The Correct Order to Apply Your Skincare Routine: A Step-By-Step Guide
“Be good to your skin. You’ll wear it every day for the rest of your life.”
I love this quote by sought-after skin care expert and aesthetician Renee Rouleau. As you probably know by now, I am slightly obsessed with skincare and I honestly believe your skincare routine is a bank account which needs to be invested in wisely.
There are so many reasons why a good skincare routine is important for maintaining healthy and glowing skin, most notably preventing and treating various annoying skin conditions - hello acne, dryness, and fine lines.
A routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, and protecting from sun damage can also improve the overall appearance and texture of your skin. In addition, a consistent skincare routine can help your skin better retain moisture and reduce the signs of aging.
One of the most regular questions I get surrounding skincare, is the correct order in which to apply your skincare routine. It’s often a minefield and different people have a million different opinions. During my time in the industry – as well as trialing, testing and perfecting my own daily routine – I am fairly confident that I’ve (almost) perfected it. And I say almost because let’s face it, nobody has it all figured out.
“Does skincare routine order matter?” I hear you ask. In short: absolutely. It determines how well your products are absorbed into your skin and hence how well they get to work.
(Un)Fortunately, the simple three step cleanse, tone, moisturise is a thing of the past. We are now adorned by an overwhelming amount of skincare products. With many having random, confusing names, no wonder this is my most requested post! So, I'm going to try and make this as straight forward as possible. And yep, while there are quite a few steps, and you don't have to do them all as this just may not be realistic for you and I totally get that. But remember, you only have one face people, so it's worth looking after it.
Ps: I have a 20% code at Cult Beauty incase you want to use it. We have linked products they sell there within the post. The code is LISACB.
THE BASIC ORDER
MORNING
Single cleanse
Hydration spray
Hyaluronic acid
Eye cream
Serums
Moisturise
Oils (if needed)
SPF
Lip balm
EVENING
Double cleanse
Exfoliate
Hyaluronic acid
Eye Cream
Night treatment serum or retinoid
Night cream
Lip balm
Body cream (adding this here as a reminder. Keep it by your bed)
In terms of products, I mix and match a lot. Mainly because I love to try all the wonderful ones I'm lucky enough to get sent. So those that I mention are the ones I'm into right now. This will probably change over time, as I discover more beauties. As an FYI, a lot of these products aren't cheap but as mentioned earlier, I truly believe it's worth investing in your skincare.
I’ve also noted when a product is in my professional makeup kit. This doesn’t necessarily mean this is the product I personally use. But it does mean it’s a product that I know I can rely on.
Without further ado, let’s get stuck in….
MORNING
Your morning routine should be slightly different to your evening one. Your skin rejuvenates at night. When you're dreaming, your skin tries to repair daytime damage. The morning is all about prepping your skin for the day ahead. Following these steps will also help to prep your skin for makeup. The better its prepped, the more flawless your makeup will look.
EVENING
As mentioned above, there are a few changes in your ideal routine for the evening. Adding these in with help repair your skin and make it the best version of itself. I’ve listed the steps below but have highlighted when the step is an evening one.
Cleansing (single cleanse in day, double cleanse in the evening)
This is your starting point. Cleansing your skin does exactly what it says on the tin: it cleans it! And if you follow the skincare OG that is Caroline Hirons, you'll know that double cleansing is the only way forward in the evening. As is the use of flannels. You'll see no wipes here, people!
· The first cleanse removes your makeup and any dirt from the skin.
· The second cleanse deep cleans the skin.
· The flannel helps with the process as it gives your skin a gentle exfoliation.
The double cleanse is only part of your evening routine as this is the way you’ll be removing a day’s worth of makeup and grime. The single cleanse in the morning is sufficient as you’ll only be removing any sleep sweat or dream dust. Unless, of course, you’ve got in after a night out and not removed your makeup, then you can double cleanse to help remove those panda eyes. And never admit that to me – sleeping in makeup is a major no-no!
In the evening I tend to use two types of cleansers. An oil based one to remove any makeup, and a gel or a cream version to deep clean. I just find this works best for me. I'm also such a product addict, that the more I can use the merrier! And I always, always, use ice cold water when cleansing. Not only is this invigorating, it also helps to close the pores and cool the skin. In the morning I tend to use the gel or the cream, but the ice-cold water trick stays put. Think of it as an extra shot of morning coffee.
My faves at the moment
Oil based
Elemis - Pro Collagen Cleanser £46.99 (in my pro kit)
This is an icon. I've used it forever and the rose version is dreamy. The original is also beautiful if you prefer a spa-like scent. It melts off even the toughest of makeup. Even Benefit's Bad gal bang becomes victim to this baby. It's infused with nourishing Elderberry, Starflower and Optimega™ oils and supercharged with hydrating Mediterranean algae, Padina Pavonica. Sounds amazing, right? It is!
Boy, this is luxurious. I pretty much love everything by Tatcha. I’m so happy they’ve finally made it to the UK. This baby literally melts away your makeup and it leaves your skin soft and nourished. There’s a reason it has over 1500 five-star reviews.
I love pretty much everything Medik8 make, and this cleanser is no exception. It removes all traces of makeup whilst reinforcing and replenishing skin’s natural defence barrier with essential lipids. The ultra-gentle oil cleanser is applied to dry skin and the silky, cashmere textured oil melts into skin to dissolve impurities and waterproof make-up.
If you prefer a liquid oil cleanser, this new line up from MAC is great. It’s one of those products that I didn’t expect to love but actually really do. It removes everything. It does leave a slight oil residue but that doesn’t bother me as I always use it as a first cleanse and, in fact, the oil leaves my skin feeling soft.
Non-oil based
This is such a brilliant, affordable cleanser. It’s a gentle formula which makes it suitable for all skin types. It’s powered by an essential blend of hyaluronic and ceramides which help protect against dryness.
Firstly, this smells amazing! Imagine the picturesque streets of Seville, lined with orange trees. It has an amazing gel creme formula made from fruit water and PHA. (This stands for Poly Hydroxy Acids which are a group of acids that work their magic slowly, which is great for sensitive skin that is prone to irritation and redness). Your skin feels invigorated after you use it. It also removes makeup brilliantly.
This beauty is a hydrating and nourishing facial wash resembling the light texture of marshmallow. Don't try eating it though – trust me on that ;) It's enriched with a natural super antioxidant blend of Goji berries, Acai berries and Oat Silk. I get a bit of Rosacea and love using this when my cheeks are slightly red as it's also anti-inflammatory.
I've used this cleanser for years. I love Fresh products, and this gel formula is gorgeous. It’s PH-balanced and infused with soy protein to help maintain elasticity to the skin. It's also great at removing makeup.
Lancome - Bi-Facil Non-Oily Instant Cleanser £25 (in my pro kit)
This is brilliant for sensitive eyes. It also removes all makeup and impurities. It’s a constant in my kit.
Revolution x - Sali Hughes Cleansing Butterclean Makeup Melt Down Cleansing Balm £15
A really lovely, affordable balm. When fused with water, the rich and creamy balm transforms into a delicate and hydrating cleansing milk which removes all impurities whilst leaving your skin feeling soft and hydrated.
Hydration spray
Day and Night
Spritzing your face with a hydration spray every morning is almost as good as going for an invigorating, early-morning dip in the lake. It wakes you up for sure, especially if you keep yours in the fridge like I do. My actual fridge btw – I’m not into those skincare fridges, I’d prefer a champagne one over this. Obviously!
The order of this step is actually really important. Hyaluronic acids, (your next step), takes moisture from the environment it's on. So this step actually supports your HA and helps it work its magic. Most sprays also have some added elements which is a bonus.
These are my faves:
I have a slight obsession with this as it really does leave your skin feeling moisturised. The mist is super fine and doesn’t leave your skin feeling drenched, which is always a bonus. The tiny refined micro-Ceramide particles penetrate deeply into the skin to effectively improve the skins moisture level.
This is brilliant if you suffer from sensitive or irritated skin. Almost good enough to drink, this skin-friendly mist is uniquely formulated with La Roche-Posay’s very own ‘Thermal Spring Water’ sourced from France and naturally rich in selenium to offer protection from damaging free radicals
Omorovicza - Queen of Hungary mist £22 (in my pro kit)
Oh, this is a real treat. I adore this mist and it’s in my kit. Legend has it that the water was ‘created’ as a beauty treatment for Queen Elizabeth of Hungary which was so successful that it led to the King (aged just 25 years) to propose marriage when she was nearing the end of her life. Sounds good right?! Starring Hungary’s mineral-rich thermal waters (the earth’s crust is thinner there, which is why the waters are jam-packed with skin-beneficial elements), this mist delivers these precious waters’ magical, healing properties to your skin’s lowest levels, where the minerals kick-start repair and stimulate regeneration.
This is a relatively new brand from the creator of the fabulous Tan Luxe. The mist is infused with a unique blend of barrier boosting tri-ceramide complexes, and combined with the powerful duo of allantoin and probiotic ferment, your skin is left feeling renewed and all-the-more moisturised.
I have loved this product for forever. I’ve spent hours in the Covent Garden boutique. Neal’s Yard is such a gorgeous company with an amazing team. This mist smells divine – almost like the perfect spa. Plus it hydrates whilst adding the antioxidant benefits of white tea. Dreamy.
Exfoliation (night only)
Gone are the days of the rough exfoliator that literally scrubs at your skin. Many of these had plastic beads in, which are now thankfully illegal. I much prefer a liquid exfoliator. These contain the holy grail, glycolic acid and an alpha-hydroxy which help in the removal of dead skin cells. I use these at night, firstly because they can tingle a bit and, if like me, you have a bit of rosacea, this can bring it out slightly. This isn't doing the skin any harm. I'd just prefer that to happen at night. Secondly, they remove the dead cells meaning that all your other products can really get to work at night. The best way to apply is to soak a cotton pad with the product and glide over the face and neck.
This is a global best-seller for the brand for a reason. The gentle, lightweight fluid quickly exfoliates dead skin cells both on the surface and deep inside pores to reveal smoother, clearer, more radiant-looking skin. BHA (salicylic acid) has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to reduce blackheads, blemishes and redness.
This is an amazing and powerful product. I love Murad - the stuff truly works. My skin has more of a glow since I added this into my routine. I've taken this scientific bit from the website to explain why it's so great:
The fortifying blend of complex acids, combining to resurface lacklustre skin. AHA fuses Glycolic and Lactic acid, two gentle exfoliants that lift dead skin cells to reveal a smoother skin texture and a brighter, natural-looking radiance. BHA calms and cleanses to unclog congested pores. TXA fights discolouration, promoting a brighter and more even skin tone. Invigorating and effective, the three components unite to encourage a supple, younger-looking visage.
Phase 2 sees Holy Basil, a natural plant-based product high in antioxidants, merge with Omega-rich Oils to purge and purify while strengthening the skin’s natural barrier. Harnessing acne-fighting properties, the two ingredients help to soothe blemishes and revive stressed complexions.
This is ideal for addressing dullness, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, congestion, dryness and even fine lines, the formula features gentle yet powerful lactic acid and willow bark extract, which work together to reduce cohesion between dead, dulling cells, triggering skin’s natural resurfacing process. Gently exfoliating, unclogging pores and promoting cell renewal, this luscious liquid uncovers beautifully balanced radiance. I find this also works well with sensitive skin which is why it’s always in my kit.
When I first received this, I had high hopes for such a premium brand. And my hopes were fulfilled. This is a superb liquid exfoliant. Combining the replenishing results provided by the iconic La Mer Miracle Broth with ultra-gentle yet effective skin-friendly acids
La Mer’s multi-faceted exfoliating treatment was created to give dull skins a new lease of life. A blend of replenishing Miracle Broth, AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs ensure your skin is continuously resurfaced: bringing about a clearer and smoother appearance over time.
From clarifying congestion and balancing oil to reducing the appearance of dark spots and encouraging natural cell turnover this treatment does it all. It is gentle enough to use on sensitive skin and obvs it looks very nice in your bathroom cabinet.
QMS Medicosmetics - Active Exfoliant 7% Resurfacing Fluid £78
Some of my best facials have been with QMS at Liberty. I highly recommend them. And their products are brilliant. This exfoliant is formulated with 7% AHAs at pH 3.5. meaning that it is suitable for sensitive skin types. The gentle, yet effective exfoliator provides a mild peeling-effect that helps to banish dead skin cells. Thanks to a blend of fruit acids and enzymes, the exfoliator helps to reduce congestion, dullness and the appearance of uneven textures, to leave your complexion smoother-looking and glowing. The skin is left optimised for the absorption of serums and creams to maximise absorption and efficacy.
Whind is a lovely brand with its roots in Morocco. This serum delivers smooth, clear and glowy skin and is gentle enough for everyday use, but still offers noticeable results. It supports – not strips – the skin barrier, while also helping to melt away impurities. Inspired by the ancient castles of Morocco, bathed in lunar light by night and with the stars twinkling overhead, they say that you’ll awake to a complexion that has a celestial glow, cocooned in skin-loving protective ingredients. How divine.
Exfoliation Pads
Day or night
Even though I mainly use these in the evening. However, if you find your skin is dry in the day before you do your makeup, and it just won’t sit right on the skin, these can be a brilliant quick fix. They are always, always in my kit. They can be used in the day as they aren’t as potent as the above exfoliators.
These are my faves:
Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing pads £42 (in my pro kit)
Dawny and I love these because they are just so effective. They are powered by ELEMIS patented Tri-Enzyme technology, act as a very effective, yet gentle skin perfecting exfoliator. An innovative and user-friendly treatment that enhances the Dynamic Resurfacing routine, replacing the need for harsh exfoliators.
Targeting skin which appears dull and rough, it gently encourages the skin’s natural renewal cycle and prepares skin for optimum results from the rest of the range. Rejuvenates, revitalises and smoothes, while boosting radiance for a luminous complexion.
These once-a-day resurfacing pads boost skin’s natural exfoliation rate giving clarified, smooth, visibly brightened skin. These deliver both chemical exfoliation with four types of acids, plus physical exfoliation with a micro-peel fibre pad. Designed to gently remove dead skin cells for the ultimate resurfacing to even skin tone for a glowing complexion.
Dr Dennis - Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel £89
Ok, so these are an icon status in the skincare world. They are formulated with a patented two-step system that combines Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids and new anti-aging boosters. They smooth and enrich your skin to leave it looking beautifully radiant.
On top of that, blemishes, dark spots, enlarged pores, redness and signs of ageing will be dramatically reduced, so your skin looks clearer and more even toned. Suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive of complexions, this easy-to-use peel is perfect for achieving professional quality results in the comfort of your own home.
And if you’re also looking for something for the body, the body version of these pads is also fab.
HYALURONIC ACID
Day and night
This is probably my favourite product in my whole routine. It's your hydration. It's actually a substance that's naturally produced by your body to maintain moisture levels. However, due to the annoying fact that we age (I curse the person who ever decided that was a thing!) our natural hyaluronic dips, so we need to boost it. If your skin is sufficiently hydrated it will look smoother, plumper and more radiant. It will also help with fine lines and the general ageing process. And it works on all skin types. So hyaluronic really is a no brainer. Ps: lots of serums have hyaluronic in them which is great, but you want a pure one for this step as it's more concentrated.
These are my hero hyaluronics:
Hada Labo - Super Hydrator £18.99 (in my pro kit)
If you guys have followed me for a while, you'll know that I am obsessed with this baby. And I now know, thanks to the numerous messages I get daily, that a lot of you are too! Hada Labo is the number one skincare brand in Japan. That says a lot in itself. This 150ml bottle, (that's big), holds four hyaluronic acids. FOUR! At the time of writing this post, that's more than any other hyaluronic in the UK. The four types of HA's give you multi layers of hydration. It also includes collagen and retinol. This is an affordable, hard-working product if ever there was one.
This is a brilliantly simple brand that spends its dollar on the product inside rather than on the packaging. This is a 2% hyaluronic which is a great starting point. And it's under £6! WOW!
I love Vichy, it’s one of those brands that you can really trust. This natural-origin hyaluronic acid is combined with Vichy’s highest concentration of Volcanic Mineralizing Water, super-rich in minerals. The lightweight gel texture of the serum creates a soothing veil upon application, helping to support the skin’s natural barrier and defend against pollutants.
I adore this brand. Their products are most definitely in the higher price point, but they are worth it IMO. This serum is a corrective multi-functioning serum. It’s fortified with 10% Proxylane (a patented molecule) and botanical extracts of Liquorice Root and Purple Rice. This lightweight, quick-absorbing formula delivers long-lasting hydration, whilst providing toning and tightening benefits to promote a smoother, more refined complexion.
Eye cream
Day and Night
I started using an eye cream around the age of 25, which I’d say is around the right age to begin. The skin around the eyes is 40% thinner than anywhere else on the face which is why we get more fine lines in that area than anywhere else. It's important to put your eye cream on at this point as it can then do its thing. If you apply it after this point then it will be over the top of too many other products, meaning it won't be able to get where it needs to. When putting it on, use your ring finger as this is the softest touch. Pat it around the whole orbital bone (that's the bone that goes around your eye), as this whole area needs the cream.
This actually works. I got one of my Skinfluencers to test it. Take a look at the before and afters here. It’s clinically proven with a combination of three retinols to help visibly firm, reduce the look of under-eye puffiness, brighten and reveal a more youthful-looking eye area.
Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Supercharged Eye Cream £52 (in my pro kit)
This collection is iconic for a reason. This silky, gel-creme formula is lightweight and fast-absorbing, making it ideal under makeup. It also helps to target dark circles. Its featured ingredients include Tripeptide-32, an exclusive peptide that supports skin's natural day/night rhythm of protection by day and renewal at night and Sodium Hyaluronate, AKA Hyaluronic Acid, a ferment that is a powerful moisture magnet.
This cream is proven to visibly correct signs of ageing around the eyes without the irritating side effects of Retinol. This potent yet gentle formula is powered by Optimized Surface Release Retinol for efficient conversion into skin's surface plus NIA-114 to limit skin sensitivity. Its plant-based ingredients help moisturise and visibly firm skin while a metal applicator cools and massages skin for visibly rejuvenated, less puffy eyes.
Serums
Day and night unless they are specifically for night
This is the area where I mix and match the most. I bloody love a serum. I always use the hyaluronic as previously mentioned. And at this point, I tend to add whatever I feel my skin needs. And that’s what’s great about serums; they are known for their effectiveness and are used to manage specific skin concerns such as wrinkles, blemishes, dry skin and dullness. They are designed to provide a variety of benefits, depending on the type of serum you use.
I tend to add more in my skincare routine at night, as I like these products to have time to work over night. But I also add these into my morning routine as they add such a beautiful glow to my skin, as well as helping to prep the skin for make-up. I always feel I need less base makeup when I've added a good serum. I do feel this category is a bit of a minefield as there is SO much choice and so many overwhelming ingredients. I found this comprehensive skincare ingredient dictionary from Good Housekeeping that is really straightforward and easy to understand. It’s definitely worth a read:
The Good House Keeping Skincare Ingredient Dictionary
On that note, here are the serums I'm loving right now. Sorry there are quite a few… I just couldn't narrow it down! I’ve also listed Retinols separately below.
I went to Iceland (the country, not the frozen-foods store!) with BioEffect and was blown away by the science that goes into the product. This is deeply replenishing; the essence prepares your complexion for moisturisers and serums and increases their EGF effectiveness. This means that using this product as part of your routine will enhance your other ones. It's also blended with Icelandic water and absorbs quickly, meaning no residue is left behind and skin will never feel sticky.
The icon that is. This is a firm favourite in many people’s routines. It helps with the key signs of ageing with its exclusive ChronoluxCB Technology. This is basically a formula that is said to combine with the natural skin repair mechanism to enhance the skin cell repair and protection process to help skin’s natural nightly renewal. This is why it's a great one to put into your night-time routine.
Sunday Riley - Vitamin CEO Brighten Serum £70 (in my pro kit)
This beauty includes 15% vitamin C and it really does brighten. CEO Rapid Flash Brightening Serum is super-charged with vitamin C to dramatically improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, also working to reduce pore size and tackle visible signs of ageing, including dullness, dehydration and premature lines and wrinkles. I love when you notice an instant difference from a product, and I certainly do from this one.
Shiseido - Ultimate Immune £60 (in my pro kit)
This is Shiseido’s number one best-selling serum, and I have loved it for years
It’s powered by eight botanical ingredients, this anti-ageing serum works to activate skin’s inner defences, supports skin immunity and stimulates circulation. Reishi mushroom and iris extracts help to improve skin’s resilience against the effects of ageing, while lotus and ginko work to combat environmental stressors.
The serum provides a boost of hydration and encourages visibly lifted and firmer skin after one month of use. It’s also suitable for all skin types, it is perfect for those who are looking for renewed and radiant-looking skin.
Grown Alchemist - Age Repair Serum £88
I really rate this brand. They have some fantastic products and this is one of my faves. The Peptides eight and six in it are responsible for creating this smoother illusion while Exo-Polysaccorides E-2 and E-14 lock in essential hydration. Skin will seem plumper and suppler than before, which can help to make creases seem less noticeable. Protec-3 Complex adds a layer of protection, shielding against external aggressors to promote a more radiant finish.
The advanced serum is inspired by microbiome science, formulated to protect your skin’s natural barrier to help defend against pollution, cold weather and temperature changes.
Seven pre- and probiotic-derived extracts are combined with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, helping to visibly plump and smooth skin. The formula locks in hydration while enhancing natural luminosity for a glowing complexion. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
Retinols and Retinals
Night only
Retinol is also called Vitamin A and is a little miracle worker. I started adding this into my routine when I hit 30 but you can start using in your mid 20’s if you think you need it.
So what does retinol do? It basically increases collagen production which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps to give your skin a fresher, plumper appearance.
What to expect and where to start?
There are different percentages of retinols so start low and build it up over time. You can expect your skin to peel slightly when you first start using it. Don’t panic, this is the dead skin cells being removed. This helps to reveal the best version of your skin. The peeling can last a good few weeks but bear with it as the results are worth it.
When to use Retinol?
Use these every other evening, rather than daily. And avoid using retinol products if you have sunburnt, broken skin, or any other skin irritations. And ALWAYS (I’m screaming this in my head) use an SPF the morning after using your retinol. (I mean you should be using SPF every damn day, but 100% don’t forget when using retinol)
This product is fantastic. Like seriously. Obvs we’d expect nothing less from Caroline and her team hey?! The product comes in number one and two. If you’re starting out, go with one. Number two is their intermediate level serum. It has all the greatness of Retinoid one, but with an active level of 0.5% hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR) and 0.05% retinal added. This has been developed for those accustomed to using vitamin A products who want to level up their routine, to maintain an even, radiant complexion.
The thing I love about these capsules is that they give you a perfect individual dose of product. I sometime think it’s hard to know how much product to use so this delivery system is ideal.
I would say that this is the product Medik 8 are most famous for. And there’s a reason for that. It’s bloody brilliant. And on top of that it’s a one-of-a-kind ground-breaking serum. Again, there are many different levels, so start with the lowest number and work up. Don’t be tempted to start high. Be patient as you’ll then see the best long-term results. Retinaldehyde is the star of Crystal Retinal; a next-generation form of vitamin A that is proven to deliver results up to 11x faster than retinol. Yes, this is retinAL, faster-acting than retinOL, the classic form of vitamin A.
Moisturiser
Day and night
The old classic, the moisturiser, now has thousands of different options. There are day creams and night creams galore. Personally, I tend to use the same moisturiser morning and night, but adjust my oils and serums in the evening. That's just my personal preference.
I love SkinCeuticals. Their products really are worth spending the dosh on. This anti-ageing plumping cream replenishes, corrects and nourishes the skin. It’s formulated with a rich concentration of essential lipids (2% pure ceramides, 4% natural cholesterol and 2% fatty acids) that play a crucial role in maintaining the strength of the skin's protective barrier. It assists in holding moisture, protecting the skin from damage and keeps dirt and impurities out. The lightweight and fast-absorbing cream improves the look of skin fullness, texture and radiance whilst deeply hydrating the complexion for up to eight hours.
This is the most hydrating moisturiser Murad has ever created. The non-greasy, easily absorbed formula contains avocado, sunflower and olive fruit which work to enhance skin’s moisture levels, and a collagen support complex to boost skin’s resilience and plump dehydrated skin. An amazing cream if you suffer with any dryness.
This is my fave of all the Kiehl’s creams. It's formulated with New Zealand Manuka Honey and Korean Red Ginseng Root Extracts. It’s formulated with 99.6% naturally derived ingredients and is super lightweight. It has this cool lid which squeezes out the perfect amount and keeps the formula fresh.
Tatcha - The Water Cream £65 (in my pro kit)
Ooooh I just love this brand. And this cream is dreamy. It deeply hydrates and balances the skin and contains powerful botanicals to promote healthy ageing. It’s also formulated with Japanese wild rose, which helps to smooth skin texture and visibly tighten pores. Japanese leopard lily helps to clarify skin by encouraging turnover while controlling excess oil. To add to its greatness, it contains Hadesai-3, a proprietary fermented complex of rice, algae and green tea to restore the skin’s radiance. It is lightweight so doesn’t feel sticky on the skin, it just leaves a lovely glow.
This is a nourishing ceramide-rich cream formulated to soothe, strengthen and repair dehydrated or sensitised skin. The power of ceramides helps to repair the skin’s protective barrier, lock in moisture and provide a first line of defence against environmental aggressors. The texture is gorgeous, whipped almost. And makeup sits beautifully on top.
Weleda Skin Food £13.50 (in my pro kit)
An absolute legend in the skincare world, this comes in the original and a light version. Perfection if you have any super dry or dehydrated areas. It’s made with organic sunflower seed oil and extracts of wild pansy, chamomile, calendula and revitalising rosemary extract. This intensely hydrating treatment is perfect for use on the whole body. I always have a tube of this on the go, and use it in tandem with my other moisturisers when I have those dry patches which tend to appear around my nose.
Oils
Day
Why use a facial oil, I hear you say! Well, the skin needs oil to maintain a healthy balance, otherwise it can get too dry. And dry skin can lead to many things such as breakouts, fine lines and patchy makeup. They tend to pass through the skin quickly preventing water-loss whilst keeping the skin plump. I also love the afterglow a facial oil – there’s nothing quite like it.
Oh, and for those with oily skin… one of the biggest misconceptions is that you shouldn’t use a facial oil. Well let me tell you, you should as the purpose of face oil is to help promote a barrier to maintain a healthy balance of oil and water. So ironically, using facial oils can actually help balance your skin.
Here are some of the best in the biz:
The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil £9.70
This lovely oil undergoes complex extraction, which preserves its superior quality and allows it to deliver maximum benefits. Rich in Linolenic Acid and Pro-Vitamin A, the formula is able to deliver an array of anti-ageing and photo-ageing benefits, as well as visibly improving other skin conditions.
This brand doesn’t only delivers exceptional hand wash, their skincare is pretty damn good too. I love this facial oil. It’s not greasy which is great for people with oily skin. It’s hydrating, fast absorbing and smells delicious.
Omorovicza Queen Oil £115 (in my pro kit)
I’m sorry but this oil is DIVINE. It’s a real rescue treatment tackling dryness, loss of skin density and a weakened skin barrier, promoting optimal skin health. The ideal prescription for dehydration, hormonal fluctuations, seasonal changes, or over-treatment of the skin, it also harnesses the power of nature’s most precious oils to repair, rebuild and re-plump the skin. Three sources of omega rebuild skin’s lipid levels and encourage ceramide synthesis, locking moisture in; five-flavour berry reconstructs the pillars of skin structure – collagen and elastin – to plump and firm, while a powerful cocktail of vitamin C, E and K form an antioxidant shield that repairs skin’s barrier. I truly adore this brand and think it’s worth every penny.
PAI - The Light Fantastic Cacao and Schisandra Ceramide Face Oil £44
Featherlight and fast-absorbing, the silky dry oil melts effortlessly into your skin without leaving it feeling greasy. It includes an antioxidant-rich plum oil and schisandra plant extract to help protect against environmental stressors. It helps to plump and give you radiant-looking skin. It’s an easy option that works for everyone.
SPF
Day
How many times have you heard the words, 'SPF is essential'? Well guess what, I'm here to tell you again! You should use an SPF every day, whatever the weather. It protects your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays that can damage the skin causing the likes of pigmentation and early signs of ageing. No one wants that! I don't think all SPFs work under makeup. A lot are amazing for holidays, but you want a lightweight version for day-to-day. I usually wear SPF50 and never less than an SPF30. Two fingers worth of SPF is perfect, just enough to cover the surface of the skin, obvs. And no, moisturisers with an SPF aren't enough. Use a separate one always. I’ll do a fully comprehensive SPF guide for face and body later in the year, in time for those lazy summer days. But for now, here’s the ones that come to mind first.
I love this SPF. The high-protection sun cream creates a lightweight veil on the skin with an invisible, non-greasy finish. Specifically designed for sensitive skin types which is fab.
Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF50+ £36 (in my pro kit)
The hype around this brand is real, and the products are just brilliant. The Queen Screen is basically an SPF hidden as a serum. That’s how lovely the formula is. Not only does it glide on and protect the skin, your makeup also glides on perfectly over the top.
This beauty is enriched with Vitamin E, the lotion offers antioxidant protection, defending the skin against environmental aggressors. It blends in beautifully and is light weight and non-greasy.
This is Sun Bum’s OG formula that can be used every single day. It is enriched with vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that works to neutralise free radicals and vitamin E which prevents skin from falling victim to dehydration, depleting collagen stores and premature ageing. Another great SPF brand.
Lip Balms
Day and/or night, whenever you need
I just love a good lip balm. I’m always searching for the next best one. I suffer from dry lips and this can quickly turn into a dreaded cold sore. You’ll always find at least three lip balms in my bag, just in case!
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm £21 (in my pro kit)
This is one of my all-time fave balms. I think it’s the smell. I mean it is reminiscent of a delicious cream cake so that kinda makes sense. However, on top of that its rich, hydrating, glossy but not sticky, and long wearing.
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant £29 (in my pro kit)
This is an iconic multi wonder balm. It literally does it all. From hydrating your lips, to smoothing your hair down. Everyone needs to try this product at least once in their life.
This balm harnesses the natural power of lanolin which is known to hydrate and soften. It comes in multiple shades and scents.
You know I always rave about this pot of joy. Again, it may just be because they smell AMAZING. I particularly love the mango and watermelon scent. But I’m pretty sure they are mega at hydrating too! Perfection.
Glossier is just a super cool brand with great looking products that work. And the Dotcom Balm is a cult favourite. It comes in an array of scents and often sells out. If you’re gluten-free like me, may I recommend the birthday cake scent which is totally GF FYI! Ha! They are also lovely and rich and very hydrating.
Congratulations if you’ve come this far. You can give yourself a pat on the back for finishing my epic skincare dissertation! I deserve an A, right? I probably should have actually written this at university rather than my rather lame essay on the Lion King and the emotions of all the animals in it. And no, you can’t read it!
Jokes aside, thanks for reading and I really hope it helps with the minefield that is skincare. Investing time and money in your skincare routine will not only benefit your skin now, but years down the line.
After all, beautiful skin requires commitment, not a miracle.
Eat, sleep, skincare, repeat,
Love
Lisa x
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