My (Updated) Skincare Routine
Over the last several years, I’ve been on a mission to find a skincare routine that really works for my super sensitive, acne-prone skin. A few years back, I wrote a post about what was working for me at the time. Things were going pretty well for me compared to how it had been, but that routine isn’t what I’m using anymore. After writing the post, I started dealing with some really serious reactions to something I was using. I had to fully strip down my routine to the basics and start from scratch. And since then? Well, I’ve finally found a skincare routine that works.
The routine I’m about to share with you is what I’ve been using for about a year and a half now. I went from having breakouts basically 90-100% of the time to having it be an extremely rare occurrence. I can now comfortably go without makeup anytime I want, I feel great about my skin, and I can really and truly honestly tell you it’s never been better.
Of course, skincare routines are so incredibly individual, and mine won’t work for everyone. My biggest recommendation is to add only one product at a time, so you can truly know if it’s going to work. With that being said, let’s get to it!
My Morning Skincare Routine
- I start my morning with Vanicream face wash. I think it’s safe to say that this face wash has been the most impactful change I made. I will never go back to using anything else.
- Then, I use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. It has really helped curb my breakouts and keep my skin looking smooth and bright.
- The newest addition to my routine is Vanicream’s Vitamin C serum. I’ve tried for years to find a good vitamin C serum that doesn’t break me out or irritate my skin, and this is the winner! I’ve noticed much more even and brighter skin since I started using it.
- Next up, I use this San Tropez Face Tanning Mist. I love how easy it is to use, and it works so well. I’ve been a fan of this for years, and I took a break from it because it’s a bit on the pricey side, but I just didn’t love anything else nearly as much.
- After that has dried, I use The Ordinary’s Caffeine Solution under my eyes. I deal with some darkness and puffiness under my eyes and this has really made a big difference for me!
- Then, I wrap things up with moisturizer! I use Vanicream’s Facial Moisturizer with SPF for my face, along with LilyAna Eye Cream.
My Evening Skincare Routine
- At the end of the day, I start by taking my makeup off, if necessary. I use this makeup remover, paired with these cloth makeup removing pads.
- Next up, I wash my face with Vanicream again.
- After drying my face, I apply The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid. I like the 5% solution (which is what I linked) but it’s getting harder and harder to find. And when I can find it, it’s often way overpriced. So, they may be discontinuing that specific one and I may have to find another. Keeping my fingers crossed that isn’t the case because I really like it!
- After that has set for a minute, I apply another round of The Ordinary’s Niacinamide.
- Then, I wrap things up with Vanicream’s moisturizer and another round of eye cream!
A Couple of Additional Notes:
- I’ve found that what I dry my face with makes a huge difference. I’ve tried a variety of solutions, including wash cloths that I wash after every use. In the end, these disposable face cloths are what works best for me. I know it’s not ideal to use a disposable product, but it’s made a big difference for me so I’m sticking with it.
- Makeup also plays a huge role in how happy my skin is. I gravitate to using products formulated for acne-prone skin or that mention improving your complexion. It makes a difference! Also, I use a makeup sponge to apply it and I wash it with soap every single time I use it.
- Swapping to a silk pillowcase helped some with curbing breakouts.
- And finally, for me, the number one factor is consistency. I never (ever ever ever) skip my routine, especially the nighttime one.