Saturday, February 28, 2009

First post! Current skincare routine.

Hey everyone, if anyone out there is reading this! For the sake of this blog, I'll go by C.

I love makeup and skincare, so basically, I decided to make a blog because I wanted to share my ideas and knowledge with others out there, and hopefully gain some tips and ideas in return.

For my first post, I'll do my current skincare routine. Skincare is absolutely the most important part of any beauty routine. I've always struggled with attaining perfect skin, and I think that I'm coming really close with the products that I'm currently using. These products are on the pricey side, but I find that good quality skincare products should be invested in. Perfect skin gives an aura of youth and health, regardless of your age.

My skin is very sensitive, very fair, and pretty acne prone. I would probably describe it as... normal to oily. I think it's pretty normal right now, though it used to be oily (most likely due to aggressive skincare). I tend to get cystic acne around my chin near my cycle, had large pores (they have been cured by this regimen!), uneven skintone (also cured!), and basically imperfect skin all around. I'm just on the quest for "makeup-optional skin".

In the morning I use:

Philosophy The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash
I have noticed a huge improvement in my skin since using this. Exfoliation is a step that is often underestimated and skipped in American skincare routines. I made the mistake of not exfoliating, and since trying this product I realize what I was missing!
This is super gentle, even for my uber-sensitive skin.
$25 for 8 ounces (other sizes available) at Sephora stores or sephora.com

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
This is a great tried-and-true product. It also comes in a lotion form. I bought the gel form because it had much higher reviews, though I may buy the lotion form sometime. This is a great product that leaves my skin feeling moisturized without feeling greasy. I haven't experienced any breakouts or irritation due to this product either. Definitely a keeper.
$24 for 4.2 ounces at Sephora stores, sephora.com or Clinique counters

In the evening I use:

Philosophy Purity Made Simple
This milky liquid cleanser doesn't remove all of my makeup, like it claims, but it's still good enough for me to stick with it. Although it hasn't prevented breakouts for me, I have noticed improvement in my skin since using it. It gives me a nice, healthy glow. It's super gentle and more affordable than other high-end brands. Definitely worth looking into.
$20 for 8 ounces (other sizes available) at Sephora stores or sephora.com

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
mixed with
Philosophy Booster Caps
These booster caps are definitely an investment. I spent weeks reading reviews before I could convince myself to get them. But I think it's been worth it. They leave my skin feeling silky smooth, and I have seen a definite improvement since using them. I can't wait to see how my skin looks as I continue to use this product over time. However, the hefty price tag will probably keep me from getting this again. If you have the money, you should look into this.
$50 for 60 capsules at Sephora stores or sephora.com

When I need it:

DDF Sulfur Therapeutic Mask
I SWEAR by this stuff. This may be the best purchase I have ever made. This mask clarifies the skin and makes all around improvements. It never dries me out, though I do make sure that I moisturize after I take off the mask, just as a precaution. I have never had any peeling or flaking of the skin with this mask. It is the only product that has cleared up a cystic zit. I use it once a week or as needed as a mask, just put it on, let it dry, and rinse it off with lots and lots of water. The effect is amazing. I also use it as a spot treatment at times, and I can leave it on (as a spot treatment) all night without it damaging my skin. This is a lifesaver. It does smell of sulfur, but it is so incredible that I don't care.
$38 for 4 ounces at Sephora stores or Sephora.com

My skincare routine will be changing over the next few months, and if I see good results, I'll be sure to post more on here!

Have a good one!
C.