It wasn’t until a few years ago that I realized I didn’t need strong products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in my skincare routine. I never pictured myself using something targeted towards “sensitive skin” (even knowing that’s exactly what I have) because I thought it wasn’t strong enough. What I didn’t realize was that using products with such harsh ingredients may have been aggravating and irritating my skin all along, making things worse. One day I decided to take the time to understand proper skincare. I started researching, and I came across “the regimen” via Acne.org. I loved the approach which was based upon simplicity, and using gentle products with few ingredients. I started using the regimen, tweaked it a bit, and it has been working great for me ever since. Here is a rundown of my skincare regimen:
1. Olay Foaming Face Wash. I started using the Olay face wash for sensitive skin, and I was impressed with the way it cleaned my skin without stripping it or leaving it dry. I love it’s gel-like pearl consistency, and the moderate lather that it produces. This gem is both fragrance and oil free (necessary for my skin care needs) and it contains aloe vera. The incentive is having it easily accessible at most drugstores, and it being under $6! ($4.97 at Walmart!)
2. Philosophy Hope in a Bottle, Oil Free SPF 20. This moisturizer is my all time holy grail, creme de le creme. Ive been using it for about 5 years now and I honestly can’t remember what I was using before I found it. I recently tested the waters with a daily moisturizer from Olay and I couldn’t run back to this quick enough! Unless Philosophy plans on discontinuing this moisturizer (I pray this never, ever happens because I wouldn’t know what to do with myself) I will not be straying again. I love this moisturizer because despite its thick, creamy consistency, it is as light as a feather. It is marketed as a matte finish product, and that it absolutely is. I don’t feel greasy or oily, and I feel as though my skin is breathing under the layer of moisture and protection. Yes the price point is steep at $42, but it is definitely worth it. This moisturizer usually lasts me 4 to 5 months, which at $10 a month, is cheaper than a meal for 2 at Chipotle. Just sayin.
3. EOS (lip balm). It wasn’t until recently that I found out “eos” stands for the evolution of smooth. They are dead on with their brand name (and the packaging is genius too.) I’ve tried a few flavors and my favorites are the strawberry and the strawberry banana. In that order. They provide the most moisture, and they smell delicious! Even on the days when I don’t have color or gloss on my lips (which seems to be out weighing the days that I do, now) I feel cute and confident wearing this balm. I LOVE eos!!
Honorable mentions:
1. I drink a gallon of water a day. I know that this may seem unrealistic for some people, but trust me– it’s totally doable. The purpose of drinking a lot of water is to flush your system of toxins and impurities. Since drinking a gallon (or more) on a daily basis for about two to three months, I have noticed a drastic difference in the clarity and glow of my skin.
2. I don’t smoke and I rarely consume alcohol. I TRY to follow a healthy balance of fruits, vegetables (especially dark, leafy greens), whole grains, and protein.
3. I apply aloe on my face at night before bed, in place of chemicals and acne creams. I like having it on overnight because it helps repair and restore my skin.
That’s pretty much it… my beauty routine is pretty short and sweet. It’s taken me a while to embrace the “less is more” philosophy, but I’m happy that I’ve finally arrived here. I want to know what YOUR skin care/ beauty secrets are. Spill!
