For many years, the concept of a skincare routine baffled me. When I was young, I was extremely oily and acne prone, and as I've gotten older I'm still pretty oily, but I turn combination in the colder months. Fortunately, I've grown to appreciate my oily skin, I realize that it keeps my skin hydrated and may help me age a little more forgivingly. Even if that is the case, I do think it's important to use good skincare. I started dabbling in "anti-aging" products in my early twenties, my thought was that if I was going to freeze my face at any point, thats probably the time to do it. The quality of my skincare was elevated when I met two of my friends who are aestheticians, someone who specializes in taking care of the skin. These two introduced me to most of the products and brands that I continue to use today.
I think it's important to cleanse, moisturize and protect the skin daily, so that's what I do. Most days I use the Clarisonic Pro Cleansing Brush along with my Glo Therapeutics Purifying Gel Cleanser to cleanse my skin in the morning. This cleanser is perfect for ridding the skin of dirt and excessive oils, however, I never feel that it strips my skin of moisture. I have pretty tough skin, so I can get away with using my Clarisonic Brush once a day. When I feel that my skin needs a little more of a pick me up, I also exfoliate with the NIA24 Physical Cleansing Scrub. I know it sounds aggressive, however, the particles are very fine and gently exfoliate the skin without aggravating it. Once I've cleansed my skin, I move onto the lotions and potions...
If I have any residual eye makeup on, I use this Pevonia Botanica Eye Makeup Remover. The solution is very gentle and has never irritated my eyes. I like to apply an eye cream during the day, and I've used the Vital Eye Cream from Glo Therapeutics for years. They recently starting packaging it in this convenient tube situation which seems much more hygienic and easier to use. Jeremy and I have used Glo Therapeutics Oil- Free Moisturizer for years as well, its lightweight and has never made me greasy. I think its funny, though, because I've started adding 2 or 3 drops of Beauty Counter's Balancing Facial Oil to my daily moisturizer, which makes me think my concoction isn't oil free anymore. The Balancing Oil heals and lightly nourishes my skin, and it absorbs quickly into the skin. The oil is the newest addition to my routine, and I think I love everything about it, from the scent to way it moisturizes my skin. It makes my morning routine feel a little more luxe.
We all know that investing in our skincare is well worth it. And, having a quality morning skincare routine can truly add that extra pep into your step... and your skin!
What skincare products do you use in the morning, to prep your skin for the day? Share your tips in the comments below.
~ Shana