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Skincare Products for Combination Skin: My New Routine
Until recently, I never had a great skincare routine. But as I get older, and my hormones shift all over the place, my skin was taking a toll. I was noticing that some days it was oily and then other days it was super dry. I was having breakouts and uneven skin tone.
So I started asking around and doing some digging into skin care products. Unable to justify breaking the bank on serums and creams and products, I was determined to find a routine that made my skin look dewy and glowy while being incredibly budget friendly. And I did.
I've honestly never been happier with my skin and how it looks (except for that one time when I got Botox!). The products I use are (for the most part) natural, vegan, and don't use heavy or synthetic chemicals. This wasn't a huge deal for me - I've never been one to only use organic or vegan products.
Skincare Routines
My nighttime and morning routines are pretty similar, and only take about 5 minutes. This is key for me - I can't have a long, drawn out routine.
Nighttime Routine:
Remove makeup and use a cleanser. Thanks to my friend Ashley over at NeverBeenSo.com I found the Makeup Eraser and I'll never go back! It takes makeup off with just water and is machine washable. So easy! Then I use the cult-favorite cleanser by Tula. My skin feels clean and refreshed.
Twice a week, I use a microdermabrasion exfoliator. I used to use the MaryKay Timewise Microdermabrasion Refine set, but this one is a great dupe and is way easier to get my hands on! I cannot stress how good your skin feels after using this refiner.
Part of my skincare discovery was a new (to me) brand, The Ordinary, which can be found at Sephora. I love the price point, and love the minimal ingredient list. I start with a Retinol 0.2% in Squalane serum - only a few drops - and massage onto my face and neck. (if you've never used a retinoid before, start with the 0.2% and gradually move up to a higher dose to get your skin acclimated). This goes on first, after washing my face since serums are absorbed into the skin.
After the retinol serum, I apply The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum, which is thicker than the retinol.
Using a Hyaluronic acid serum with a retinol serum can help counteract any tingling or redness the retinol may cause as your skin gets used to the treatment. Personally I really like the way it enhances moisture and makes my skin feel.
Morning Routine:
After showering, I apply The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum and let dry as I get dressed.
Since we are spending more time outside, a daily moisturizer with built-in SPF is crucial. I fell in love with the L'Oreal Revitalift moisturizer because it isn't too heavy and makes my skin feel super soft.
Because I cannot get enough moisture on my skin when I'm outside so much, I top it off with the Tarte Maracuja Hydrating Tinted Moisturizer. I love Tarte products because they are paraben and sulfate-free. This has Maracuja oil which enhances brightness, evenness, and firmness. It's lightweight and sheer, but can be buildable if you're into that!
During the day if my skin starts to dry out or look uneven, I'll use a spritz of Mario Badescu Rosewater and Aloe facial spray. This has been my favorite "every day, all day" refresher for years.
After that, I'll go with some light, everyday makeup for a simple, natural look.
Below is a before and after, when I started this routine and about a month later. My skintone is more even and the fine lines and wrinkles in my forehead are reduced! Same minimal makeup, but a little more tan ;)
(This article contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase any of these items using my link, I receive a small commission!)
