Hello all,
As the cold winter months roll in, not only our bank accounts begin to suffer but our poor skin does too. I have always struggled with my skin, so believe me when I say it's not as easy as just 'washing your face' to get rid of oil, dryness and acne. So if you want to fight those pugnacious spots then keep on reading.
Over the last several years, I have been searching for the perfect skin care routine, as I've suffered with acne and extremely oily skin since I hit the oh so wonderful stage of puberty (deffo not a girls best friend) However now, I have a pretty stable routine and little tips and tricks to help keep my skin clear! Even if you don't have oily skin and you suffer with dry skin, I'm sure there's deffo something here that can help you!
Quick disclaimer that this routine may not work for everyone, and its definitely not full-proof - I am no qualified dermatologist, everything I say is either leaned from experience or what I myself have been told by one. Acne is a natural thing and it is very hard to stop completely! Don't let anyone ever let you feel bad about your skin because I guarantee if they don't have skin problems in their teens, they will get it later in life. Either that or they are a robot.
First things first you want to have a good makeup remover. I highly recommend you use a water-type remover, such as my personal favourite
Garnier micellar water. (or any kind that suits you, i know No7 do a good one) This one is especially good as it comes in so many different types, to fit every skin type. However, I simply use the original one.
These are so much better for your skin compared to makeup wipes, as they don't tug on your skin, they cleans it as the same time and they never leave it feeling raw. Also they do a really really good job of getting your makeup off - which is vital!
Next up you want to use a face scrub/wash that works for you. This may take a while to find, through the method of trail and improvement.
There are many out there that I love but all of them are by the brand 'Clean and clear' as they do a line of 'advantage oil free' face products. These are my ride or die products as if I go even a single day without using it, I'll wake up with enough oil on my face to make an oil-rig millions.
This one is my current favourite (
Oil control cream wash) however I like to change it for another once it runs out, just in case my skin becomes 'immune.' Believe me. It happens.
I like to use this twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. This keeps your face fresh and clean, as it helps to get the bacteria and the gross stuff off your face.
Next you want to use a cleaner. This step isn't vital if you use the micellar water which has a cleaner in anyway. However I always use this as it gets LITERALLY everything off your skin - in a good way. This one is the Clean and Clear
Deep cleansing lotion for sensitive skin.
Finally in my everyday routine I use a moisturiser. This one is the Neutrogena
Norwegian formula deep comfort balm. I use this one as it is thin, however can be applied in layers to make it thicker, making it good for all skin types. It's also very soothing and makes your skin sooo soft.
Moisturisers are a must, for both oily and dry skin and there's so many different types it's important to know which one is right for you.
There are 2 types of moisturiser: water based and oil based. A clear way to tell the difference is the colour. Water based and the white, typical moisturisers, whereas the oil based ones look a clear-yellowy colour, like vaseline.
If you suffer from really really dry skin (like crispy) then the oil based is the best - however i think this is only available from doctors or over the counter. I once had this when I had horribly dry skin as a result to acne medication (lol the irony - try to make it better and makes it worse) and that's what the doctor prescribed me!
However if you have oily skin then a thin water based moisturiser is for you!
If you suffer from what i like to call 'pop-up spots' (which are spots that literally pop up randomly, whether it be around your period or just whenever) this Neutrogena
Visibly clear rapid clear treatment is perfect. It's magic in a tube. It clears spots in around 4 hours, so it's perfect to put on over night and be cleared up in the morning!
Another way to treat your skin is to occasionally use a face mask. This one is the
Good things 5-minute facial and it makes your skin feel fresh and SOO soft!
One more vital part of my routine is Tetrasyl acne tablets. These were prescribed to me by the doctor and cannot be purchased without a prescription. These have made all the difference and after years of trying creams, serums and other things that wrecked my skin, these are the best thing to ever happen to my skin - so if you suffer from acne i highly recommend going to visit your GP!
Another KEY TIP for keeping your skin clear is makeup! Now, we all know that makeup doesn't help your skin, as it can block your pores and stop the fresh air from getting into your skin. So one tip is to give your face a day off every now and then - soak up some fresh air, get some vitamin D!
Another tip is to aways wear SUNCREAM on your face if it's hot. I know you want a tan but suncream doesn't stop the tan but bad rays from the sun which can cause dry skin, irritation and cancer.
FINAL TIP from me is when you use concealer, if it's in a tube with an applicator, always put the product on the back of your hand before applying to a spot. This stops the spread of infection back into the tube and still allows you to cover your acne!
Thankyou for reading, I hope this post helped you in some way! Let me know if it has and what your favourite skin care products are!
Thanks again,
Fern :)
