ootdfashion
Back in February, it marked fourteen years since I wrote my first blog post here. In 2010, the site was called “A Model Recommends,” and my reviews were just a couple of hundred words or so. I shared my honest thoughts on products, using the brand’s own images from their online stores or Google. The terms “social media” and “influencer” weren’t really a thing back then.
Revisiting those older posts, I’m reminded of how straightforward online life used to be. My background as a model for twelve years allowed me to learn about the best skincare and haircare products from top makeup artists and hairstylists who tried everything on the market. Makeup recommendations were less exciting since MAC was almost universally used, but that’s another story for another time.
I traveled extensively as a model and wrote about products I loved. However, as my blog gained popularity, I received products directly and became the tester myself. With around 450,000 monthly pageviews at the peak of blogging, I felt a strong responsibility to be diligent in testing and reviewing. I educated myself on product ingredients and their benefits, using resources like the Cosmetic Cop website to ensure I gave fair evaluations.
To shorten the story, I approached product testing as a serious job. Today, I remain just as dedicated as I was back in the day. When I say I love a product, I’ve thoroughly tested it against others in its category. The real proof of an excellent product for me is one I’d repurchase out of pocket, even when I have numerous alternatives waiting to be tried.
I’ve developed a new habit of noting the products I frequently use and saving their packaging to keep track of personal favorites. I have plastic boxes where I store trusted foundations, mascaras, and cleansers, and now and then, I document the contents with notes.
This entry reveals what’s in one of those boxes—my most-used skincare products of 2023. While there are many other impressive products I’d love to highlight, these are my true staples.
Here are the skincare products that became my go-to’s in 2023. Maybe next year, I’ll compile similar lists for makeup and haircare.
Morning Skincare Routine:
In the morning, I usually skip a deep cleanse, which I save for the evening, favoring a quick cleanse with:
– Sali Hughes Placid Daily Exfoliant: A gentle liquid exfoliant that’s perfect for daily use, keeping my skin clear and bright.
– Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid: Used during PMT week to keep pores clear, it’s effective at tackling hormonal breakouts.
Next, I apply an antioxidant serum before my moisturizer or SPF:
– Kiehls Line-Reducing Concentrate: I love its unique, silky texture.
– Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster: Versatile enough to use as a serum or mix with moisturizers.
– Lancome Triple Serum: Combines ferulic acid with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, providing a smooth application and ticking multiple skincare boxes.
For moisture and protection, I choose a moisturizing sunscreen:
– Murad Essential C SPF30: Feels luxurious while providing sun protection, ideal for non-intense sun exposure in the UK.
Night Skincare Routine:
Evenings start with a deep cleanse. I prefer balms for their solid application:
– Beauty Pie Hot Oil Cleanser: Removes makeup effectively, leaving no residue.
– Neal’s Yard Frankincense Cleanser: Offers a rich texture and soothing aroma, perfect for a thorough cleanse.
My evening routine alternates between retinol and hydrating products:
For retinol:
– Skin + Me Daily Booster: Customizable with a gradual increase in actives, providing great results.
– Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR: Suitable for sensitive skin, can be used day and night.
– Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6: Offers hydration alongside potent retinol effects, reducing dryness.
On non-retinol nights, I focus on hydration and soothing:
– Aveeno Calm + Restore Triple Oat Serum: Provides instant hydration relief and is a recurring favorite.
– Beauty Pie Youthbomb Peptide Cream: Highly hydrating while delivering beneficial peptides.
That’s a wrap for my preferred skincare choices in 2023. Looking forward to future updates and sharing more with you. Remember to subscribe for more content!
