My Must-Have Skincare Products
With all of us spending a little more time at home these days, there’s no better time than now to perfect or develop your skincare regime. After attending a number of conferences this past month and getting tons of skincare products in my swag bags, I decided it was time to figure out what works and what doesn’t. I already had a pretty solid skincare routine, but added a few new steps and products , including this new Soniclear Cleansing Brush, gifted to me by Michael Todd Beauty, available at Ulta. Not only did it include a cleansing brush that also helps with exfoliation, it also came a sonic infuser head that assists with getting the most out of your serums and creams.
After testing out a number of products, I’ve finally found what works for me! My new skincare routine is combination of my tried and true staples, such as Kiehls’ Ultra Facial Cream and Urban Skin Rx’s Even Tone Cleansing Bar, with newcomers like the Bliss Vitamin C Serum and the Michael Todd Soniclear Cleansing Brush.
Makeup Wipes
I like to use these as a pre-cleanser to remove my makeup and any other dirt and oils from my face. Sometimes I use them as my first step even if I’m not wearing makeup, just to start out with a clean slate. My go-to makeup wipes: La Rose by Lauren Napier and Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes.
Cleanser
A good cleanser is the foundation of your skincare routine. When choosing a cleanser, make sure you find one suitable for your skin type, gentle and irritant-free! I’ve been using the Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar for the past 2 years and have seen great results. This brand is especially good for women of color.
Toner
This is not something you want to skip. I used to think that this wasn’t a necessary step until I realized that it not only removes any lingering oil or makeup residue, it also preps your skin for whatever products you want to put on next. My go-to toner is the Kiehl’s Cucumber Herbal Toner, which is both gentle, soothing, and alcohol-free (great for dry skin).
Exfoliator
Although this isn’t a daily, step in my skincare routine, it’s definitely a crucial one! I try to do this about twice a week to get rid of the dead skin, keep my pores clear, and make sure my skin isn’t looking dull. I recently started using the Dr.Brandt Microdermabrasion Exfoliator, one of my favorite conference gift bag finds.
Treatments
This is where all of my add-ons come in. I use a Vitamin C packed serum by Bliss, right before my moisturizer, that helps with anti-aging and brightening. For my evening routine, I use the Kiehl’s Creamy Eye treatment for my dark under-eye circles and the Laneige Lip Sleeping mask.
Moisturizer
This is last step and just important as the first. No matter what, you must keep your skin moisturized and hydrated! I’ve been using the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream for years and it has yet to fail me!
**ADD ON
SPF is key when protecting your skin in the sunlight. Make sure to apply it, after your moisturizer, during your morning routine! I use Unseen Sunscreen by Supergoop, which also happens to be water and sweat resistant for up to 40 minutes!
Now that I’ve shared my must-have products, what are some your favorite skincare products? Share in the comments below :)