Today, I consider my skin care routine to be a ritualistic moment of self-care, but that wasn't always the case. I didn't really have a skin care routine in high school, until a battle with acne left me no choice. I had to start slowly and work my way up. An esthetician once told me that with my skin, less is more. I have combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin, so even the slightest thing will break me out. Because of this, I've had to be very discerning about my routine, and while there are still some things I'm trying out, I've basically got my morning skin care down to a science.
Through all that I've learned about skin care, perhaps the most important thing might be to listen to your skin. You know what's going on with your face better than anyone, and the more in tune you are with your skin, the more effective your skin care will be. Also, it's important to note that I'm not a doctor or esthetician, just someone who wants constantly glowy, clear skin. These are the 15 products I use to get there.
I have combination skin, and sometimes my skin feels really nice in the morning, so I don't want to strip it with a full on cleanse. In those instances, I reach for a micellar water, like this Drunk Elephant E-Rase Milki Micellar Water ($28).
If I feel I need a proper cleanse, this classic gel-based Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser ($20) is a go-to for me.
If I'm feeling fancy, I'll use this foaming Dr. Barbara Sturm Cleanser ($70). Yes, it's pricey, but it feels like a cloud on your face. It's the most enjoyable cleanser I've ever used.
Next comes toner, and I've been using this Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner ($45) for years. It doesn't strip my skin or make it feel tight, and I like it as a follow-up to my cleanser.
OK, hear me out. The Shishedo Facial Cotton ($12) is not your drugstore cotton round, but if you have sensitive skin or have to take off stubborn eye makeup, there's nothing better than this.
Next comes vitamin C serum, and recently, I've been gravitating toward this Summer Fridays CC Me Vitamin C Serum ($64) because it really does what it says it will. I stay glowing all day long.
After I apply my serum, I like to wait a minute to let it sink in before I continue with my routine. While waiting, I apply my deodorant. The Kopari Coconut Deodorant ($14) in the original scent is my natural product of choice right now because it works, and it smells like cupcakes.
Finally, I pat some moisturizer onto my face, neck, chest, and hands. The Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream ($30) is a constant go-to. It works with every skin type and doesn't break me out.
This Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer ($68) is amazing because it's lightweight but still moisturizing. I can use this product in any season, which is kind of unique.
I've been really liking this Supergoop! Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40 ($36) because, as the mane suggests, it gives me a great glow. It's a great option for when I don't want to wear makeup, which is basically never.
This Dr. Loretta Urban Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 40 ($50) is a new favorite. It's got a very subtle glow that makes skin look healthy, and it also lets the skin breathe. I love it.
I actually prefer to apply eye cream in the morning. This Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream ($65) is good for me because lots of eye creams tend to give me milia, and this one doesn't.
I finish off my routine with a light lip balm. Right now, I'm into this Laneige Lip Glowy Balm ($15).
Finally, a few times a week, I use this Herbivore Jade Facial Roller ($30). It helps to both soak in all the products I've just applied and also depuff my face, which I always need.
Ok, so cuticle care is still technically skin care. This Olive and June Cuticle Serum ($30 for two) couldn't be easier to use, and it's really helping prevent hangnails.