In my hunt for a new and improved routine, I found an amazing blog, full of the most detailed skincare advice I had ever come across. Thank you Caroline Hirons, my skin is grateful!
CLEANSE: I am currently using REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk (Formerly known as Hydracalm). Formulated for sensitive complexions, to help with redness and irritation, this is a lovely, light cleanser. REN products do not contain any parabens, sulphate, mineral oil, petrolatum, silicones, and synthetic colours or fragrances. This cleanser has a pleasant scent, and I find it quite uplifting in the morning (believe me, I need a whole lot of uplifting in the mornings). I apply it all over my face, and remove it with a warm face cloth ( no tissues or cotton wool, trust me, your face will thank you). I've never tried removing make up with it, but I have read that it will remove light make up. I have found that the red areas to my face are more calm since using this cleanser. I particularly like the simple, fuss-free packaging, and the fact that you can see how much product that you have left.
TONE: My first toning step is done with an exfoliating toner. I've just recently started using the REN Clarimatte Clarifying Toner. It contains a blend of AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), and Salicilin which act as chemical exfoliants, sloughing away dead skin cells. A build up of dead skin cells results in dullness, breakouts and larger looking pores (I don't want any of those, sometimes I don't appear to get a choice - thanks to lack of sleep, and hormones). I have seen a notable difference to my skin, since I started using this product, I find that it brightens my skin, and helps when I do get a spot (they linger for far less time than they used to). I apply this with a cotton pad, and sweep across my face, avoiding the eye area (personal preference). I follow up my exfoliating toner with a spritz of a hydrating toner. My current one is an oldie but a goodie, Clarins Toning Lotion with Chamomile. I find this very hydrating, and the fragrance is uplifting (if you don't like lemony scents, it's one to avoid). It softens and soothes, and due to it being alcohol free it's very gentle. My only complaint about this product is that it doesn't come in a spray bottle (not a major issue, I decant it into a small spray bottle).
EYE CREAM: I then gently apply my eye cream. I'm currently using the Chanel Hydra Beauty Gel Yeux. It's light, cooling and refreshing. it has a really delicate fragrance, very fresh, perfect for an eye cream. It claims to combat the signs of fatigue, dark circles and puffiness, and it's fair to say I have my fair share of those issues. I would say that I can see an improvement in the appearance of my under eye area, but I have no photographic evidence of this (wishing I had taken before and after pics). It is fairly expensive, but totally worth it.
SERUM: If I'm having an exceptionally dry day I will use my REN Vita Mineral Omega 3 Optimum Skin Serum Oil (what a mouthful, more on this one at a later date), but most days I opt for the REN Evercalm Anti-redness Serum. It is formulated for sensitive skin, and is meant to improve skin tone, and reduced hyperpigmentation. I suffer from red scarring from spots, and a little redness to my cheeks, and I would say that this is really helping matters (again, before and after pics would have been helpful, I will learn yet). The appearance and consistency of it is different to most serums that I've tried, but that doesn't put me up-nor-down. It's a white coloured fluid, and feels like a light lotion when applying it. It contains Hyaluronic acid, known for it's moisture boosting properties (it has been said that it can absorb up to 1000 times it's weight in water), and for keeping the skin plump. It occurs naturally in the body, but declines with age, hence why a little help is required as we get on in life.
Almost done, I promise..........
MOISTURISER: It's all about layering, and getting the best out of skincare products, so I then apply some moisturiser. I've recently made a re-discovery in the shape of Clarins HydraQuench Cream. I used it last year, but did my usual; got product envy when reading blogs, and started using something else. I'm so glad I started using it again. Like the Anti-redness serum, it contains Hyaluronic acid, and is a lovely cream that almost feels instantly hydrating. It smells great, very fresh, a perfect morning scent (in my opinion). It's almost cooling on application, and despite being a fairly thick cream, does not feel heavy on the skin. Although I like my creams to feel rich, I don't like to feel like they are sitting on my skin for hours after application.
And, finally (Phew)..........
SPF: I apply my SPF, I have been using the Clarins UV PLUS Day Screen High Protection over the past few weeks. It's very lightweight, which is great when you already have a number of layers of products under it. It is an oil free product, and sits nicely under make up. As sunscreen's go, it is very nice, and one that I will continue to use throughout the summer.
As I said at the start (that was a while ago, I know I know), this routine isn't rigid, and I'm always keen to try new products, so I would love to hear some product recommendations. I really hope that you enjoyed reading about my skincare routine. Please comment with any questions/tips/suggestions.
Thanks, Kirsty x
Disclaimer - All the products mentioned were purchased by me.
No comments:
Post a Comment