Skin care is one of my top priorities. Skin is the canvas for every bit of makeup you’ll ever apply–so having a great foundation is ideal. Of course, no skin is perfect and I struggle with my fair share of skin issues (skin imperfections, visible pores, and a moderately oily t-zone, which leads to black heads). Although perfect skin may be unobtainable, I have learned how to best care for my skin with the following products as well as some of my favorite skin care tips and tricks.
Cleansing…
I recommend washing your face at least daily with a gentle cleanser. Always remove any makeup before bed. The best time to intensively wash your face is at the end of the day to help get any pollution and dirt off of skin.
- Foreo Luna 2 for Combination Skin :
- I like this tool because it is gentle and doesn’t collect dirt or get messy if I use it to take residual makeup off.
- Battery life is incredibly long…I’ve owned this device since April 2016 and have yet to need to charge it. It’s also very portable for traveling.
- Tip: This product is silicone based so avoid using oil-based cleansers to prevent the silicone from breaking down.
- Available here . ($199)
- Destiny Boutique’s Charcoal Facial Detox facial Cleanser:
- Charcoal cleansers are very popular right now because charcoal can help draw dirt out of pores. This cleanser (that I found at Marshall’s) is gentle and leaves my skin feeling fresh and clean. It helps break through tough makeup as well…though my waterproof mascaras and liners need a little extra attention to fully remove.
- This indie beauty product is available at Destiny Boutique online. ($15) Or, if you want to give your local Marshall’s store a shot, see if you can find it there.
Exfoliating…
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, leaving a brighter, smoother, healthier complexion. Exfoliate 1-3 times per week depending on your skin type. Dry, sensitive skin should exfoliate less frequently as it could irritate skin and lead to increased oil production. Combination to oily skin can exfoliate more frequently as long as their skin shows no signs of irritation such as redness and swelling.
- Clarisonic Mia 2 with Deep Pore Cleansing Brush Head
- This was my first high-tech skin tool and I still swear by it. It deeply cleanses my pores and has helped keep my skin feeling great.
- The downside to Clarisonic…
- The brush heads are expensive (twin packs are $44) and brushes need changing every three months.
- Battery life is short. I frequently reach for my Clarisonic only to find that the battery is dead. Charging takes some time and the battery only lasts around 48 hours.
- The device can become mildewed and needs to be cleaned frequently.
- It’s expensive!
- Stila Glowing Reviews Gentle Skin Renewal Scrub
- This creamy exfoliant has a gentle, small “grit” to it that helps polish the skin of dry dead cells. It’s very gentle and can be used frequently without making skin raw. I can’t find it available on long which leads me to think its been discontinued. Huge let down. If I find any similar exfoliants to this one, I’ll be sure to update this post.
Toning…
Toning skin is usually done after cleansing and exfoliating to help restore skin pH and reduce the amount of oil that might be produced after washing the skin. (Washing skin removes natural oils which causes the skin to then increase oil production.) Toner can help prevent that from happening, but make sure your toner does not have alcohol in it. Many toners include alcohol which further dries out skin. No good!
- Thayer’s Alcohol Free Toner in Original Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera
- This formula is soothing to skin and contains no alcohol. It helps balance skin pH and prevent overproduction of oil after cleansing.
Moisturizing…
Skin desperately needs moisture to look it’s best and prevent premature aging/wrinkles. Properly moisturized skin also tends to produce less oil. These are some of my favorite post-cleanse moisturizers.
- Fresh Rose Face Mask (hydrates and tones)
- I love leaving this mask on while I’m lounging, cleaning, or reading. It’s super hydrating and makes my skin feel amazing. The rose scent is so relaxing and soothing.
- Rose Water Hydrating Mist by Pearlessence
- Facial mists are so refreshing. This mist is a great value and smells amazing.
- Organic Rosehip Oil with Vitamin E by Aura Cacia
- Rosehip oil and vitamin E have natural anti-aging properties. This deep conditioning moisture helps promote youthful looking skin.
- Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Moisturizer
- Smells like orange cream pops, a little goes a long way, doesn’t leave my skin feeling oily and helps hydrate all day.
- Get it at Sephora
- Origins High-Potency Night-a-Mins Mineral-enriched oil free renewal cream
- Thicker night cream, wake up with hydrated, not oily skin.
- Get it at Sephora
Anti Aging Retinol…
- Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Night Serum
- Contains ‘pure & potent micro encapsulated retinol 1.5% and Vitamins C & E for all skin types)
- This formula applies like silk, never leaves my skin irritated and helps moisturizer as well as prevent fine lines and wrinkles. I LOVE this formula it is the best retinol product I have ever tried. So gentle.
- Find it at Sephora
Skin care is one of the most important parts of my beauty routine. I hope you enjoyed learning about some of my favorite products of all time. Let me know what you think and if there are any other products you would like to know more about.
Love,
Elizabeth