ootdfashion
This past winter, which I’m calling my Winter of Discontent, I’ve been fine-tuning my skincare routine. Even though spring is here, I thought it would be good to document what I was doing, more for my own record than to follow any seasonal trends. I imagine people in the future, while they browse with Google glasses or relax on hoverboards, might find these posts interesting, like a glimpse into skincare routines of the past.
This routine is all about balancing retinol and moisturizers. I’ve been gradually trying to use stronger retinoids, like Medik8’s Crystal Retinal 10 and 20, but my skin often becomes itchy and tight. I’m not one to tolerate discomfort just for beauty’s sake. So, to counteract this, I use a lot of heavy-duty moisturizers between retinoid applications. It’s like a see-saw, applying rich creams to keep my skin comfortable.
I’ve also discovered the importance of layering this winter. Usually, my routine is simple—cleanse, serum, and moisturizer—but I’ve added an extra layer to fight off the tightness. A great find has been the Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator, which works wonders under whatever else I apply.
Here’s my routine: in the morning, I quickly cleanse with micellar water, follow with an antioxidant serum—either the Skinceuticals Discoloration Defense Serum or SkinGredients Skin Protein—and finish with sunscreen. Evening cleanses might involve a clay cleanser, goat milk cleanser, or a cleansing balm. After that, I use a facial mist, like the Josh Rosebrook mist or Emma Hardie’s spritz. For my eyes, I rotate between a few creams like Murad Retinol Eye Cream or Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream.
When it’s a retinol night, I switch up the routine and apply retinol after cleansing and then a rich night moisturizer, like the Weleda Skin Food Light or Lumene Night Balm. If needed, I’ll mix in a drop of facial oil with my moisturizer to seal everything in.
This list gives a snapshot of my current routine, and there’s a video for more details.
