MY SKINCARE GOLDEN RULES

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In the 4-5 years that I've been really into skincare, I've definitely learnt a lot about my skin. Today I wanted to talk about the golden rules I've discovered that work for me personally! 

- DOUBLE CLEANSE, ALWAYS - 

It doesn't matter if it's 6am and I've just arrived back from a rave: I always, always, always double-cleanse if I can still stand up! I actually don't even agree with the phrase 'double cleanse' because removing your makeup is just that; it doesn't cleanse your skin itself. I use an oil-based cleanser to shift even waterproof eyeliner and mascara so I can remove it with a damp cloth. I then go in with something cream-based to cleanse the skin underneath. This method gives my skin that extra TLC it needs as well as ensuring my entire face is totally makeup-free. My skin is in far better condition than back in the days I was rubbing a semi-dry face wipe over it and calling it a day!

I recommend...

First Cleanse:
Emma Hardie Amazing Face Moringa Cleansing Balm | £47 | review
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil | £24 | review

Second Cleanse:
Omorovicza Cashmere Cleanser* | £49 | review
Trilogy Cream Cleanser | £23.50 | review

Check out my post on double-cleansing here

- CHEMICAL > PHYSICAL EXFOLIATION -

There are definitely occasions during the depths of winter when I do like to go in and have a good scrub; but I find that on a regular basis, my skin just doesn't need that. Chemical exfoliation feels less abrasive and I personally think it gives amazing additional benefits. Instead of scrubbing at your face, you can use a chemical exfoliator with the concentration that's right for your skin - starting off with a gentle 5% and building to a 20% formula if you need a little something extra. Not only will a salicylic, glycolic or lactic acid get rid of dry patches, but they will smooth out the skin's tone and texture, as well as making it glow (and reduce blemishes in the case of salicylic acid).

I recommend...

Physical exfoliation:
Pixi Peel & Polish* | £26 | review

Chemical exfoliation:
Super Facialist Salicylic Acid Clay Mask* | £10 | review
Pixi Glow Tonic* | £18 | review
REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic* | £25 | review

Check out my post on acids here

- FACE WIPES: FOR EMERGENCIES ONLY -

There's a time and place for face wipes but (in my personal opinion!) that isn't in your everyday routine. It's for when you just don't have a choice - such as if you're on a flight or you just can't get up to the bathroom because the world is spinning... Generally they won't remove all of your makeup, will probably tug on your skin as a result and overall won't do your skin much good. However they're better than nothing and if that's the alternative: use a face wipe!

I recommend...

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Wipes* | £7.20 | review
Pixi Makeup Melting Cleansing Cloths* | £10 | review

- TAKE YOUR VITAMINS (TOPICALLY) -

I personally choose not to talk about vitamins that claim to help your skin on this blog that you take, however I can't rave enough about topical antioxidants. Vitamin A (AKA retinol) can help acne scarring and fine lines, Vitamin C is amazing for radiance and Vitamin E is soothing and hydrating. I try to incorporate these three ingredients as much as possible in my routine to ensure my skin looks and feels healthy. No matter what your skin type is; using antioxidants can be very beneficial.

I recommend...

Vitamin A:
Sunday Riley Luna Oil* | £45 | review

Vitamin C:
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Serum* | £67 | review

Vitamin E:
Alpha-H Vitamin E* | £29 | review 

- DON'T FORGET YOUR NECK - 

This is pretty straightforward! I really don't think it's necessary to buy specific neck creams, but a good rule of thumb is: whatever you're doing for your face, do it for your neck too. If you take your foundation down your neck then ensure that you cleanse there too. If you're applying an oil or moisturiser to your face then be sure not to neglect your neck. It's one of the first areas that shows ageing, so even if you aren't concerned with how your neck looks now; future you will be grateful! 

- OILS ARE YOUR FRIEND -

I genuinely believe there's an oil out there for every skin type! I think many of us see oils as the opposite of what we need and worry that they'll clog our pores or make us greasy, however oils can be amazing for a wide range of concerns and yes; you can use oils even if you have oily skin. I just apply them before bed so I don't have to worry about my face looking shiny during the day and they can work their magic overnight.

I recommend...

Oily skin:
The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil | £12 | review

Dry skin:
Pai BioRegenerate Rosehip Oil* | £24 | review

What are your golden rules for your skincare routine?

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Read more posts from this series here!