This post has been a longtime coming because honestly I never thought that my skin was “good enough” to talk about skincare? But ya know what – F, IT! We all have skin imperfections and we all have things we are insecure about but for the past couple years skincare has become a huge focus of mine. Giving back to my skin for 10 minutes every night (and morning) has been such a great way to give back to myself both mentally and physcially. It’s a time where I sit quitely and focus on myself and also sort of tell my body that it’s time to settle down for bed. I never really struggled with acne growing up but when I moved to New York, was stressed out, not eating well and commuting/sweating everyday with a full face of makeup – my skin freaked out! I had huge blemishes that I would just layer on makeup to try and cover up. When I turned 25, I made a promise to myself that I would start taking care of my skin and now that I am about to trun 27 (?!?) I truly feel like I have upheld that promise to myself and I am proud! Of course I change up my routine from time to time and am always trying out new products so I can review but my core products have generally stayed the same.
My first tip through first and foremost – I stopped wearing so much makeup. During the week I very rarely wear makeup and when I do wear it, I try to stear towards something lighter like a BB cream instead of a full coverage foundation which tends to clog my pores. Also, the second I get home, I immediately take it off so my skin can breath!
The Cleansing
I keep my hair back with this really fluffy headband so I can really get all of my face and also wear my fluffy bathrobe so I can easily access my neck and chest (skincare is face to nipples as they say). It also puts me in my ~spa moment~ so I really can enjoy.
I take my makeup off immediately when I come home with the Neutrogena Makeup Remover Towels – they are amazing and I never use more than one.
For an easy, soothing cleanser, I use the Aveeno Ultra-Calming Cleanser which is just a foaming cleanser – it is great for morning and evening/everyday use.
2-3x a week I wash my face with Acure Brightening Facial Scrub which is an exfoliant. One time my esthetician yelled at me because I told her I was using an exfoliator like 4x a week (which basically strips away good natural oils and breaks your skin) so don’t do that!
I use a Sonic Face Cleanser which provides a deeper clean and also works as a face massager. If there is one trend that is sticking around this year, it is facial massage because it helps with lymphatic drainage and increases circulation in your face.
The Good Stuff
I start with the Kopari Coconut Rose Toner which not only smells delicious but also tightens pores and leaves my skin feeling fresh.
Then I layer on my Oh K! Chok Chok Illuminating Serum which helps hydrate and plump my skin. I put a couple drops in the “meaty” parts of my palms and then gently pat on my face (do not tug!!).
Sometimes, I will add the Paula’s Choice Vitamin C Serum which helps with uneven skin but you need to be careful that you don’t spend a lot of time in the sun after applying!
Once that dries, I apply a Dermalogica Moisturizers – Intense Moisture Balance – I truly love all of their products and while they are a bit pricey, I really think they are worth the splurge.
Then I use my chilled Skin Gym Jade Roller and do a light face massage which helps my skin soak up all of the goodness!
If I am really feeling frisky and need some extra moisturizer, I will add the Glow Recipe Overnight Sleep Mask which is jelly and feels weird but truly an AMAZING product. I see a noticeable difference when I wake up in the morning.
OK, so ya I know this sounds like a lot but I wanted to include everything that I am currently using that has worked wonders for my skin. I really believe in investing a little extra $$ and time in your skin because I want to hold off on the face lift for as long as possible – so putting in the extra effort starting in yours 20s is truly a must!! If you are new to skincare, I would recommend starting with the basic cleanser and moisturizer and then once you start to get in good habits, begin to include serums, masks and tools into your routine!
Let me know if there are any products you want me to try and review! I am happy to be a guinea pig 🙂
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