Those that know me, know I have struggled with my skin for YEARS. Almost 15 to be exact. I had come to terms with just accepting it as is (dry, oily, acne-prone, textured, tired, etc) pretty recently, before getting the sudden and intense urge to stop wearing foundation. This desire actually emerged after having such a hard time finding a foundation I loved! No matter how hard I try, it seems impossible to match my skin tone... and I think my pH level in my skin must fluctuate? Not sure. Either way, I was exhausted by the process of researching, testing, spending tons of money, just to start again after a few days. And with a wild one year old, putting “my face on” every morning became harder and harder.
All of this brought the realization of how much I relied on my foundation. It was definitely my security blanket. It covered all my blemishes, old and new, and even if the shade wasn't perfect, I felt better. Bleh. Those days are done and I dove headfirst into finding the perfect skin care routine that would actually HELP my specific skin.
I normally don't fall sucker to crazy expensive skincare products because I had never TRULY seen good results in the past. This has changed a bit. I do feel strongly about what you put ON your skin and IN your body will make a difference. So beyond eating better (read: less processed foods, more fruits and veggies, whole ingredients) and drinking more water, these are my top favorite products right now and a bit about my regimen:
-Purity by Philosophy Cleanser-
I use this morning and night. I love it! Another favorite is Cetaphil.
-Thayer’s Witch Hazel-
I also use this both morning and night. This is a great toner for a very low price. It is not harsh and can be used often (great to get extra residue off after cleansing).
-Drunk Elephant C-Firma Serum-
I am new to the D.E. fan club but I am hooked. The ingredients are thorough, and non-toxic.
-Glossier Rich Priming Moisturizer-
I’ve been using this for almost two years (!), that alone says a lot about the product. This is my daily moisturizer, I used it every morning (and sometimes again later in day if I notice extra dryness…which is my life). It’s light enough to not feel bogged down or greasy but actually works!
NIGHTTIME
-Purity by Philosophy Cleanser-
-Thayer’s Witch Hazel-
-Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Serum-
-Rose Hip Oil/UFO Oil-
Okay this is where the routine changes. If I am feeling like a breakout is coming, I will use my UFO oil. At first the smell kind of bothered me but it really helps with problem areas if you still to using it! On good skin days, I like to take my quartz roller and dab a little Rose Hip Seed Oil on. This helps with puffiness, tired skin and is great for dark spots, etc.
-Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask-
This is a new product, and I am a huge fan. It can be used as a moisturizer, which is what I do since I’ve got that dry skin problem. A lot like glossier, it’s not super heavy. But if you have skin that isn’t as dry as mine, washing it off after 10 minutes is probably the way to go! SF just launched their next product: Overtime, and I can’t wait to order!
Can’t believe I added a selfie on here :). Ha! I am just so surprised at how this regimen is working out for my skin. If you feel defeated with your skin or even foundation like I was… I encourage you to test some different oils and serums out. I am still shocked at the difference I noticed so quickly. And on a mama note, little things like this have helped me feel more confident and energized lately! It really is the little things, haha! xoxo