Face Facts: Get Yourself a Skincare Routine

I didn't wear much makeup this past summer. Two surgeries in less than a month caused me to be home recovering most days. I was ready to get back to my makeup routine, but I consoled myself with thoughts of how much my skin would appreciate the makeup free break. To my surprise, just the opposite happened. My skin looked dull, and the texture was terrible. Maybe it was all the stress on my body, or hormonal changes, but my skin was in pretty bad shape. I've been trying some different products to get back on track and still incorporating some goodies from my previous skin routine. Now I realize as my body changes, my skin care routine has to be adjusted from time to time as well. You can see my specific routine here, for some inspiration, and check out some of the minor changes I've made below.

Get yourself a routine!

If you want to see improvement in your skin, then you have to get committed to a regular routine. Consistency will help you figure out what works and what doesn't. That also means no more going to sleep in a full face of makeup.

You can see my specific routine here, for some inspiration, and below you will find a more general guide that you can adapt as you see fit.

Cleansing

Cleansing can be done in several ways with cleaning lotion, cold cream, and even soap and a washcloth. I was using Cetaphil Antibacterial Bar, but for the past month I have been using Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Cleanser to help my skin look more even and healthy.

Toning

Toners are mild astringents that are applied to the face to tighten the skin and close the pores when the cleansing process is completed. They are available online and in pharmacies, with lots of different scents and ingredients. Although it is important that you pick the right one for your skin type, or you could be doing more harm than good. Toning doesn't work well for my skin, but if you are very oily, this might be a great step to add to your routine. Try something gentle and fragrance free first to see if this step agrees with your skin.

Exfoliating 
Baking Soda and my Clarisonic Brush is still my favorite way to exfoliate.  I did recently try Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion but I didn't find it to be very effective.  It did leave my skin smooth, but not as smooth as a simple baking soda paste.  

Serums
I added a step prior to moisturizing. I have been using a repair serum to correct some of my recent skin issues.

I'm currently using Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate before applying my night moisturizer, and Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate. after cleansing (and before moisturizing in the mornings.)

Moisturizing

Another vital step to having gorgeous skin is moisturizing. This is where you applied a rich cream or oil that smooths, plumps and nourishes the skin. Feeding the cells under the surface and allowing them to repair effectively.  

Although some women can get a little confused about this step. Especially concerning when to apply their moisturizer, as they don't want to overload their skin, but they also want the best results possible. Check out the post at https://moisturizers.com/3-best-times-apply-moisturizer-glowing-skin/ for some guidance on this. Just don't be afraid to judge how your skin feels from the inside and feel free to apply after activities that can dry the skin like showers and swimming.
I am currently using Dr. Adorable's Triple Refined Organic Emu Oil. as my moisturizer.

Facemasks

Using a facemask is an additional step to a good face care routine. You can do it occasionally or once or twice a week. Depending on the need for it, and whether you find it relaxing or not. Usually, it should be done before moisturizing, although some folks prefer to do it after to minimise any skin drying aspects. In fact, there are quite a few tips on applying your mask that are useful that you can learn more about at https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-21339/.

Use a mask that is geared towards any specific problem like breakouts, or dry skin that you have. Just remember not to do one right before a big night out as they will bring out any imperfections and blemishes. Achieving the exact opposite of what you are aiming for and leaving you with blemishes instead of glowing skin.

Thanks for reading!

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