Have you ever gone to bed with flawless makeup on after a night out and wake up to pimples and redness? There’s nothing worse! I’m sure you’ve all experienced this at least once in your life. A good skincare routine is something people often overlook. We invest 100’s dollars in good makeup products to help cover our blemishes; trying to make our skin it look fresh and dewy, but have you ever stopped to think about what makeup does to your skin over time? For starters, it doesn’t allow your skin to properly breathe and even slows down the process your skin’s regenerating process; this leads to having a dry and uneven skin tone. Wearing a foundation that is oil based can cause more acne since it clogs your pores. Let’s just say it’s a VERY bad idea! Your skin is extremely sensitive and taking better care, especially in your 20s, will benefit you in the long run.
Although many of these products below might not be under your budget, investing in good products will go a long way and last you a very long time. Listed below are some of the best skincare products tested by friends, family and myself; a makeup junkie with combination skin.
1. Cleanser – Neutrogena “Visibly Clear” 2 in 1 Face wash and mask
This face wash has been my saving grace for 6 years and there has definitely been a dramatic decrease in break outs. Although it might cause your skin to break out at first, what it’s really trying to do is get rid off all the impurities and clogged pores (Also, constantly changing your cleanser takes a while for your skin to adapt) . There’s some incredible reviews about this product online; I’ve even recommended this to a couple of friends and they’re in love with it!
Pai’s Camellia and Rose Gentle Hydrating cleanser $ 60.50
If you’re into the whole Vegan / All natural skin care regime, then I highly recommend using this. It’s very gentle on your skin and has two key ingredients that retain moisture and also act as a cleanser. Rose Oil, which revitalizes your skin and is really beneficial especially if you have dry skin and irritated skin. Winter is approaching and so using a cleanser that’s hydrating is very important.
2. Exfoliator – Clinique exfoliating scrub
While I was doing personal research for my skincare regime, I came across this product that is absolutely amazing if you have combination skin (Oily + dry in my case). It is water based and slightly abrasive so I wouldn’t recommend this to people while very sensitive skin. On the plus side, this product is water based, which is Ideal for people with oily skin.
3. Moisturizer – First Aid Beauty’s Ultra Repair Cream
HYDRATE! HYDRATE! HYDRATE! I can’t stress this enough, especially as winter is approaching. Dry and Flaky skin is a big no no, so what better than to use this heavenly intense hydrating cream from First Aid beauty. I’ve been using this for a while now and let’s just say that a pinch of this goes a long way. I love how it leaves your skin looking really dewy after you’re done.
Clinique’s dramatically different moisturizing lotion $27
If you’re looking for something less intense than this should be your go-to! It hydrates your skin and also slows down the process of fine wrinkle (or so I’ve heard). I’ve not tried this myself but I’ve heard some great reviews about it from my friends who have dry skin.
4. Toner – Pixi Glow Tonic $15
I highly recommend this to someone who’s afraid to use an abrasive exfoliant. A toner is also called a chemical exfoliant because it breaks down dead cells and leaves your skin looking brighter and more even toned. Pixi Glow tonic is perfect for first timers who haven’t used toner before! It’s not very intense, so it’s great for all skin types!
Lancôme’s Tonique confort with Acacia Honey $26
If you want something that’s even more gentle and has an amazing formula, ( honey and almond extracts) then this is the perfect product. It provides a natural glow without stripping your skin off it’s naturally oils. If you’re the kind of person that doesn’t like using moisturizer because you’re afraid it might leave your skin looking too oily then you should give this a try!
5. Lips scrub and balm – Lush’s Bubblegum Lip Scrub $ 10.50
Don’t forget about your lips! This is great to use before you apply a matte lipstick that leaves your lips looking cracked and flaky. I think it’s ideal for people who don’t like using harmful chemicals on their lips. Lush is natural and uses ingredients like sugars and essential oils. Also, it comes in different “flavors” like popcorn, mint, chocolate and honey! YUM!
Vaseline’s Lip Therapy Range $ 6.51
Lush also has their own range of lip balms but I’ve not given them a try. Vaseline’s lip therapy is amazing! it’s super hydrating and long lasting. I’ve been using this all summer and it’s better than most lip balms. It’s super affordable too and comes in a pack of two (available on Amazon).
6. Facial Wipes – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Facial Wipes
I went camping during the summer and decided to pick this up because my skin gets really gross after a couple of hours. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND! This is amazing for people with dry skin and also great for people who are too lazy to get off their bed to take their make up off, it acts as a cleanser but also as a moisturizer because it is so hydrating