We survived! Winter is over, and it’s only warmer days ahead. I’m happy to report that despite cold temps, dry air, and holiday stress, my skin has never looked better. Above all, my healthy skin is a reflection of my current skincare regimen. Right now, my product lineup is the skin care version of high-low style. That is to say, it includes drugstore favorites in addition to luxury must haves. And, just like high-low style, my skin-care lineup in a winning combination.
If you are an avid reader of my opines, then you know that I’m in a constant battle with acne and the dark spots left in their wake. However, thanks to my product mix, I am victorious against the formidable pimple, and my skin is practically crystal clear. They say it takes a village to raise a child, but for me it takes an arsenal to create the glow. Consequently, I’m using 8 products a day on average. But, there are days when I’m at a solid 10-step skin care routine status.
The MVP
If I have to name an MVP of the bunch, I’d have to say that award goes to The Ordinary’s Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone. Surprisingly, The Ordinary’s Vitamin C is one of the lesser priced items at $6.80 for 1 oz. It’s no secret that Vitamin C is highly effective at brightening skin. In addition, Vitamin C has also been proven to reduce signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. In other words, Vitamin C is a rock star in skin care. As a result, many brands have at least one product that touts the inclusion of the super vitamin.
However, most Vitamin C products contain less than 10% Vitamin C. For example, Drunk Elephant C-Firma™Vitamin C Day Serum contains 15% ascorbic acid (the natural form of Vitamin C). The Drunk Elephant is considered a luxury brand. And as a result, the serum will you cost you a luxurious $80 for a 1oz. tube. On the other hand, The Ordinary’s Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone has…wait for it…30% Vitamin C.
Certainly, my Vitamin C serum is a standout. But, don’t sleep on the rest of my regimen. They all pull their weight and contribute to my current healthy-skin state. I’ll probably stick with the core of this lineup, switching out a few things here and there. Then, when the weather really starts to heat up, it’s time for an overhaul. Until then, it’s good to know that if I experience any setbacks from a new routine, I know which products to pick up to get back on track.
My Current Skin care line up Oil-based cleanser - Elemis, Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm
Water-based cleanser - Cetaphil
Toner - Etude House, Moistfull Collagen Facial Toner
Exfoliator - The Ordinary, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution | Peter Thomas Roth, Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Enzymatic Dermal Resurfacer
Mask - Innisfree, Super Volcanic Clusters Pore Clearing Clay Mask | Etude House, Moistfull Collegen Sleeping Mask
Essence - NEOGEN, Real Ferment Micro Essence (day) Cosrx, Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence (night)
Serum - Cosrx, Propolis Light Ampoule (day) | Volition Beauty, Snow Mushroom Water Serum (night)
Moisturiser - Cosrx, Honey Ceramide Full Moisture Cream (day) | Tatcha, The Dewy Skin Cream (night)
Eye Cream - The Ordinay, Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG