GOOD MORNING!
That’s what my skincare routine speaks, to me at least. I have really taken a liking to my morning skincare routine. It’s like coffee, but for your skin! However, I will be the first to admit y’all: I was not good to my skin for a looooong time. I struggled with hormonal acne, my face was an oil slick, and my makeup would never have that “flawless” look. I made the mistake of thinking a few different misconceptions.
1.My face is already oily, I don’t need to add a moisturizer to it.
Wrong.
2. As long as I take my makeup off before bed, that’s enough.
Wrong.
3. A routine would take up too much time in the morning, it’s not for me.
Aaaaaand wrong.
Since changing my perceptions on skincare and routines, I have noticed all those “struggles” I listed above to be gone. Diminished. See ya later! Nada.
Like I have preached before, skincare products are not a “one size fits all”. Just like anything else, you may have a little trial and error on your way to better skin. I highly recommend doing your research, reading reviews, and LOOKING AT THE INGREDIENTS. GIRL FRANS: there are wayyyy too many brands and products out there to not be choosy on what you are putting onto your skin. While on that note, I personally will also look for products that are cruelty free, because again: there are so many products and brands out there-why not choose one that supports the fight against animal cruelty? However, you do you boo!
First and foremost: I am NOT sponsored or affiliated in any way with these brands. These are all products that I genuinely love and use daily. Now that I am off my soap box, let’s talk products. I will note that it is important to do one step before the other (not interchangeable), so keep that in mind when picking out your routine. PSA: If you one product doesn’t exactly meet your specific needs, I recommend looking into the line as a whole. Each company will usually have for example, a cleanser (or moisturizer, etc.) for every skin type.
STEP 1: Cleanse
I use the Boscia Clear Complexion Cleanser. This specific cleanser is meant to combat blemishes and acne while gently exfoliating to cleanse your pores. Boscia as a brand, works hard to ensure that all of their products are safe for even those with sensitive skin to use. If acne isn’t your main concern, they have a multitude of other products that may fit your needs.
STEP 2: Toner
I absolutely LOVE my Farmacy Deep Sweep 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner with Moringa + Papaya. This toner has Salicylic Acid which exfoliates and draws out excess oil. My favorite part about this toner is that it refines the look of skin texture. My skin has NEVER been smoother since this toner! In addition, it also has a Moringa Seed Extract that helps to remove impurities caused by pollution. I use this toner + a cotton pad and rub in gentle circles around my face and neck.
STEP 3: Serum
I have been using this Age Renewal Super Serum for around a year now. A serum is important because they have active (and potent) ingredients that infiltrate deeper into your skin, in comparison to other types of skincare products. They can have many different purposes, but this particular serum’s purpose is to fight aging. Specifically: Fine lines, tone, texture, elasticity, dehydration and radiance. Additionally, make sure that you allow a few extra seconds for your serum to set in before applying moisturizer (this is when I will brush my teeth or make the bed). Don’t forget to apply to your neck!
STEP 4: Moisturizer
Ahhhh the moisturizer. I fought moisturizing for so long because my skin was already so oily, so why would I want to add more? The information that I was failing to acknowledge was that part of the reason my skin was overproducing oil so much, was because I was stripping it too much of its natural oils. This sent my skin into overdrive mode. It was producing more and more natural oils to keep up with me removing it all the time.
I tried out several products before falling in love with one moisturizer. The Dew Your Thing, Oil-Free Gel Cream from Tula has honestly been life saving for me. It’s so lightweight and non-greasy, truly a match made in heaven for my skin. It also wears so well under my makeup. A complete win in my book! (PSA: make sure to bring the moisturizer down your neck as well).
STEP 5: Eye Cream
My last step, but also my most favorite. The skin around our eyes is so delicate, so it’s important to show it a little extra care. When applying, dab very gently with your ring finger (its “supposed” to have the lightest touch) until blended in. I have been recently turned on to this OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright Eye Crème. It’s meant to brighten, while also targeting signs of aging. This eye cream is rich with vitamin-c (excellent for your skin!) and boosted with collagen. In addition to improving and preventing those crow’s feet, it is also fantastic for improving concealer application and wear.
And there you have it! This routine takes me around 5-7 minutes in the morning and is absolutely worth every second and dime spent. Please, please, please remember that I am definitely nothing close to a dermatologist or professional. This is all information I have gathered between researching and personal experience. Please talk to your dermatologist to see what works best for you!
XOXO,
