Good Morning, Good Morning! | My AM Winter Skincare Routine
When we last chatted, I said that my next blog post would be a skincare routine. Well, I’m a woman of my word, and here it is! I’m going to walk you through every product I use, why I use it, how much everything costs, and everything else I can think to include. I’m also going to send you to a great resource to help you determine your skin type if you don’t already know what it is or aren’t sure anymore. ALSO, if you are reading this and have not read the first post in this series, scroll to the very bottom and click the back arrow to “New Year, New Skin,” or click here. Reading that post first and addressing the things mentioned there will help your overall skincare routine go much smoother in the long run.
Alright, let’s get onto the routine. I decided to go ahead and make a video showing you my routine, but you’re going to want to watch it and read this post. I’m going to expand on what I talk about in the video and will send you in the direction of all the products.
So, go ahead and watch the video (it’s not short, sorry!), then keep scrolling to read my explanations.
Let’s start from the beginning…
MY SKIN TYPE
My baseline is normal to combination skin, depending on the season, that is acne-prone. I’m more normal in the winter and lean more combination in warmer weather. So, everything you are about to see, product wise, has been curated around that fact. That is not to say that the products I am using are only suitable for normal to dry skin, but I have specifically designed my routine to meet my skin needs, which is really the key to any routine: do what works best for your skin.
I figured out what kind of skin I had by washing my face and then doing nothing for 15-30 minutes. After that time passed, I looked to see how my skin reacted. If you want more information on determining your skin type and what each one “looks” like, check out this video.
THE STEPS
I mention this in my video, but there are five general core steps to any routine. These do not change, regardless of skin type, but how you approach each of these steps will look a little different depending on the skin you are working with and the issues you are addressing. Those steps are…
Cleanse
Exfoliate
Hydrate
Moisturize
SPF
Some of these steps might be combined or even eliminated at times. For example, if you decide you only want to cleanse your face after your shower and decide to use a washcloth to remove your cleanser, that is an act of exfoliation, and you may feel like your skin doesn’t need anything further. Or, you may have sensitive or sensitized (temporarily sensitive because of skin damage or harm) skin, so it may be in your best interest to forego exfoliation for the time being. So, know that, even though these steps are the foundation for any routine, nothing is hard and fast, and you should always be paying attention to your skin’s needs, ready to adapt at any point.
THE ROUTINE
My normal morning routine looks like this:
I wash my face in the shower using the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Cleanser, which is $14.99 for 13.5 fl oz (400ml). If you are not someone who shares my skin type, then this cleanser will probably be too drying for you (however, it is safe for sensitive skin), but I will have other product recommendations at the end of the post. If, at any point, you find your cleanser is making your skin tight (and it’s not branded to do so), stop using it. That means that your cleanser is too harsh and is stripping your skin of necessary moisture. Also, if you have dry or very sensitive skin, using a traditional cleanser to wash your face in the morning may not be necessary. Simply using warm water to remove any product, oil, and sweat from sleeping may be enough for you, so don’t be shy to play around and find what works for you.
I always exfoliate my skin after cleansing but before hydrating it. I want to make sure that all of the dead skin is removed and my skin is ready to absorb all of the products I’m about to use. The current exfoliator I like and am using is the Krave Beauty Kale-Lalu-yAHA, which is $25 for 6.76 fl oz (200ml). It uses 5.65% glycolic acid (an AHA or alpha hydroxy acid) to help remove any dead skin and impurities on your face. If you have sensitive skin, this may be too harsh for you, so be on the lookout for an exfoliant with PHAs, which are exfoliating but are better for sensitive skin.
What about scrubs and physical exfoliants? If you are wondering why I’m so in love with chemical exfoliants and there doesn’t seem to be a scrub insight, let me explain. I am, personally, not the hugest fan of physical exfoliants, especially when they are in the form of a cleanser, because I feel like they are set up to make you over-exfoliate. However, there are many highly qualified and well-trained skincare professionals out there who are major advocates of using them, but the key is to use them properly. My biggest beef with them, and why I almost always recommend and urge people to stay away from them, is because many of the products on the market are too harsh for your skin. They will scratch up your moisture barrier and do far more damage than good. BUT, there are good physical exfoliants out there and, when used correctly, will leave your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. In fact, the best way to use physical exfoliators is in addition to your chemical exfoliants. Chemical exfoliants are your main exfoliators and then, every few weeks, maybe while having a pamper night, use a gentle scrub while taking a bath. That way you are consistently removing the dead skin, but then have the occasional deep exfoliation to really allow your skin to reset. Anyway, if this is your preference of product or you want to add something to your pamper night arsenal, go to the very end of the post to see my recommendations for physical exfoliants.
NOTE: None of this is to say that I exfoliate every single day. Chemical exfoliants are powerful and, just like physical exfoliants, can be overused. Overuse of chemical exfoliants can cause moisture barrier problems and skin sensitivity, which has happened to me, so although I show you how to use the chemical exfoliant that I am currently enjoying and using, start slowly with them because not everyone’s skin can tolerate everyday use and that’s okay. However, the important takeaway is that, whether you exfoliate once a week or every day, this is the time to do it.
After exfoliating, I go in with my sprays and serums. If I want to use a spray toner, there are a few that I’ve tried, but the one I used in the video is the Grace & Stella Rose Water Spray, which will set you back $15.49 for 8 fl oz (240ml). I’d had that one for a good while and was pretty sure it had expired (yes, skincare products can expire), so I have since replaced it with the Heritage Store Rosewater Spray, which is a little over $5 cheaper at $10.29 for 8 fl oz (237ml). This step is not absolutely necessary, by any means. In fact, there are many skincare professionals who I’ve heard call all toners gimmicks. But, I like adding this step in, not because I’m expecting any miraculous outcome; rather, I like the way it smells, it feels refreshing, and it helps to make sure that my skin is damp before I go in with my serums, which increases their efficacy.
For serums, I don’t always use the same ones every day; sometimes, I will do three or four, while on other days, I only do one or two. It is all dependant on my mood, what I feel like my skin needs, and the kind of time I have. The two that I mentioned in the video were the NIOD Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Complex (which is $35 for 0.5 fl oz (15ml)) and the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum from The Ordinary (which is $5.90 for 1 fl oz (30ml)). They do two different things, so let me explain what that is.
Hyaluronic Acid can hold up 1000x its own weight in moisture, helping skin to be hydrated, look plump, and healthy. The serum that I listed - which is, funnily enough, actually reasonably price for a hyaluronic acid serum (there are ones out there that will set you back $300 for only 1oz, no joke) - is named a multi-molecular complex because there are different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid in it. That helps to increase its capabilities to help hydrate your skin. It is a fantastic ingredient and I always, at least, have that in my routine. However, if $35 feels a little steep for you, look in the product recommendations at the end; I have a different hyaluronic acid serum that I equally love, which is a fraction of the price.
Niacinamide. Oh, how I adore niacinamide. Interesting enough, this newly recognized ingredient has been around forever and has, probably, made an appearance in products you’ve used over the years without your even knowing. One of the many things that this wonderful ingredient does, which is really how it’s being marketed right now, is helping to control your skin’s sebum (the oil your skin naturally produces) production. So, for someone who is acne-prone, like me, this is the ingredient of your dreams, especially because it does so without drying out your skin! It helps balance out the sebum production, so your skin isn’t making more than it needs. But, it is not where it stops! Niacinamide also aids with skin congestion, reduces enlarged pores' appearance, and evens out skin texture. If any of the above are skin concerns you have, you need this fabulous ingredient in your life.
Another Great Ingredient for the Morning: Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an excellent ingredient to help brighten your skin, especially if you deal with dullness, and it helps boost collagen production, for those of you who are trying to fight the effects of aging. It, also, is an antioxidant that helps fight skin-damaging free radicals in the air; it’s the perfect buddy for your sunscreen. However, you do need to be careful with vitamin C because you can’t layer it with everything. With the exception of specific formulations, vitamin C and niacinamide do not play well together - they kind of cancel each other out, making it so that you don’t get the benefits of either product. So, if you want to use both, choose one to be one of your evening serums while the other is one of your morning serums or alternate days you use the products in the morning.
Now, onto moisturizer. Once I’ve spritzed my face, quickly applied a few drops of each serum to my face, I will then apply my moisturizer. You want to move fast because, remember, your products work best when the skin is damp. So don't dawdle! Anyway, the moisturizer I used in the video, which is genuinely one of the best moisturizers I’ve ever used (for my skin type), is the Krave Beauty Oat So Simple Water Cream, which is USD $28 for 2.7 fl oz (80ml). If your skin type is like mine and you don’t need a heavy-duty moisturizer to lock all the moisture into your skin, then look no further. However, as I mentioned in the video, if you have dry skin, I wouldn’t recommend using it as a moisturizer. If you feel like your skin is super dehydrated and feel like you could use this as an intense hydrating step, then you could try using it as a really thick serum. But, for those of you with dry skin, you are going to want something thicker and creamier to help keep your skin’s moisture level on point (look at the product recommendations at the end of the post, I’ve got you covered).
Last, but by no means least, I apply SPF. I say this in the video, and I’ve said this a million times to people over the years, everyone should wear sunscreen. Regardless of age and skin tone, every single person on the planet should be wearing sunscreen. If you have a darker complexion and don’t believe me, please click here and allow two skincare professionals to change your mind. Listen, I know that sunscreen can be a pain and, by no means, are all of them created equal. Everyone has different complaints: some SPFs leave a white cast, others are too thick and make you greasy, others make you break out. Trust me; I completely get it. But, the woes of wearing sunscreen do not simply fall on the shoulders of pale, redheaded folks like me. We all need it in our everyday routines if we want to slow down the effects of aging and reduce the chance of skin discoloration (if the threat of skin cancer is not enough for you).
Anyway, let me tell you about the fabulous product I used in the video. Krave Beauty’s The Beet Shield ($20 for 1.67 fl oz (50ml)) is one of the best facial sunscreens I have ever used. Full stop. I have tried so many over the years, and I have, sadly, been disappointed far more than I’ve been pleased. But, thankfully, this product falls into the “Super Pleased” column. Although it can’t be marketed as a sunscreen in the U.S. (watch the video to hear why; it’s not sketchy, I promise), it is technically an SPF 50 sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white cast, doesn’t leave my face greasy, and doesn’t feel like I’m applying glue to my face (which some sunscreens do). It doesn’t irritate my eyes when it gets wet (it is a staple in my pool and beach bag in the summer) and is, all around, one of the best facial sunscreens. After filming the video, I had to get rid of my bottle because it had expired. Still, once I’m done using the one I currently have (the Advanced Day Total Protect by Medik8, $72 for 1.7 fl oz (50ml) - I got it in a skincare kit, don’t judge me), I will absolutely be repurchasing it.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Skincare is extremely personal. What works for me may not work for you, and that’s perfectly okay. It took a lot of trial and error to get the routine I have now in a good place. I’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way, and I’m by no means perfect. But, I’ve also learned a lot along the way and am really happy with the products I’m currently using. So, if you take nothing else from this post, I hope you at least get some inspiration and direction on where to begin. Please pay attention to your skin and what it needs. You will learn a lot by simply doing that. Also, you don’t have to break the bank to have a great skincare routine. Start small with the basics and build from there. You only have one face and you’re stuck with it for life, so why not take care of it? You won’t regret it, I promise.
Also, please note that, if you decide to make a drastic change in your skincare and start a really wonderful routine, you will start seeing results pretty quickly. However, don’t be surprised if it takes a while for any of your active ingredients (the ingredients in your serums) to really make a noticeable difference. These things take time and, even though your skin will almost immediately be much happier when you start implementing a regimen that it likes, not everything is quite so fast. So, be patient. These things take time.
You can do this! I have faith in you!
OTHER PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
In the video, I said I wouldn’t recommend higher-end products, but I decided to include them anyway if I truly felt that they were products worth their price point. But, I also included items with as low a price point as possible while still being a quality product. If there are products that you’ve tried, enjoyed, and don’t see on the list, please leave them in the comments so that we can all learn from each other.
Cleansers
For All Skin Types
Tula Skincare The Cult Classic Purifying Face Cleanser ($28 for 6.7 fl oz (200ml)): Putting probiotics in skincare has been one of the major trends over the last few years and Tula Skincare is doing it in such a way that won’t leave you broke at the end. I tried this cleanser a couple of years ago and enjoyed it. I’m constantly trying new cleansers, so I haven’t repurchased it, but if you are looking for a water-based, simple, gentle cleanser that you can use year-round, regardless of what your skin is doing, look no further.
fresh Soy Face Cleanser ($38 for 5.1 fl oz (150ml)): this is one of my go-to gel cleansers. It’s gentle, straight forward, and smells nice. Although it isn’t a product I am constantly repurchasing, I do find myself returning to it often. Also, for those who aren’t sure what they want, but are equally unsure about the idea of an oil-based cleanser, this is the cleanser for you.
Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel ($67 for 100ml): this is technically classified as a product for dry skin, but in reality, I think anyone can use this. It is one of my all-time favorite cleansers; I have used this as my morning cleanser and I’ve used it as my first cleanse at night (more about that in my nighttime routine). It’s a gel to oil cleanser that will leave your skin feeling refreshed, but not stripped. It’s quite pricey, I know, but it is one of the few products out there that I genuinely think is worth the splurge.
For Dry Skin Types
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser ($13.49 for 8 fl oz (237ml)): This is marketed for normal to dry skin. CeraVe’s cleansers are gentle and kind to the skin, as well as constantly recommended by dermatologists. A winner that won’t break the bank.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser ($14.99 for 13.52 fl oz (400ml)): This is the dry skin counterpart to the cleanser that I used in my routine and is intended for normal to dry skin types. I love this brand and have been impressed by everything I’ve ever tried. Definitely a great option.
For Normal, Combination, & Oily Skin Types
Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel ($14 for 8oz (236 ml)): this is designed for acne-prone skin, which although that is not strictly a problem that only afflicts people with normal to oily skin, it is more likely that you will have one of those issues if your skin type falls in one of those categories. This is one of my favorite cleansers; it’s not drying or stripping, but it cleanses your face well. Also, it has the feel of a cleanser that is triple the price. A solid choice for those on the market.
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser ($14.99 for 12oz (355ml)): As I said for the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, this brand is inexpensive and well-loved by dermatologists. This cleanser will gently leave your skin clean without stripping it: what else can you ask for at this price point?
Exfoliants
Chemical Exfoliants
Pixi by Petra Glow Tonic ($15 for 3.4 fl oz (100ml) or $29 for 8.45 fl oz (250ml)): I have been using this product for years, it is one of my tried-and-true favorites. In fact, I only recently stopped using it to try the exfoliator I’m currently using. I won’t lie though, it isn’t cheap; paying that $15 for what is, in essence, a travel-sized bottle seems ridiculous. But, it is genuinely worth it, especially since if you use it appropriately, you should have it for a while. But, if you are on the market for a chemical exfoliant that is readily available, this is for you!
Bliss That’s Incredi-peel Glycolic Resurfacing Pads ($21.99 per 15ct): I first tried these when I was living out of a suitcase for a little bit and they are a really great option, especially for those of you that travel. All you have to pack are the packets and you’re set. However, in my opinion, they are quite potent (more potent than the other options on this list), so be sure to follow the instructions on the package regarding how frequently to use them.
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Daily Peel for Sensitive Skin ($88 per 35 ct): just like the Bliss pads, these are great for travel. However, they are quite a splurge. I tried these because they came in a seasonal skincare kit I got this past Spring and I really enjoyed them. They are extremely effective while being quite gentle, which is a fabulous combination for any type of chemical exfoliator. So, if you are dying to splash some cash on such an item, these are a great choice, especially for the person who is traveling quite often.
Physical Exfoliants
Olay Regenerist Whip Polishing Crème Cleaner ($6.99 for 5 fl oz (150 ml)): This is a very budget-friendly option for those of you wanting the two-in-one option of a cleanser and exfoliator. Now, I would still recommend this not be your everyday morning cleaner, but definitely not a bad product to have in your shower or on your vanity for the days you need to exfoliate.
Tatcha The Rice Foaming Enzyme Powder ($65 for 2.1oz (60g)): This is an exfoliating cleanser that is gentle and is non-abrasive, so you get all the great exfoliation without it creating micro-tears in your moisture barrier. Yes, it’s on the pricey side, but it is a really nice product if you are willing to spend the money.
Serums
Hyaluronic Acid
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 ($6.80 for 1 fl oz (30ml)): I told you I had a great hyaluronic acid serum recommendation that is both extremely affordable and very effective. This is my go-to, both because it does what it’s supposed to and is so easy on my wallet. It’s perfect for people who are afraid to spend too much on a product they may not like, while also great for people who know exactly what they are looking for but don’t want to sell a kidney to do it.
Naturium Quadruple Hyaluronic Acid Serum 5% ($16 for 1 fl oz (30ml)): Now, I fully understand that everything after the serum by The Ordinary is going to seem expensive, but for those of you who are looking for a multi-molecular hyaluronic acid experience, something closer to the one that I mentioned in my morning routine, then this is for you and it’s half the price of what the NIOD serum is worth. A great bargain for a serum that works and for an ingredient that can be so expensive.
Niacinamide
Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2% ($16 for 1 fl oz (30ml)): This is one of the flagship products of this brand and, for those whose skin can handle 12% Niacinamide, this serum will make you very happy. Again, not a price that will break the bank, all while packing a very premium punch.
Vitamin C
The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% ($12.90 for 1 fl oz (30ml)): This is the Vitamin C serum that I have and I quite like it. It’s made from a Vitamin C derivative, which makes it extra stable. But, if I’m being honest, I haven’t been using it long enough to really say that my skin looks so much brighter. And since I’m only 27, I can’t tell if my collagen production has increased. However, it is definitely a budget-friendly option for those of you looking to add Vitamin C to your skin regimen.
Moisturizers
For All Skin Types
St. Ives Renewing Moisturizer ($5.94 for 10z (283 g)): This is one of the first moisturizers I ever used when I really started taking my skincare seriously. I was blown away by how nice it was to use and how much you got for $6. I repurchased it again last year and still felt the same way. It’s excellent value for money and a wonderful moisturizer for those who are skincare novices.
For Dry Skin
Naturium Plant Ceramide Rich Moisture Cream ($25 for 1.7oz (50g)): This moisturizer is kind of amazing; it’s very thick and creamy, so for those of you who have dry skin this is a dream product, but it’s also not so heavy that people with combination skin couldn’t use when they are having drier skin moments. A little goes a long way, but you can go hard if you need to. A really nice product and at a reasonable price point.
SPF
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Light Face Sunscreen-SPF 60 ($29.99 for 1.7oz (50ml)): I was first introduced to La Roche-Posay as a brand because of this product. I loved it when I first tried it and I love it now. I really love this high SPF factor it has. I really, really love that it doesn’t make me greasy. And I adore that it doesn’t have that weird texture that some sunscreens have. It lays well under makeup and performs well at the beach. All-in-all an excellent product. Sadly, it’s not exactly a Coppertone price, but if you are of the same philosophy as I am that sometimes you truly do get what you pay for, then it is worth the price.
Alright, I think I can confidently say “that’s all” and I will talk with y’all next time.
Blessings,
Sarah
