It has been roughly two decades since my hormones, changing skin, and I got my first skin care routine which consisted mainly of a giant tub of Noxema and a scunci. It has taken nearly twenty years of trial and error to find the tricks and tools I need to put my best face forward. My regimen is pretty crunchy and thrifty, no expensive creams or special treatments. I love that I can get that “Did she just get Botox?” glow with my drugstore skin care hacks. I’m sharing my top recommendations for products and doohickeys that I swear by for my best skin.
Tinkle Facial Razors :: Have you jumped on the female face shaving bandwagon yet? Once you start you’ll never want to stop. Not only does a dry shave remove any unwanted stray hairs and peach-fuzz, it also provides the most delightful, DIY, effective exfoliation. Foundation will glide on smoothly and you can really achieve that fresh-face radiance.
Jade Roller :: Believe it or not, a highlight of my day is rubbing a cold, smooth rock all over my face. The claim is that a jade roller used consistently in lymphatic massage patterns decreases inflammation and stimulates collagen production. I’m not going to do anything crazy like only rub half my face to prove its positive effects, but I feel them (and I think I can see them). I’ve used mine for more than two years and never travel without it. Bonus tip: keep your jade roller in the freezer for the most invigorating experience.
Lancets :: I’m a picker. Always have been. Introducing these lancets to my bathroom sink has been the best thing I’ve done this year. I’ve virtually stopped the cycle of squeezing, picking, scabbing, picking some more, and scarring. I use these sterile and tiny needles (found with the diabetic supplies) to lance a blemish and let it drain naturally. My pimples heal more quickly and I still get the satisfaction of feeling like I’m being proactive when a blemish bubbles up under the surface.
Pure Castile Liquid Soap :: There’s a reason this multi-use product is a favorite of “America’s Princess” Meghan Markle – it’s a tried and true miracle product. My top uses for Castile liquid soap are a few drops as a mild facial cleanser, a splash on my legs as a shaving lotion, and diluted in water as soap for getting make-up brushes wonderfully clean. Meghan likes the almond scented, but eucalyptus is a favorite of mine; there’s even unscented for the most sensitive out there.
Rose Water :: This facial spray is my secret weapon for a mid-day face and décolletage refresh. It is light while being moisturizing, but not oily. Rose water is a natural toner and soothes irritation. Use it as a make-up setting spray or hair spritz, too. The added benefit is that it smells absolutely divine.
I’ve come a long way since my pre-teen years and feel fortunate that I’ve found items and products that work for me. What are the MVPs of your skincare routine?
