New monthly favorites is finally here! This time I want to introduce my skincare routine to keep the break-outs away.
I've mentioned in several beauty posts that I don't have the best skin and I break out easily (and still do if I am not careful), but I think I finally found a skincare routine using products that work with my skin. The key is to cleanse thoroughly and to moisturize, but in an oil-free way.
This is essentially water for your face. I do use tap water to wash my face, but it just feels nice to spritz some of this on before and after I wash my face. It's great for sensitive skin (as the website notes), and it really does soften and moisturize my face. They have this in a travel size, which is great.
This is actually very similar to the Shu Uemura cleansing oils, but I happened to be in Shinokubo (Tokyo's Korea Town), and decided to give this one a shot. It definitely does its job - all my makeup is off in one wash, no rubbing, just light circular motions with some water and your fingertips. A dermatologist I spoke with recently told me this is the best way to remove makeup and dirt. I use this only at night before I use a regular cleanser.
This is the most gentle cleanser ever. I use a foaming sponge to get it really foamy, and gently cleanse my entire face with it. This is especially made for oily sensitive skin, so it's perfect. A little goes a long way too. The one I use seems like it is only sold in Japan, so I think
this is a similar version sold in the U.S.
After cleansing and spritzing on more thermal water, I apply witch hazel with a cotton ball. Yes, I am aware that the website says it is used for first aid, but it is an astringent and I swear they sell it in the skincare section in Japanese stores! (that's where I got mine). Anyways, this stuff is amazing. It gently removes any and all traces of dirt. It may seem like I am crazy about cleansing my skin to the last bit, but I read an article that if you take the time to apply makeup, you should also take more time to remove it well at the end of the day. It is the best way to avoid break outs and imperfections on the face. This astringent is alcohol-free, and I use it as a toner.
This is also an important step in my routine. La Roche-Posay is a a great skincare line that has amazing products for sensitive skin. This essence in particular smooths the surface of the skin while unclogging and minimizing the appearance of pores. I think
this is a similar product sold on the U.S. site. Lovely product.
Fragrance free, for all skin types, light, non-greasy, broad spectrum protection, enriched with vitamins A, C, and E, PABA free, non-comedogenic (does not clog pores). I think that explains this product well. Non-comedogenic is a key word.
I can't and will not let go of this product. I've been using it for over half a year now and it does wonders. Paraben and sulfate-free, this is a non-greasy cream that really awakens dull skin. It's almost like a mask I wear overnight, finding my skin looking so much healthier in the morning no matter how tired I am.
The perfect sunscreen for the face. It is water resistant, fragrance-free and tested on sensitive skin. No problems with this one.
I hope this helps if you also have sensitive, acne-prone skin like I do. I'm not saying you will never break out because I still do sometimes because of stress or hormonal factors, but this routine has helped me significantly. I think because I take my time to cleanse and prep my skin, it feels and looks better than before. It's the first thing a person sees, so it might be best to take extra care of it :)
I would love to read any suggestions, any questions, concerns, or even any comments if you have used these products already. Love reading your opinions!
Have a great week! (almost the end of summer - enjoy it!)
Love,
Samantha Mariko
