If you’re reading this, I really hope you at least wash your face. In light of all of the recent social distancing, now is the time to refocus on the important things in life, including self-care. If you’ve been searching for a simple skincare routine, now is the perfect time to introduce one, especially if you’re in your early thirties and new to this whole skincare thing. Check out my simple regimen, featuring mostly clean and natural products.
Step 1: Double Cleanse
One-step cleansing is cute, but if you wear makeup, you should consider double-cleansing. Step one is really meant to strip your skin of product buildup and debris. Step two is meant to deep clean your skin, without stripping it of its essential hydration. That’s why I love an oil-based cleanser, followed by a gentle hydrating cleanser.
My fave duo: Biossance Squalene + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil and Farmacy Clean Bee Ultra Gentle Facial Cleanser
Step 2: Tone
Many people skip this step altogether. However, freshly cleansed skin needs to be rebalanced, meaning your pH needs to be on point for your skincare products to absorb better. That’s why you need to tone. I opt for rosewater as daily toner, and I use a clarifying toner once or twice per week.
My faves: Heritage Store Rosewater Spray (as an everyday toner) and Tarte Knockout Tingling Treatment (as an exfoliating toner 1-2 times per week)
Step 3: Treat
Your skin could always use a little extra love before you moisturize. That’s why the treatment step is so important. With this step, you get to address your individual skin concerns. Hyperpigmentation and moisture retention are my two concerns at the moment, but there is a mask, serum, or beauty oil out there for everyone.
My faves: Farmacy Honey Potion Antioxidant Renewing and Hydrating Mask (for a weekly hydration treatment) The INKEY List Rosehip Oil (for evening skin tone), The Ordinary Squalene Oil (for surface hydration), and Josie Maran 100 percent Pure Argan Oil (for anti-aging)
Step 4: Eyes
If you’re 30 or older, you should probably be using an eye cream. Who wants “crow’s feet” or under eye dark circles that give you that ‘always tired’ look? I don’t. The key is keeping delicate skin around the eyes hydrated and firm. If brightening is your concern, opt for an eye cream with vitamin C.
My faves: Drunk Elephant C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream (for brightening), Biossance Squalene + Peptide Eye Gel (for puffiness and fine lines), and Avene Soothing Eye Contour Cream (for dryness, and sensitivity)
Step 5: Moisturize
Moisturizing is an essential step in any skincare regimen. Your moisturizer serves as a protective barrier for your skin. It should not only keep you hydrated and prevent moisture loss throughout the day, but also help shield your skin from environmental aggressors.
My faves: Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet (for everyday lightweight hydration) Avène Skin Recovery Cream (for super dry skin– my Accutane go-to) Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream (for deep hydration and anti-aging)
Step 6 (Daytime only): Sunscreen
Many people skip this step too, but sunscreen helps to fight premature aging, and it protects you from sun damage. We all love a good tan, but sunscreen allows you to tan responsibly. I like to go with a physical mineral sunscreen, as the ingredients are safer for skin and the environment. But, I must admit, I’m obsessed with Black Girl Sunscreen for a non-harmful chemical sunscreen.
My faves: Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 (for under makeup) and Alba Botanica Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen (Fragrance Free) SPF 30 (for makeup free days)
Denim & Lipstick 