a key function and give you some bragging rights.

C for Cleansing

The first step is cleaning, that is, washing your skin with a good quality cleanser to remove dirt and impurities. Cleansers are the perfect way to remove dead skin cells, pollutants and makeup without disturbing the skin’s texture or pH balance.

Sensitive skin
If you have sensitive skin, be mindful of the ingredients and avoid those that can harm your skin. Therefore, it is best to go for a mild, soap-free product that soothes your skin and does not irritate your skin.

BB Pick: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Dry skin
Many times, we worry that this practice run of cleansing the skin may dehydrate it. That’s why, you need something that will not only clean your face but moisturize it too. Putting all your doubts to rest, we have for you the perfect pick.

BB Pick: Faces Canada Hydro Cleanser

Oily skin
If you have oily skin, you need to be careful of what and how much you use. Some say that too much rubbing and cleansing can aggravate the oily skin condition. While you cleanse in moderation, what you need is an oil-free formula that regulates old secretion and keeps it in check, without irritating and over-drying it.

BB Pick: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Facial Cleanser

T for Toning

Even though you may think this step can be skipped, we suggest that you don’t. At times cleansers, do not remove all the impurities in our skin. That is why you need a follow-through with toners. Besides removing any traces of cleansers or grime toning will also balance the pH level of your skin. This will help it absorb what comes next, which is moisturizer.

Sensitive skin
Sensitive skin is prone to flare-ups during summers, thanks to the relentless heat. What you need is a toner that cools and calms. Pick one that’s infused with Cucumber Extract and you will instantly feel your skin getting perky and fresh.

BB Pick: Biotique Pore Tightening Refreshing Toner

Dry skin

If you have dry skin, an alcohol-free toner is the one for you. That’s because alcohol-free toners and gentler and will not strip your skin of natural oils. It will not only remove traces of dirt and impurities, but will also rejuvenate your skin, and close open pores without drying them out.

BB Pick: Lakme Toner – Absolute Pore Fix

Oily skin

Summers can be worse for those with oily skin. This is why you need a toner to get rid of excess oil but also penetrate deep to balance the skin’s pH levels. To combat oily skin, opt for a toner that contains Witch Hazel that helps reduce sebum, acne and clogged pores.

BB Pick: Mamaearth Rose Water Face Toner With Witch Hazel & Rose Water

M for Moisturizing

Your C-T-M routine is not complete without a good moisturizer. Getting ready for this main event, a moisturizer gives back whatever hydration your skin may have lost in the cleansing process. It boosts the skin, nourishes it and keeps it healthy. Moisturizing also keeps fine lines and wrinkles at bay.

Sensitive skin

If you have sensitive skin, a gentle moisturizer is your best bet. A moisturizer will not only protect and strengthen your skin barrier from external aggressors but will also infuse it with much-needed hydration and glow.

BB Pick: Better Body Bombay Hydrating Daily Moisturizer

Dry skin

If you have dry skin, chances are your skin is not getting enough hydration. Especially with the summer heat zapping your skin’s moisture, your skin is probably thirsting for a good moisturizer. What you need is a moisturizer that boosts hydration and gives it the nourishment it deserves.

BB Pick: Kaya Super Hydrator Dry Skin Moisturizer

Oily skin

It’s a myth that oily skin should not be moisturized. In fact, oily skin needs moisturization to regulate oil production. If you don’t moisturize it, it will produce more oil to hydrate itself. Choose a moisturizer that is enriched with Glycerine as this is lightweight and will also keep your skin moisturized.

BB Pick: Deconstruct NMF Hydrating Moisturizer

Whatever your skin type, C-T-M is for you. Remember, the C-T-M skincare is like an investment for your skin that will reap benefits in years to come. Nurture your skin, nourish it and enjoy the smooth, flawless, blemish-free skin you truly deserve. Start today itself, so years down the line you will still glow with eternal youthfulness.