Combining products is something that I have always done to save time getting ready. I always seem to be in a rush in the morning and I don’t like to cut corners with my skin health. I put together a few “double duty” products or steps that might help you get the most out of your products with less effort.
Cleanse and remove make-up simultaneously
Do you ever notice how sometimes your cleanser doesn’t thoroughly remove your make up at night? Shu Uemura Skin Purifier in my opinion, seems to remove every trace of make-up and dirt on my face. I even love to use it in the morning as it adds some hydration during the cold dry winter and rinses clean with water. Adding a drop of 2 of organic rosehip seed oil to your favorite cleanser also works well to remove make up.
Shu Uemura Skin Purifier https://www.shuuemura-usa.com/product/HIGH-PERFORMANCE-BALANCING-CLEANSING-OIL-ADVANCED-FORMULA,default,pd.html#start=5&cgid=skincare-cleanser-remover
I buy high quality organic rosehip seed oil form Merz Apothecary in Chicago. Storing it in the refrigerator helps to preserve the product and keeps it out of the daylight. Additionally you can purchase the product on their website:
Exfoliate and soothe together
Over exfoliation and scrubbing can worsen already dry or further irritate sensitive skin. However, it is a necessary step in order for the moisturizers to penetrate the skin. Try a gentle cream based version and rinse off. Pat skin dry with towel.
Revision Black Mask contains a combination of clays and soothing tea tree oil to reveal a glowing complexion. Salicylic acid provides gentle exfoliation. Available through physicians only. Ask about Revision Skincare from your medical professional during your next visit or visit the company website for more information:
http://www.revisionskincare.com/locator
Kate Somerville makes a hypoallergenic Goat Milk Cream for the face that contains lactic acid which acts as a gentle exfoliant while avocado and grape seed oils nourish the skin. This cream acts as a daytime or evening moisturizer and is a great product for irritated skin.
http://www.katesomerville.com/skincare/shop-by-collection/goat-milk/?gclid=CKrpmOzl_sMCFQQkgQoddB0ACA
Use an antioxidant daily
Use a daily antioxidant that also hydrates. I’ve replaced my regular Vitamin C serums with Revision Skincare Vitamin C Lotion 30%
Just like applying sunscreen or taking your vitamins, it a good habit to get into because it helps to prevent free radical damage that can lead to aging skin. And remember- this is the first step after cleansing. Moisturizer and sunscreen should follow.
Fight wrinkles and hydrate
Mix your retinol with your moisturizer- to combat the possibility of skin peeling and over drying. Application is essential at night as retinols are reflected by light which pretty much defeats the purpose of morning application.
Conceal, brighten and tighten!
Teamine Concealer is more than a mineral tint for dark circles, it is also a treatment for fine lines, wrinkles and puffiness. A must have for travel! I carry my tube in my purse for daytime touch ups. This product is made by Revision Skincare.
Consider Dry Brushing
During the winter months I usually need a heavier body cream. You will find that your lotion absorbs better (and you may even need less) when you dry brush as the dead layer of skin is removed. Stand in the shower with a natural bristle brush and begin from feet to head. Brush upwards and towards your heart. Make sure you stand in the shower because you will be brushing away the dry flaky skin. Then start the shower and wash your body as usual with your preferred soap, shower gel or moisturizing body wash. Some studies say this activity improves lymph function, eliminates toxins and energizes! I purchased mine at whole foods as they have the best selection of natural bristled body brushes. Finish by applying an application of body lotion while skin is still slightly damp. Towel off excess.
Skin health is as important as physical fitness, wellness and visits to the physician. Follow a good routine and you will love your skin and see the glow from within!
-Laura Hunnewell