Let me start by saying that I am not blessed with good skin… and since I’ve stopped taking birth control… well, it’s only gotten worst. When I look for skincare, I look for products that are going to penetrate deep, hydrate and calm skin.
Quick preface to why my skin is so bad. I started taking the pill at about 17 because I couldn’t handle the acne, and when in highschool – that’s the last thing you want to worry about. Even controlling the hormones – I was never/ have never been pimple free. I guess part of it is hereditary, part of it is hormonal and the other parts… well, I have no freaking clue! I eat balanced, drink mostly only water (and coffee… and alcoholic beverages from time-to-time), tried eliminating lactose (#cheeseiscrack) and not much improvement, I feel like i’ve tried everything.
I have combination-dry skin with texture (pimples) and uneven complexion and here are the products I use religiously every morning that I’ve noticed THE most constant improvement with (Like on good skin days I can get away with tinted moisturizer):
- Cleanser: Drunk Elephant – Pekee Bar: This cleasing bar doesn’t look like much but let me tell you, it may be tiny but it’s mighty. I like using this in the morning especially because it doesn’t strip my skin of it’s natural oils thanks to it’s perfectly calculated lower PH level of 6.51 (compared to other cleansers that are at about 9). It also tones and promotes moisture retention, while improving the feel of elasticity and firmness… I’ll take it!
- Toner: Kiehl’s – Ultra Facial Toner: Another gentle and super effective product is this toner. It doesn’t contain alcohol, so it won’t give you that burning feeling (which, contrary to popular belief, doesn’t means it’s working ), it’s suitable for all skin types and feels refreshing.
- Serum: Kiehl’s – Hydro-Plumping Re-Texturizing Serum Concentrate: I have seen the MOST improvement in my skin with this moussey/gel-like serum (which rationalizes the price-point for me). It’s SUPER lightweight, absorbs quickly and penetrates deep into my skin. It makes my skin look and feel plumper thus deminishing the look and feel of textured skin, which is great before applying makeup.
- Concentrate: Kiehl’s – Daily Reviving Concentrate: This is an oily product. Although it does absorb into the skin, I prefer to use this when I’m not going to apply foundation because it tends to make my makeup slip all over my face, which is it’s only downfall because it gives me the most effortless and beautifully natural glow and helps with evening out my skintone and reduces some excess texture. (It doesn’t hurt that it smells like a spa in a bottle).
or
- Serum: La Roche-Posay – HYALU B5: When I am going to be putting on makeup (which is pretty much everyday) I grab for this guy. I was sent this to test out by Topbox and (tbh) was really skeptical to try because the scent is quite perfume-y which made me nervous with my sensitive skin. It’s a thick serum formula that turns into water as your working it into your face. It’s combination of hyaloronic acid and vitamin B5 makes it great to lock in moisture all day and plump skin making it a bonus for keeping away wrinkles.
- Moisturizer: CeraVe – Moisturizing Lotion: Besides the fact that it’s very inexpensive, this is my FAVORITE daytime moisturizer. Again, it’s lightweight, which is important when wearing makeup all-day. My skin gets that replenished feeling. There’s no scent, it’s great for sensitive skin and is very moisturizing! Can’t beat this moisturizer!
I know this seems extensive, but for me, taking care of my skin is super important! If it makes me look and feel better about my skin then it’s worth the extra minute every morning. Top it off with some SPF in my foundation and my skin and I are ready for the day!
Let me know what products you guys use in the AM and why they’re your tried and true and maybe i’ll have to try them out for myself.
Have a good morning,
alongwithb
alongwithb.com 