I’m not going to sit here and write that I’m a dermatologist expert; “Stick with me and all your skin dreams will come true”. But … I can say that I do fall on the side of what some would define as ‘good’ skin, and so I’m hoping I’ll be able to share at least a little wisdom and advice for those who want it.
Just before we get started, this is not sponsored – all of these products I have bought myself with my hard-earned pennies.
To those thinking “You were just lucky to have good ‘skin genes’ ” – that may be true to some extent. I also have a back of an 80 year old women with impending operations so I’m somewhat pleased someone managed to grace me with some balance ;) So whilst genes do play a big factor, I also know my own skin can vary substantially if I’m using the wrong products or not taking care of it. This is the part I want to shed some light on!
Pineapple Yoga Matt from Wild Body Active.
First thing to know is that I change my skin care products pretty regularly. Something doesn’t sit too well with me about using the same creams and cleansers on your face day in day out for years. I tend to follow the antibiotics rule of when you use something too much, your body or skin becomes more immune to it’s effects. I could be barking up a crazy tree, but it seems to have worked for me. So of what you see below, some are staples that I will never change because I’ve tried everything else and these are consistently the best, others I might swap in for a new pair at some point, just to give different ones a try. Either way, what I’m using now is working a treat so let’s dive in!
Skin Care Rules:
I only have a few, but I abide by them as if my life depended on it.
My Skin Care Products:
Suki Purifying Foaming Cleanser
It’s citrusy, all natural, goes a long way and doesn’t dry out your skin. The apple enzymes in the cleanser remove top layers of dead skin which can lead to congestion, and it purifies the pores. It feels light, meaning the skin has a real freshness and cleanness about it after using it. I’m really loving it.
2) Suki balancing facial oil
I love this night oil. It’s rich and feels like your skin has a healthy dose of moisture but it doesn’t stay on the surface or feel greasy once it’s absorbed. I would have thought applying an oil to my face each night would mean I’d wake up with oily skin, but it’s just super hydrating and is said to balance the sebum & bacteria production. I don’t use it every evening now, probably once every other because my skin doesn’t feel like it’s needs that moisture hit each time. It also goes a really long way, only needing one small pump each use.
3) Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser
Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser, 6 fl. oz.
You may be wondering, why two cleansers? Well I bought both my Suki one and this together due to the reviews I read and I’m so glad I did. This one is only to be used once or twice a week as it’s pretty strong. The Glycolic Acid in the cleanser almost acts as an exfoliant that cleans deep, breaks down make up and re-balances the skin. Whenever I have used exfoliators on my skin before with ‘beads’ or scrub like textures, it leaves my skin horribly dry and dehydrated. So far, this one has been fantastic and the perfect supplementary cleanser for that deep clean and dead skin removal once a week.
4) Nivea Natural Fairness Eye Make-Up Remover
Nivea Daily Essentials Double Effect Eye Make Up Remover (125ml)
This is a staple in my bathroom cupboard and has been for years. Hands down, the best (and reasonably priced) make up remover that is gentle on the eyes and eyelashes, which doesn’t cause any stinging and effectively removes your makeup without having to claw away every last lash (and I don’t have many so I cling onto them for dear life!).
You can find it on most high streets – Boots is an easy one.
5) Coola Sunscreen
Coola Mineral Face Spf 30 Sunscreen Matte Tint, Unscented, 1.7 Ounce
Ahh, Coola! Since this little blue tube waltzed into my life, things haven’t been the same. Out of all of my skin care products, this is one you must buy. A mineral sunscreen made with organic ingredients that has a matte finish and most importantly will NOT make your skin oily or spotty! I’ve had to battle on holidays between wanting to protect my skin but knowing after a week of face suncream that my skin would start to break out. This is the lightest, loveliest, most fantastic sunscreen (they should really make me an ambassador) that is also extremely effective! I have never been burnt wearing this and the same applies for the lip stick. Wear these two together on your face and it’s an absolute game changer!
6) Clarins HydraQuench Cream
Clarins 113510 Hydra Quench Normal to Dry Cream 50 ml
Last but certainly not least, my day cream. I don’t wear it everyday, but for the mornings I wake up feeling my skin needs a hit of hydration, this is my current go-to. It doesn’t feel oily or greasy as most creams do and absorbs into the skin really well. I have always been a fan of Clarins products, with this one a particular favourite.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this post with an insight into my skin care regime! Any questions or thoughts on the products, please comment below :)
I plan to do a beauty / make up one if that’s of interest?!
Let me know!
LLG xx
Hello and welcome! I'm Carly, originally from London but currently enjoying a little adventure in Dubai. A travel and wellness blogger exploring the world one step at a time. Think fabulous food at undiscovered gems, unique destinations, skin care obsessions and so much more. This is my life, I hope you enjoy the ride!
Anne
October 30, 2018You should try kora organics! I’ve tried a whole bunch of their products and they are so wonderful- especially the hydrating moisturiser and purifying moisturiser (epic in hot climates).
Carly Neave
October 31, 2018Thanks Anne! Will give that a go :)
Marta
February 10, 2018Hi Carly!
Thanks for the tips, especially the one about work out. I usually go jogging after work and never clean my face beforehand.
Time to implement a new routine :)
Thanks!
Marta
Lean Living Girl
February 11, 2018Hi Marta,
You’re so welcome – glad it’s helped! A dermatologist said it to me years ago and it’s seemed so obvious to me ever since. Like with anything though … until someone says it you just don’t know :)
Carly xx