How to Achieve Winter Skincare Goals

My skin’s story:

I’ve been dealing with sensitive, acne-prone skin since early middle school. Rarely have my breakouts been what a dermatologist would deem severe, but the constant battle with those pesky red bumps has weighed on me often over the years.  I’ve found that my skin is much happier when I avoid stripping it of all it’s oils (i.e. using spinning brushes, grainy exfoliators and covering my face in benzoyl peroxide every night). I still dawn hormonal acne like its going out of style, but at least I feel comfortable and my skin is getting proper hydration. If you want to know how I still manage to treat my acne without drying out my skin, I’ll be happy to put together another post with more detail, but today I am going to share 4 ways you can amp-up your skincare routine in preparation for the winter months.

Facial Essence

What is it?

Water essences hit the American market over the past year or so. Like much of our skincare these days, the essence technology first gained popularity in Korea.

What does it do?

Soothes freshly-washed skin and preps it for all the skin-loving goodness you are about to pile on. I also use this as a quick layer of super-breathable moister before going to the gym.

How do I apply it?

Pour 3 drops into your palm, rub your hands together, and pat onto your skin and neck.

Smoothing Moisturizer

What is it?

Moisturizer adds essential hydration back into your skin after cleansing. Even if you have oily skin, moisturizer should be a key step in your routine as it regulates oil production. This super-packed moisturizer from It! Cosmetics is one of the best I’ve ever tried.

P.S. If you are still weary about wearing a heavy cream on acne-prone skin, I recommend finding a hydrating gel or using a hylaruanic acid (HA) serum like this one from The Ordinary. It’s less than $10 and sinks right into your skin. I used this during my oily summer months this year and loved it.

P.P.S. If you have mature skin, you might consider using HA before applying an anti-aging cream. HA penetrates deep into your skin and instantly plumps fine lines. I have given my mom a few “facials” using this, and the results are almost instant.

What does it do?

This cream claims to be anti-aging and pore-refining. I’m nineteen, so I can’t speak much to the anti-aging properties. HOWEVER, my skin always feels plump and my pores seem to disappear after smoothing this gem all over.

How do I apply it?

Start in the center of your face, then spread outwards and up. Don’t forget your neck!

Rosehip Oil

What is it?

Your new best friend.

What does it do?

A lightweight oil that works to restore skin’s tone and texture, reduce acne scarring and smooth fine lines. Oh, and it won’t break you out. WINNING.

How do I apply it?

This is one step I only do at night. If you have a drier complexion, you can definitely get away with applying this in the morning as well because it absorbs so quickly. Apply a few drops to your palm, rub together, then pat onto your skin.

Thermal Water Spray

What is it?

A probably unnecessary step. . .but then again. . .

What does it do?

Calms, rejuvenates and balances the skin.

How do I apply it?

Just mist it on after the oil, and soak up the luxury.

Seriously though, if you have sensitive skin or even mild headaches, a thermal spray can alleviate some of the discomfort that might arise throughout the day. I usually spray this in between classes to A) wake myself up and B) add a little elasticity back into my face.

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