If you're like me, you've had some problems with oily skin and blemishes, some that might have left a few scars... physical and emotional!When I got my first facial, I also got a lesson in skin care that I've really taken to heart. While I do recommend a product like ProActiv
for moderate acne (it worked wonders for me, and many others I know!), a good skin care routine can help you maintain healthy, bright skin.And it doesn't have to cost you a ton of money. I used to buy into the pricey products (I still have a weakness for Estee Lauder's Idealist
), now I use a simple four-product combo that has really made me a happy camper!
My Routine...
(1) Daily Cleanser: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser ($14). It comes in a HUGE pump bottle (you won't buy this often!), and it sits right on my sink. This is my morning and evening face wash, when I don't use my exfoliator. Use cold water so that your pores don't open up!
(2) Astringent: Witch Hazel (~$3). Just buy it generic at your drugstore, put it on a cotton pad, and spread on your face. I should do this daily, but I usually only get around to it every few days.
(3) Exfoliator: St. Ive's Sensitive Skin Apricot Scrub ($4). I leave this in the shower, and use it instead almost daily instead of my Cetaphil so I can slough off that dead skin! It's their 'gentle' formula, so I don't have to worry about it being too harsh. I love this, and it's so affordable!
(4) Daily Moisturizer: Eucerin Everyday Protection w/SPF 30 ($9). This sensitive-skin face lotion is my daily moisturizer and sunscreen in one! If my face is raw and dry, it's the only thing that doesn't make it sting and burn. I love it, and the scent is mild, like sunscreen. I discovered it at a drugstore, and now I won't buy anything else.The grand total for all of these products? I spent $30. That's it! HALF the price of even a little bottle of an expensive department store bottle of anything.
I still have my occasional hormonal breakout, but I really think this has improved the way my face looks, and it gives me a great blank slate to work with when I'm applying makeup (always start with primer, like the Smashbox Photo Finish one I use
!)What's your skin care routine?
I just started using Cetaphil and I love it!! I continue to use Proactiv to clear off dead skin, and I'm a big fan of Biore pore strips.
ReplyDeleteCetaphil is GREAT! And that huge bottle isn't too expensive, either! I definitely loved Proactiv, but ended up with so much product (even after changing shipping patterns) that I just cancelled it and moved on.
ReplyDeleteI am going to have to give Biore pore strips another try; I didn't have a lot of success a few years back, but I'm trying to find a good solution for blackheads!