Although our focus tends to be on mental health, indulging in self-care is essential. Not only because it promotes a healthy relationship with yourself but also helps us recharge our proverbial batteries. Which we all especially need now more than ever.
Exhausting ourselves runs us down mentally as well as physically, it can be draining. Thus the dire need for some indulgent “me time” otherwise known as self-care.
That can often come in many different forms; for me, cleaning and organizing are always therapeutic. Random spurts of lively dancing to some banging tunes also helps. While cooking has also added into the mix (speaking of anyone down for a recipe swap?). Nevertheless, my favorite constant lately is my skincare routine, something I’ve tried to perfect since my teen years.
Skincare’s often looked over because it’s deemed as feminine when, in reality, taking care of yourself and your largest organ is genderless.
Thankfully, my mother instilled the importance of skincare and face washing very early on (as young as my pre-teens). Nonetheless, having sensitive yet combination skin hasn’t been easy. It’s been a costly challenge with purchasing numerous cleansers, creams, serums, lotions, and potions. It’s no wonder how tired I am.
Alas, I seem to finally found products that agree with my combination and sensitive skin without causing dermatitis/irritation. However, before we dive into the deep end of one of our favorite subjects, we must say that our Holy Trinity of any skincare routine is cleanser, serum, as well as a moisturizer.
A.M. Cleanser
Washing your face twice a day is paramount to remove all of the excess dirt and oil. My sister, who happens to be a badass makeup artist and fellow skincare enthusiast, recommended La Roche Posay a few years back. Ever since then, La Roche Posay’s indispensable in my skincare arsenal because it’s gentle enough without drying out your skin.
P.M. Cleanser
As stated above, La Roche Posay’s pivotal in my arsenal, which is why I use a different cleanser at nighttime. This one is a cream cleanser, so it’s a bit richer yet still gentle and leaves my face oh so soft, as well as hydrated, which’s significant.
Essence
Usually, the second step for most is a toner, but this is a no for me. I’ve used so many and have yet to find one that doesn’t irritate me. So this is why, for me, it’s all about the essence. Despite only having used this essence on and off since October, it’s been a game-changer for my skin. It hydrates all of the skin’s layers so that you can use the excess on your neck and décolletage.
Serum
Since I have such fair and sensitive skin, with pink undertones, inflammation happens. This serum’s been an excellent addition (when I remember to use it as I struggle with anxiety/depression, sometimes the struggle of keeping up with skincare is real).
The serum includes antioxidative benefits that help brighten skin, thanks to its niacinamides as well as peptides. These are the right ingredients to look for to help your skin flourish as you deserve.
Serum II
Besides using Peach & Lily’s glass skin refining serum, I also alternate with The Ordinary’s hyaluronic acid, which I’ve been using for about two years now. This serum is one of the less expensive options but also a great alternative against the fancier skincare claims. There’s a reason The Ordinary has a cult following.
Moisturizer
Moisturizer is an absolute must. There’s no doubt that a moisturizer can make a massive difference in one’s skincare regimen, no matter your gender. Dry, ashy, and flaky skin is never fun to deal with or attractive (speaking on my behalf, since I get self-conscience about my combo skin).
Caution this moisturizer also contains hyaluronic acid, which is why on days that I use The Ordinary’s hyaluronic acid, I switch to Weleda Skin Food because too much hyaluronic acid is counterproductive (drying).
Makeup Remover
Even though I don’t use makeup every day like before, taking off your makeup is always the first step; this ensures that every product absorbs onto your skin as opposed to the products sitting on top of a dirty surface.
Previously, I used jojoba oil (which’s ironically an illustrious oil to counteract oily skin), but now I use Banila Co. Clean it Zero. It’s gentle but potent, which’s perfect for me since I prefer waterproof mascara; this removes it all.
Exfoliant
Twice a week, I try to exfoliate my skin to help decongest it. Ten minutes is all you need with this incredible tingling acid, and afterward, your skin feels brand new.
Facial Mask
This mask came into my life through happenstance. Nicole sent me this mask as a part of a thoughtfully curated birthday present in the form of a care package last year. Ever since, the Joah skin polish gold peel-off mask’s been a favorite because it leaves my skin soft while tightening, firming, and detoxifying.
In brief (while I’m not an esthetician, just an avid skincare enthusiast) teleconsult with your dermatologist or patch test new products beforehand.
Overall, I hope to help a fellow sensitive and combination complected person through my years of trials and errors that are far too lengthy to share. Instead, heed my words and my updated skincare routine above.
