Skincare: My Top-Shelf or Bottom Shelf? I Have Skincare in Too Many Spots but Here is My Updated Routine for Relatively Clear Skin

I try to keep my skincare routine pretty simple. I am acne-prone and my skin has become much dryer after I knocked down 30s door. My skin is also very reactive so I am usually discouraged from trying new products. I have, however, added 2 new products to my rotation to combat my hyperpigmentation and anti-aging concerns. Thankfully my skin hasn’t freaked out. Here are the products I have been enjoying:

Double Cleanse:

Juno and Co Clean 10 Cleansing Balm: I was late to the party with this one. I have been using this balm faithfully for the last year and love it. It is simple and effective at an attractive price point. 

Sur. Medic Azulene Soothing PH Cleanser: SokoGlam introduced this cleanser many years ago and it has been with me ever since. It soothes my sensitive skin and any active breakouts I have. The only downside is that it can be drying to the skin. Not a deal breaker for me.  

Toner:

Round Lab Mugwort Toner: I have been using this toner for years. It is so gentle and perfect for calming upset skin. It is hydrating to my very parched skin and absorbs very quickly. I can’t live without it.

(New Addition) Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner: I have used this product on and off for the last 2 weeks and I like it. I am happy my skin likes it as well. It is simple and hydrating. I wasn’t expecting it to have a thicker consistency which makes my skin feel extra supple. For all my dry-skin girlies with sensitive skin, this is a great option. 

Essence:

I’m From Mugwort Essence: My ride or die. This has changed my skin. It keeps my skin happy. Even when my skin decides to break out, this helps with the redness and irritation like no other. Hopefully, this product will never be discontinued. I would be heartbroken. 

Other Treatments:

Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Wine: I love these pads. They are easy to use and great for use once or twice a week. I don’t know if it’s just me, but I can’t use these pads all over my face. I can only use these on my cheeks and forehead. If I use these pads anywhere near my chin or mouth I break out. I don’t understand it. I still buy these though because they really help my pores and keep my skin uncongested but what is up with that? I wonder if anyone else experiences the same thing.

(New Addition) Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Drop: This is not my first run with this product but I decided to give it a second shot. I do like this stuff. I’m not sure if it beats the Glossier Super Pure that I used to buy, but it has been helping with my hyperpigmentation. I primarily use it in the AM a few times a week. My skin likes it so that’s good. 

(New Addition) Wishtrend Vitamin A-mazing Bakuchiol Night Cream: I have heard many positive things about retinol and how it is fantastic for its anti-aging benefits. I decided to give this a go because one of my favorite YouTubers recommended it. I haven’t used it too much but I have spot-tested it and my skin seemed fine. I like to use this once every week and try to build up 2 days a week. My skin is sensitive so what works best is to slowly get my skin used to the formulation. I will report back on this product because I did notice an improvement in my pores. 

Acne.Org Treatment (2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide): I have been using this treatment for years now. As I have mentioned, I have acne-prone skin and find that Benzoyl works best for me. In the past, I used it every day but now I only use it a few times a week so as to not interfere with the other products I use. 

Cream: 

Acne.Org Moisturizer: No-frills moisturizer. I love this stuff and have been using it for years. It keeps my skin smooth and hydrated. I like that I can layer this if need be for extra hydration. Happy skin when I use this. 

HaruHaru Wonder Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream: This cream has been my go-to. It keeps my eyes looking nice. It isn’t super brightening or anything, but it absorbs nicely and improves the look of the eye area. I like that it absorbs fast and completely. Also, this stuff never irritates my eyes. It has great ingredients and doesn’t break the bank. 

Other Stuff:

I usually invest in pimple patches to help with my acne. I don’t have any particulars but I do like The Klog Soft Shield Pimple Patch and Rael Beauty Pimple Patches (which are conveniently on Amazon). When my skin is feeling PARCHED, I sheet mask using the Benton Aloe Soothing Mask Pack which helps reset my skin. It is refreshing and doesn’t break me out or break the bank. 

Let me know if you have tried any of these products or if some of these products are included in your routine. OMG wait I forgot sunscreen…

The Live Tinted Hueguard 3-in-1 Mineral Sunscreen has been my holy grail since I found it. I have a dedicated review on it so I won’t elaborate but I had to mention it because we all should be wearing sunscreen! 

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