New year, new year… skin care routine

This January, I'm stepping up my exercise routine like the rest of the UK, but I'm also sharing my skincare routine. Sometimes it's hard to know where to start, so a few years ago I started following Caroline Hirons (the Queen of Skin Care) on Instagram and have since read her book Skin Care. Picking Policy) has completely cleared my skin. So I thought I'd share my routine and the products I use the most (that actually really work for me).

product

cleanser and face cloth

This Medic 8 toner is my favorite product and I've found it makes the biggest difference when switching from other cleansers and now I can't live without it. If you don't use it every day, you'll notice a difference in small bumpy spots appearing. I'm always shocked at how much dirt comes off my face, even after double cleansing. This comes with a pump and I use it with a cotton pad. Just a little hint. I use Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Acid every few days instead of the standard product. This is to give you a very natural sun-like glow and prevent you from looking pale.

Moisturizer and SPF

I alternate between these two moisturizers to keep my skincare routine fresh. Both are a staple in your bathroom cupboard and are highly recommended, especially for those with sensitive skin. I don't like anything too thick as it makes my skin feel sticky. When it comes to SPF, there are so many to choose from as it has become an essential part of every skin care routine over the last few years. The Heliocare brand is recommended by Caroline Hirons. I feel Heliocare is the best on the market at an affordable price because it just does what it's supposed to do as an SPF. Just a quick tip; specialized sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB, while sunscreens found in moisturizers and makeup products tend to only protect against UVB. That means it won't burn, but collagen will be broken down and cause aging (among other things!).

Alternative night drops with retinol (vitamin A)

Using retinol (vitamin A) every few days will remove dead skin cells and rejuvenate your skin. It is important to gradually increase the frequency and intensity of product use. If you use it too strongly or too often, it can burn your skin. , a little hint. Less is more! Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptide has the same desired effects but is retinol-free, so it's gentler on the skin and is the product I use every night. I don't use retinol. I also used it during pregnancy as a gentler alternative.

Other products I like

The Chantecaille face mask is the most luxurious skincare product I've ever purchased, and it's really nice. It leaves your skin moisturized and plumped up in 10 minutes with a face mask (though I often leave it on overnight). Emma Hardie Pump and Glow Spray is a skin-refreshing savior. I always carry it in my bag, especially when I'm out all day, when I'm putting on my makeup, or during the winter when my skin tends to be drier. Finally, Cerave Blemish Control Gel is great for when you have dark spots or breakouts.

Building a great skincare collection can take time. Other brands that are cheaper alternatives to some of the products above include The Ordinary, Pixi and Cerave, and Beauty Pie. I've found that with a good routine in place, I can replace my more expensive products one at a time when I run out of cheaper ones.