Now that I’m my mid-30s I’ve (finally) realized I ain’t gettin’ any younger and this is the only face, skin, and body I will have…so treat it nice, girl! Over the last few years I’ve gained more awareness of what products I buy and how my skin reacts to them. No more ‘well it was on sale at the drugstore so I just bought it’ routine. NOT that there is anything wrong with drugstore purchases (hello dupes you are my love language and I’ll be sharing some of my favorite dupes on here soon) I just mean I’m purchasing with a little more intention for my skin type and skin age.
Self Care:
In addition to the anti-aging benefits of a skin care routine, I also try to use this time as a few minutes for just me. In the age of adulting self care is more important than ever to me. Most days I’m just applying and washing to feel accomplished before bed. But at least once a week I try to take a few extra steps to dab some essence, massage some cream, use my Ice Roller or PMD. It’s crazy how just a few extra steps help me feel a little better about myself. Even if that’s the only self-care I’ve done I feel more confident because I’ve taken care of my body in just a few easy steps. Note: I have combination skin, but am mostly oily and don’t really have sensitive skin – just to give you a point of reference to what’s worked for my skin type as you continue reading. (hashtag not sponsored, these are my honest and genuine opinions of products I’ve found and enjoyed) 😉My Self-Care Beauty Products:
PMD Beauty: This at-home microdermabrasion lives up to its hype. In just a matter of months I have seen a brighter complexion, better absorption to my skin care products, and even Geoff noticed my skin felt softer. The PMD comes with a selection of discs made from aluminum oxide crystals that are hypo-allergenic, anti-bacterial, and customizable to skin sensitivities. They range in price range and are so easy to use. I got mine on major sale around Christmas time and have used it the recommended amount of 1x per week.
Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence: I love how this product makes my skin feel even cleaner after my face wash. This is said to be a GREAT dupe for SK-II Facial Treatment and for under $30 compared to SK-II $99+ momma liiiiiike. I’ve read and watched so much on Korean skin care and essence is all the rage. They have a 7-step skin care routine at the start and end to their day. Meanwhile I’m over here like…*barely gets two steps completed before bedtime. But this essence makes my skin feel brighter and helps with temporary redness. I’ve loved adding this step to my nighttime routine after my face wash and before my creams.
Eye Cream:
IT Cosmetics, Confidence in an Eye Cream: This brand is a cult favorite and for good reasons. I’ve tried their face cream, eye cream, Bye Bye Under Eye concealer and powder….I’ve yet to meet an IT Cosmetic I didn’t love. 😉 But for these purposes I’ll share my thoughts specifically on the under eye cream – I LURV IT. A little bit goes a long way! It’s so creamy without feeling heavy or oily and I wanna bathe in it. I even like to dab a little on my more dry areas before applying makeup to give a little smoother absorption for my CC cream or foundation.Glycolic Acid:
Pixi Glow Peel Pads: You may have heard by now, but lemme just 411 you just in case. These cleansing pads contain glycol acid and retinal. Glycolic acid stimulates cell turnover and retinyl promotes collagen production. Check and check. Gimme that youthful glow and cell turnover on the daily please. These pads come in two different glycolic amounts. If you have a bit more sensitive skin I would probably suggest starting with the 5% and working your way to the 20%. #notadoctor Skin tip for my sensitive skin readers. 😉 Full disclaimer: I started with the 5% and currently have the 20% and have noticed the higher glycolic acid contains more of a ‘residue’ feeling on my face. Personally I don’t love this before bedtime. I don’t like the way it makes my face feel when I lay down on my clean pillow so I’ll usually wipe my face with a pad in the morning time when I’m having a slow day or a ‘make-up free’ day. I’ll just allow the glycolic acid, rose water and retinol to soak in and do it’s thang. Just my personal use though, you may find it doesn’t do that for you…so wear on sister, wear on!
Origins Charcoal Mask: I’m a sucker for a face mask. There is just something about applying a mask and feeling all ‘in-home spa care’ that makes me feel so extra and I love it. I really love ORIGINS products and their active charcoal mask leaves my skin feeling noticeably softer. I love how it gently extracts my blemishes without causing irritation. But user beware don’t use this days before an event or night out. Instead plan to use it the day after when you’re detoxing some impurities. 😉
Marcy says
Beautiful