Skincare Foundations
How would you describe your skin diet?
Most of us know that in the same way that our health is a reflection of the nutrition we give it - the same goes for our skin. And even though I know some of you may read this and think, “Of course, Vee - that’s a no brainer”, I also know that most of us are guilty of cutting corners when we’re short on time or are unsure of where to start on building our skincare routines.
So, just like we strive to do in our regular diets, let’s cut the crap.
Today I’m sharing my no-BS and no-excuse foundational nighttime skincare items that even the busiest babe can commit to (that means you, sis). When it comes to overcoming our hectic schedules, the key lies in setting ourselves up for success. So, use these foundations to help refine what you’re already rocking, or just to lay out a base that you can keep building on!
Gentle Cleanser
Washing the day away with a gentle cleanser is the best way to prepare your skin for all the goodness of your serums and oils before bed. Pick a cleanser that suits your skin type (personally, foaming cleansers are not for me), but make sure that it doesn’t strip your skin’s moisture (and by that, I mean that your skin shouldn’t feel overly tight after cleansing).
Chemical Exfoliants
I’m a big fan of exfoliating my skin regularly and prefer to reach for a chemical exfoliant over a physical one (think acids versus microbeads). Nowadays, you can pick up exfoliants in a number of products, including toners and serums. Add one or two of these products into your skincare rotation, but make sure to give your skin time to breathe between applications.
Retinoids
Introducing anti-aging products into your routine sooner than later is key. If you haven’t added a retinoid product to your arsenal yet, this is your sign to do it. These compounds can reduce fine lines and wrinkles (after consistent and long-term use) and are so easy to add to your rotation. Make sure to work a few drops into your skin after your moisturizer, and follow it up with a second layer of moisturizing goodness to lock it in.
Serums
Hydrating your skin should be the ultimate end goal of your routine, and trust me sis, doing the extra credit, in this case, is always worth it. Hydrating serums are some of the best tools you can add to your rotation to achieve that glazed doughnut, “it’s giving hydrated queen” look. I typically reach for a squalane-based serum, but a hyaluronic acid (applied on lightly wet skin for best absorption) or even a hydrating sheet mask filled with serum are also great options.
Moisturizers
When it comes to night creams, I always say the richer the better. And by that, I don’t mean you need to break the bank. But you do need to make sure that your moisturizers add to the hydration of your serums, and lock all the goodness of your routine into place.
Eye Creams
At the risk of sharing a “hot take”, I personally don’t add eye creams into my own routine. But, if you haven’t picked up on this yet, I’m a big hydration buff. And seeing as your eye area is where your skin is most delicate and thin, it’s also the most susceptible to dryness and irritation. So, I give my eyes a bit of love with a dime-sized amount of petroleum jelly, one of the most moisturizing products available. It’s great for my budget, and my skin continues to thank me for it.
Lip Balms
So, no offense, but people who don’t go to sleep with moisturized lips - how do you even? I personally make sure that my lips are as glossy as my hydrated skin by adding a layer of moisturizing lip balm before bed. Trust me, it’s worth the added step to wake up every day with soft lips.
