While I’ve written here and there on the topic of skincare, it has occurred to me of late that I’ve never outlined my routine. The thing is, it often changes. There are some brands I’ve been loyal to, but I can’t resist trying out new products. Regardless, the steps largely remain the same. However, I’ve been noticing an overall improvement in the way my skin has been looking. My diet has not changed (if anything, it has gotten worse!), so I can only attribute this to my skincare routine. Thus, I think it’s high time I share a step-by-step here, starting with my morning regime.
Step 1: Cleanse
Currently, I’m using the Makeup Melt Dry/Wet Gentle Jelly Cleanser by Bliss. I really like this cleanser in the morning, since it is gentle and does not strip my skin of moisture. It’s very similar to Glossier’s Milky Jelly Cleanser–perhaps questionably so. It’s nearly a copycat product! Out of the two, I like Glossier’s version better, but this one is pretty great for the price.
When cleansing, I try to use cool to cold water, though I sometimes cave in to warm water on those particularly chilly mornings. I find that cold water tames post-sleep puffiness and gives my skin a brighter, fresher feel and appearance.
Always remember to gently pat your face dry with a towel rather than rub, which pulls at the skin.
Step 2: Treat
This step is optional, though I do try to fit it in every day. This is the part where I apply a serum of some sort to my face. I typically use one of two options, both of which are from The Ordinary: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum or the Hyaluronic Acid serum.
On days when my skin is acneic, I tend to use the niacinamide serum, since it’s great at controlling oil production and calming inflamed skin. I grab the hyaluronic acid serum when I’m looking for extra hydration. It’s actually a joy to apply, as it gives my skin an immediate plumpness that looks healthy and feels amazing. Sometimes I’ll even mix the hyaluronic acid serum straight into my moisturizer.
Step 3: Hydrate
This is my favorite step! I love the immediate gratification of applying a good moisturizer. The product I’m currently using is Clinique’s Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly. Its texture is incredibly light, almost like a serum. This lotion is a good option for those with oily skin, since it is water-based and sinks right in. I find that it also primes my face nicely for foundation due to its slight, though not unpleasant, tackiness.
One thing I always make sure to do is pat a little of the moisturizer right under my eyes. It’s important to do this very gently, since this area is so delicate. I think this step can sometimes be forgotten in the morning, but it makes for a smooth canvas when applying concealer.
Also, don’t forget your lips! I always apply a lip balm in the morning to make sure they are hydrated. I absolutely love Olivu 426’s Vitamin E Lip Balm, which I wrote about in my last empties post.
Step 4: Protect
Lastly, I apply sunscreen. This is the most important step of all and one that I’ve only begun to do regularly in the last two years. Right now, I’m using the Supergoop Everyday Sunscreen in SPF 50. I like it because it absorbs right into my skin and doesn’t feel greasy. It doesn’t change the way my makeup applies either; though, I find it’s best to let it sink in for a good 15-30 minutes before going over it with foundation.
In addition to wearing sunscreen to protect my skin for health reasons, this step is part of my anti-aging strategy. And it should be part of yours, too! There’s a wealth of data out there showing that UV exposure is one of the greatest contributors to premature aging. While I firmly believe that aging is a beautiful process, I also want to do so as gracefully as possible. For me, this means protecting my skin from those rays.
And, that’s my morning skincare routine! Over time, I’ve gotten better about following these steps every day, whether I plan on also wearing a full face of makeup or not. It’s true; skincare is really all about consistency. Only a couple of years ago, I was battling new breakouts every week, and now they are much less frequent.
Of course, my nighttime routine also plays a major role in that–perhaps even more so. I’ve recently started using a new brand of skincare products at night that has already been working wonders. I plan on sharing a breakdown of that routine soon!
What are your favorite daytime skincare products? Let me know in the comments. And don’t forget to wear sunscreen!
xoxo Kelli
sugarlaced.blog 