One of my most asked questions is what I do for my skincare. I’ve learned a lot over the years of creating and following a skincare routine. It’s important to use high quality, medical grade skincare products and to know your skin.
Three clinically proven anti-aging products you should be using daily:
- Vitamin C in the morning
- SPF after your skincare
- Retinol in the evening. First time users should start with a lower dose of retinol (.25 or .5) then work your way up to a higher dose (1.0). Retinol helps boost collagen production and cell turnover to reduce the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles.
A year ago I changed my birth control which resulted in the worst acne I have ever had in my life. Not ideal. My normal to dry skin was now oily and acne prone. What worked previously, no longer did and I had to completely change my skincare routine.
Below is my hormonal acne prone skin before using plant based medical grade skincare:
Cute, right? Needless to say I’m so excited with the improvement in my skin, and it has only gotten better over time. The best results following any skincare routine come with using the products correctly and consistently.
5 products that made a big difference in my skin:
1. Vitamin C serum in the morning
2. SPF daily
3. The peel pads that transformed the texture of my skin
4. Retinol at night
5. Dr. Dennis Gross LED Red Light Therapy Facemask increases collagen production
Heres a break down of my full skincare routine and how to layer these products properly:
My AM Skincare Routine:
1. Cleanser – I cleanse 2x with Monat’s Be Purified Cleanser for oily skin with my Foreo electronic face brush.
2. Essence – I use a few drops (two shakes) of Monat’s Essence in my hands and gently press into my face, neck and décolletage. An essence helps prep your skin to help your serums soak deeper into your skin.
3. Toner – I use 1 pump on face and neck with a cotton pad. This Obagi Nu-Derm Toner brightens the skin, lightens dark spots and evens out complexion.
4. Vitamin C Serum – This is your anti-aging serum. I’ve heard great things about Monat’s Vitamin C Serum (use one pump) but this Skinceuticals C E Ferulic has been one of my holy grail products for years. It’s pricy but I only use three drops a day and it lasts me all year.
5. Moisturize – I use one pump of iS Clinical Hydra-Cool Serum. This serum contains antioxidants, vitamin B5, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and protect the skin.
6. Sunscreen – A must final step for every skincare routine! I love Monat’s Sunveil Mineral SPF 30. Made with hyaluronic acid, botanicals, and antioxidants, this hydrating formula gives the skin an extra veil of sun protection. It’s lightweight, and doesn’t leave a white cast like most zinc oxide sunscreens. I use two pumps.
My PM Skincare Routine:
Optional: If I have make up to take off, I’ll use either this Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm that smells amazing or I’ll reach for Monat’s Make Up Vanishing Balm.
1. Cleanser – I cleanse 2x with Monat’s Be Purified Cleanser for oily skin with my Foreo electronic face brush.
2. Essence – I use a few drops (two shakes) of Monat’s Essence in my hands and gently press into my face, neck and décolletage. An essence helps prep your skin to help your serums soak deeper into your skin.
3. Blemish Defense – If I have an active breakout I’ll either spot treat it with a drop of SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense salicylic acid or I’ll apply 3-4 drops of iS Clinical’s Active Serum to my entire face to combat an allover breakout.
4. Rewind Serum – 1 pump on face and skin. This anti-aging serum with peptides, AHAs, hyaluronic acid and Monat’s exclusive Rejuvenique S prevents and corrects uneven skin tone, age spots, loss of elasticity, and wrinkles for a smoother, brighter complexion.
5. Retinol – I use 1 pump on face and neck. I have previously used Skinceuticals retinol but I’ve been loving Monat’s vegan retinol alternative Botanic Bakuchiol that is more gentle on your skin and still gives you the same results. This product helps with cellular turnover. If you’re not using a retinol yet, start now. You’ll thank me later.
6. Eye Smooth – A little goes a long ways. Use a rice size amount. Try not to tug or drag your under eye skin. I tap the product into my skin with my ring finger. I love Monat’s Eye smooth. Mine is currently empty, so you know it’s good.
7. Moisturize – I use a dime size amount of Monat Be Purified oil-free moisturizer all over my face and neck for smooth and hydrated skin.
I know this seems like a lot, especially if you are just learning about the importance of skincare. Monat has created a simple 4 step custom routine depending on your skin type (sensitive skin, normal to dry skin, or oily skin). Purchasing one of these skincare routines would be a great place to start!
I strongly believe taking care of your skin is just as important as taking care of your body. While I believe beauty is more than skin deep, I also believe you should feel confidently beautiful with your skin. If there is anything you should invest in it’s your skincare.
If you would like help creating your own custom skincare routine with medical grade, plant based products; click here and fill out this 30 second consultation and I’ll give you product recommendations based on your skin. Plus, if you sign up as a VIP you’ll get 15% off your current order and all future orders.
If you enjoyed this post, then you’ll love this post on my top beauty products of 2021.
I hope this info educates and encourages you to create your own skincare routine. LMK below any questions you have about skincare.