I've been asked A LOT about my skin care routine.. Mainly because a lot of people, like me, have super oily skin and it's a pain to deal with. All extreme skin-types are difficult tho, whether it be super dry or the opposite. I have been to A LOT of estheticians and have had a lot of appointments with my dermatologist and through many medications to help acne, nothing has really been as important as diet and skin care, as cliche and crazy as that may sound. I can't drink excessive caffeine, so things like energy drinks are a no-go, although I will have my morning coffee and maybe another cup from time to time, I really watch my caffeine intake and can totally tell a difference if I go a little crazy for a few days. Don't get me wrong, I do have occasional breakouts regardless but nothing like I used to! My skin is not perfect by any means, but I have learned some tricks to help accompany me along the way - even though it may be a little maintenance from time to time ;)
I've mentioned, probably a million times, that my skin is REALLY sensitive so when I find products or brands that work, I stick to them. I don't tend to venture into a million skin care products because I could wash my face with a new product just once and it's all over. I think that also helps.. Stay with what you KNOW works. Don't listen to me if you're happy with your skin! That's super important to remember BUT if you're desperate to try and tone down the oil or breakouts, then maybe my routine will become yours :)
So here's what I use:
Acure Brightening facial scrub from Target and Acure Sensitive facial cleanser from Whole Foods or Amazon. These two are amazing! I can't live without them. I use the exfoliator when I don't want to use my Clarisonic Mia 2. No real reason other than I don't want to take the time but need to exfoliate. I use the Mia 2 every single night, sometimes in the morning as well! It has changed my skin completely. Totally worth the price!!
I love argan oil - I prefer Josie Maran but have tried others and have loved them all!
Acure eye cream from Target is amazing.
Mario Badescue Repair Collagen cream is the perfect mask! A little bit goes a long way and doesn't dry my skin out AND it helps clear acne, so sometimes I use it as a spot-treatment.
And for a toner, I've always loved using plain Witch Hazel. This one is Lavender scented, but I also use the original and both work so well. Just apply a little to a cotton pad and I'm good to go.
Here's a time for a small secret: I actually use Target brand eye makeup remover with the oil but I pour it in this MAC bottle because I really love the non-leaking top it comes with!! Plus, you have to push down, like a medicine bottle, to get the top off - HUGE plus while traveling and with having a little one that's getting into everything. One less thing I have to worry about ending up all over my floor ;) I used the original formula from MAC but didn't feel that it was any better than what I get at the drug store, again, the only plus is the bottle itself!
I also use the Josie Maran illuminating argan cream or Josie Maran MILK before I apply my makeup... I use the dark bottle of argan oil at night or during the day when my face is unusually dry during the winter months.
Here's the thing with oily skin that I learned that has worked so well: I CANNOT use ANYTHING that has Salicylic Acid in it. I ONLY use cleansers. This is because with my skin, I am naturally oily so therefore anything that strips that, makes my face go CRAZY. I use products that are gentle and I firmly believe that pairing natural oil, such as argan oil, actually helps my skin produce less oil. This is because my skin NEEDS oil. Some people don't need as much oil, hence why their face may breakout with the use of argan oil or why salicylic acid may work really well for them. Only time will tell, of course, so if you're wondering if this method will work for you but don't want to waste the money on an expensive oil, buy from amazon. You'll get the same effect. I recommend one with a dark bottle, to protect the pure oil and of course, all natural/organic, like this one HERE. Take 4-6 weeks for your skin to adjust, especially if you've been using a product that has striped the oil from your skin.
PLEASE email or post below with any/all questions you may have, I can only hope that this post helps some of y'all out with your skin if you've come across the same troubles as I have! XO
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