Skin Edition: Always, Sometimes, Never Guide

In the ever-evolving world of skincare, it often feels like there’s an endless parade of new and innovative products and techniques vying for our attention. As much as I enjoy experimenting with these trends, there are several fundamental practices that have consistently worked well for my skin over time. Below, I’ll share my personal skincare routine, detailing what I religiously incorporate into my regimen and what I occasionally indulge in, along with the reasons behind my choices!

Essential Daily Skincare Practices:

One crucial aspect of my evening routine is to wash my face before bed. I find that using wrist scrunchies is a clever trick to prevent water from running down my arms, keeping the process tidy! This simple yet effective habit helps remove dirt, makeup, and impurities accumulated throughout the day, ensuring my skin stays clean and ready for overnight regeneration.

In the morning, I prioritize moisturizing my skin after cleansing. For several months now, I’ve been using Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench, a lightweight yet hydrating formula that leaves my skin feeling supple and refreshed. This step is crucial for maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier and preparing it for the day ahead.

Another vital component of my morning routine is the application of SPF. I’ve found that Kosas Dreambeam or EltaMD provide excellent protection against harmful UV rays while keeping my skin hydrated. Daily sun protection is essential in preventing premature aging and maintaining an even skin tone, making it a non-negotiable part of my skincare strategy.

During my showers, I ensure to wash my body thoroughly. This not only refreshes my skin but also helps me feel rejuvenated and clean, enhancing my overall well-being.

Before I drift off to sleep, I make it a point to apply a lip mask. My go-to is the Laneige Lip Mask, which provides intense hydration and prevents my lips from drying out overnight, ensuring they remain soft and plump.

Occasional Treats for My Skin:

On some days, I indulge in exfoliation using a gritty exfoliator. One of my favorites is the one by No7, which offers just the right amount of grit to effectively slough off dead skin cells without causing irritation. This occasional treatment helps rejuvenate my complexion and maintain a smooth texture, making my skin glow.

I also enjoy applying body lotion from time to time. I alternate between Kate McLeod Body Stone, Lux Unfiltered Santal Body Lotion (which is not a tanning lotion), and Ouai St. Barths. Each of these products offers unique benefits, enriching my skin with hydration and a delightful fragrance.

Eye masks are another treat I sometimes use, with Wander Beauty being my preferred brand. They provide a refreshing boost to my under-eye area, combating fatigue and puffiness that can accumulate from a busy lifestyle.

Additionally, I love to apply a face mask on occasion, with The Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask by Fresh being my all-time favorite. This luxurious mask helps to hydrate and revitalize my skin, providing an instant boost of radiance that I adore.

While I tend to forget to use eye cream, I do keep the Bobbi Brown Eye Base on my makeup vanity as a reminder. I just need to place it in my makeup bag for easy access, as this product is essential for maintaining the delicate skin around my eyes.

When it comes to achieving a sun-kissed glow, I occasionally apply self-tanner to my body. For recommendations and tips, check out my dedicated post on this topic!

I also make sure to exfoliate my body in the shower, and I’ve recently added Tree Hut Shave Oil and their body scrub to my routine, which has significantly improved the softness and smoothness of my skin.

Practices I Avoid for Healthy Skin:

There are certain skincare practices I steer clear of, such as dermaplaning. I find that it leaves my skin feeling uncomfortable and often leads to tiny breakouts afterward, which I prefer to avoid.

Another step I never incorporate into my routine is toner. This omission is primarily because I’ve never fully committed to using it consistently, and I’ve found that my skin doesn’t miss it.

I also avoid intense facial procedures. As I age, my sensitive skin seems to react more dramatically, making me hesitant about treatments that could exacerbate these issues.

Regarding Botox and injections, I remain neutral. However, I have never pursued these options up to this point, as I prefer to explore natural methods for maintaining my youthful appearance.

Lastly, I choose not to apply self-tanner on my face. Instead, I rely on bronzing drops or bronzer during my makeup routine to achieve a healthy glow without the potential risks associated with facial tanning products.