My daily skincare routine (right now)
It’s been a while since I shared my product regimen, and apparently it’s working because I’ve been getting a lot of compliments. Here’s the lowdown…
MORNING
Ultraceuticals Ultra Balancing Gel Cleanser
I wrote a story about this Australian brand’s entry into the U.S. for Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) and the brand was gracious enough to send me a bunch of goodies. This is a great gentle cleanser that starts my skin’s day off on the right foot.
Foreo Luna Face Cleansing Device
In the morning, I use my Ultraceuticals cleanser with this handheld device for a circulation boost that wakes my skin up. I’ve had mine for more than 5 years, so this investment is built to last.
Biologique Recherche P50 1970
The hype is real, and even though this toner smells like crap, I’ll keep using it until the day I throw up my hands and concede defeat to the aging process.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
There’s a reason so many derms recommend this antioxidant. I’ve lost count of how many bottles I’ve blown through, and that’s fine because it’s beyond clinically proven to protect against environmental damage that leads to visible signs of aging while improving fine lines, wrinkles and overall radiance. I’ve seen the results for myself, and would hate to see what my skin would look like if it hadn’t been a long-standing staple in my routine.
Über Youth Neck & Chest Super Lift Serum-Spray
I’ve entered the dedicated neck-and-chest-treatment phase, and this is my go-to. Bring on the high-quality peptides and niacinamide (at a wallet-friendly price point).
NeoStrata Bionic Face Cream
They got me with “Bionic” and kept me with an insanely nourishing balm-like texture that leaves no greasy residue behind. This is the most “active” non-aggressive moisturizer I’ve ever used.
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
No explanation is really needed here, since this is the best tinted sunscreen I’ve ever used. Thanks to this product, I don’t need makeup most days.
EVENING
SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser
It’s a bit painful to spend $42 on a cleanser, but after trying less expensive alternatives I’m convinced it makes a difference. I only use the tiniest amount as the first step of my triple cleanse, so a tube lasts a relatively long time.
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
This is step two of my nightly cleanse, and I love how I can adjust the level of exfoliation by using more or less powder. A full-size bottle lasts for almost a year, so I consider it a smart investment.
Bioderma Sensibio
This seals the evening cleansing deal and ensures my face is free of any makeup, oil and product residue before I move on to my treatment step.
Tretinoin 0.1%
I skin cycle, so I only use this every third night. I can’t emphasize enough that this is the most potent prescription-based retinoid available, so DO NOT attempt to use it until your skin is conditioned. I get mine through Nurx because insurance doesn’t cover it and their price is right.
SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight
This is my night-two skin cycling treatment. If I was only allowed to take one skincare product to a desert island (other than sunscreen) this would be it. Get ready to say hello to fresh, smooth, radiant skin.
ROC Multi Correxion Hydrate + Plump Serum Capsules
I give my skin a break on night three with this hyaluronic acid. I’ve tried so many HA serums and this is by far my favorite. P.S. I wrote a CEW article about it, too.
SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2
I only have a few days’ worth of this magical cream left, and I’m beyond depressed. This moisturizer is key when you use a high-strength retinoid (and it’s been clinically proven to reduce the skin’s adjustment time).
P.S. I have to give credit to my incredible aesthetician Cheryl (@floridaskinchick). I’ve known her forever and after taking my son to her regularly for his puberty-related breakouts, I finally committed to seeing her every four to six weeks for myself.
Best. Decision. Ever. (And I have no idea why I waited this long.) So far, each appointment has included some extractions, getting rid of those pesky milia (the struggle is real) and a PCA Skin TCA peel. My skin gets peely three days after my appointment and it lasts for about five days, but this doesn’t really interfere with my relatively light social schedule. I love you, Cheryl!
Thanks to this product lineup and Cheryl’s expertise, my skin looks incredible as the big 4-7 approaches. I wouldn’t share anything that I don’t personally approve, and this regimen has been stellar for my skin.