We are all familiar with the saying, “beauty is only skin deep”, but what does it actually mean? Yes, inner confidence and self-love radiates from within, yet our physical appearance still affects our inner confidence from time to time. For me, my external appearance is a reflection of how I’m feeling internally. So, taking proper care of my skin ties into my overall wellness. It is also your body's largest organ, so treat it well!
For those of you who don’t have cosmetology degrees or education within the industry, I think it can be really intimidating...There are millions of products and brands to sift through. So here’s my suggestion to you. Trim the fat. Find what works for you, and what doesn’t. You may not need a 6 step skincare regimen. Heck, some women find that a Dove soapbar is the best cleanser for their skin. I envy those women who get to save on simple products, but I have spoiled my skin lavishly throughout the years and it refuses to settle for soap!
Aside from drinking as much water as possible, do your best to incorporate these three categories into your skincare regimen.
Cleanser:
Some people are lazy and want to skip this step. In the mornings, sure you can get away with it and use a washcloth instead. Definitely, wash your face at night though! Rid your skin of environmental toxins and excess oil build-up. Here are my favorites!
Tatcha - Pure One Step Camellia Oil Cleanser: Takes off ALL your make-up, even waterproof mascara and clumpy lash glue residue. Make-up remover and cleanser in one? Your welcome!
Shiseido - Benefiance Extra Creamy Cleansing Foam: I’ve been using this ever since I was in high school. Rich, creamy lather; good for all skin types, removes makeup and excess surface cells, leaving your skin hydrated. Great anti-aging cleanser. I tend to use this one a lot during cold months as my skin gets pretty dry.
Kopari - Coconut Cleansing Oil: Vegan product alert! Removes makeup, leaves skin soft and it doesn’t clog pores!
*Kate Somerville - ExfoliKate* Very important and I usually keep this in the shower! Use 2-3 times a week but give your skin time in between. Very important to use a moderate exfoliating cleanser a few times a week to remove the buildup of impurities under your skin!
Moisturizer:
Wait a second, did I skip a step??? Okay, I’m trying to simplify the process and list the essentials! Tone all you want, and if it’s part of a 3 step program, stick with it. Otherwise, I’ve gone without it and seem to be doing just fine.
Herbivore - Pink Cloud: Already sounds like a dream and your skin will think so too! Any time I notice a little rosacea on my cheeks, this soothes it - leaving my skin fresh and dewy.
Tatcha - The Water Cream: Oil-free and anti-aging, this water cream provides the utmost moisture. A touch of 23 karat gold? Why thank you, ever so much.
Dr. Dennis Gross - Vitamin C+ Collagen Deep Cream - Helps improve dark spots and wrinkles. Deep hydration, while improving your skin’s complexion.
Eyes:
Definitely don’t want to skip this step!
Drunk Elephant - C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream: Vegan! Great for AM/PM use. Restores elasticity and firmness, while brightening and moisturizing
Biossance - Squalane + Peptide Eye Gel: Helps puffiness, firmness and elasticity. If you ever get small bumps under your eyes, it may be from a heavy eye cream! Switch to this as it won’t clog your pores but still helps with those problematic under eye issues.
Belif - Moisturizing Eye Bomb: Lightweight, but extremely moisturizing. Helps with dryness, fine lines and wrinkles. Also provides a great canvas for makeup.
**For those ladies who wan't anti-aging specific products, here are my recommendations**
