When I used to think of skincare I would perceive it as a chore and would do the bare minimum. That being, taking off my makeup before bed and putting on the odd bit of moisturiser.
Now after watching/reading multiple blog posts/videos from Caroline Hirons (who is one of the skincare gods in my opinion) and just generally noticing the increase of spots etc. I knew that an actual routine would be helpful.
Before talking about what products I use (which is unsolicited advice might I add, I am not a trained professional, this is just what works for me) I want to state how simply having a routine is not just important for your skin. I find that having something to do at night, which doesn’t change no matter the occasion brings structure to my day. It also helps to relax me before bed. If you’re anxious or stressed on a regular basis simply adding this to clear your head might do wonders.
Conversely, and just as important, is a morning routine. I find having a system in the morning actually wakes me up and gives me a small amount of time to concentrate on myself. Most of my skincare is done in the evening however washing your face and applying some moisturiser is just as important!
I’ve also added some cheaper alternatives below because I know some of the products can be more expensive.
Cleanser
I have used these two products for years. They are easy and work well. Garnier’s Micellar Water is a great product to remove all of your makeup, some do use it for eye makeup as well but I have sensitive eyes so this tends to end in tears – not exactly what I want. So, instead I use the Simple Eye Makeup Remover, which, might I add, is packaged with recycled materials (that is why the bottle looks grey rather than clear). This stuff removes eye makeup, especially mascara, really well and doesn’t react with my eyes.
However, for the cleanliness of your skin it is important to do a double cleanse, to remove firstly any makeup on your skin and then remove dirt/clean your pores. I must confess this is a step I don’t do regularly enough however I do recommend using Body Shop’s Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter. It is a bit on the oily side however, once used, your face feels extremely clean. If you’d rather you can also use this to remove makeup.
I also recommend giving your face a quick clean in the morning before applying any makeup but let it dry properly before applying anything else, this way your makeup will stay on properly.
Toner
After cleansing I will swipe a cotton pad of Pixi’s Glow Tonic over my face. I love this stuff, it gently exfoliates your face (‘removes excess oils and impurities’) and leaves it glowing. However, it is pricy and I usually get it at Christmas time. I find this bottle will last 3-6 months depending on how much you use it.
However I have also used Aldi’s Lacura Glycolic Skincare tonic (unable to link because it is already out of stock online), which has been haled the best dupe for the Pixi product. You have to watch this product though because they go fast, which is no surprise at £3.99. Same with the rose version they sell, which I have also used. If you see them in store or online I’d recommend grabbing a few. They are great!
Vitamin C
I’ve only been using Vitamin C for about a year now after visiting The Ordinary store in Edinburgh complaining of dull skin. At first I got given the Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% which I recommend, it doesn’t sting and sits comfortably on the skin like a cream, the employee said its a great place to start when using Vitamin C as you have to build a tolerance to it. Now I use the Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone which does sting when using it (was expected). If I am honest I ordered this by accident after thinking I ordered a repeat of the previously mentioned one. It’s smooth in texture because of the silicone and is supposed to brighten the skin while reducing signs of ageing. I do like this, the stinging however is unpleasant but you get used to it.
I might add that when using Vitamin C products you must use a SPF, Vitamin C products makes you more susceptible to burning. I haven’t recommended one because I am still on the hunt for one that isn’t too oily, if you have any recommendations please let me know. SPF is one of the most crucial steps in anyones routine and is supposed to be used both in summer and winter (yes, even when the sun isn’t shining).
Vitamin C Peel
I got this product in February for my birthday from my good friend. I was extremely surprised by the affect it had and I’m genuinely impressed. It’s a Body Shop product from their Vitamin C range, available here. This particular product is made to strip away dead skin and impurities, particularly pollutants that are left on the skin. I use this as recommended twice a week. It has removed the drier bits of skin I used to have and my skin has an improved texture. Highly recommend using it; it is pricy but I believe it will last a while and is worth it.
Moisturiser.
I feel like when it comes to moisturiser I still don’t fully understand what I need. However I do have 2 products that I love and recommend. The Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion. This moisturiser is one I have been using for years. However, because of its price I’ve only been using it in the morning rather than twice a day. It has a great texture and glides onto the skin. I can definitely feel the difference on my skin after its applied.
On the other hand, I know Clinique is expensive so I use the E45 moisturising lotion at night. I do have sensitive skin and have been prone to breaking out in random rashes therefore this product is great. It is multi use; I use it on my face and body, and it’s perfume free. I would be careful with it because it is supposed to be for eczema prone skin or extremely dry skin. A little definitely goes a long way with both products.
It must be said that my skin is not perfect. I have pigmentation on my chin, have problems with applying makeup on my nose for some odd reason (which I am guessing has something to do with my skincare) and have small spot like bumps on my forehead but it is a lot better than what it used to be and I am proud of where my skin is at, at this moment.
I feel it is important to address the fact that society has always told us to be ‘pretty’ is to look ‘perfect’. Therefore, our skin should look immaculate. The chances of this are very slim, especially as a female with hormones. I still haven’t gotten to the place where I am comfortable walking around without makeup on but I’m getting there. Don’t beat yourself up for your skin, its part of who you are, and it’s a journey.
If you are looking for cheaper skincare products Revolution, The Ordinary and Aldi are great places to look.
If you have any recommendations or questions leave them below.
Like I said before I recommend checking out Caroline Hirons blog, where there are extensive amounts of research, products and advice plus she has released a book if you want an even more in-depth insight into how you should look after your skin.
I hope this was useful.
Much love,
Sophie x
Sophie's Edit 
true, I realize after I change my skincare routine..those bumpy forehead looks a lot better
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I used the bodyshop vitamin C peel and I loved the end result as my skin would feel smooth and soft after every use.
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I think it is such an underrated product and really does make such a difference to my skin!
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