Skin Care Routines

6-Step Skincare Routine For Acne-Prone Skin

Table of Contents:


I had been struggling with acne-prone skin for years before I discovered Korean skincare products. You see, I didn’t want to use the typical products you buy from your local drugstore because they are filled with chemicals and all sorts of other ingredients that can irritate your skin.

Many effective Korean skincare products can help treat both mild and severe acne. I’ve spent thousands of dollars on different skin-care products, and these specific products may help give you the best results if you combine them into one single routine as a part of your typical daily facial care regimen.

There is not a single person who wishes to have acne. If you find yourself suffering from acne, you will have tried every remedy that you have heard from friends as well as what you read on various websites. Today, I’m going to share with you the list of Korean skincare products for acne-prone skin that I have accumulated to help keep acne at bay and for good.

A basic skincare routine looks like this:

  • Oil cleanser (PM)
  • Gel cleanser
  • Toner
  • Treatments
  • Moisturizer
  • Sunscreen (AM)

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through the link.

1. Heimish –  All Clean Balm

This balm is from a Korean brand named Heimish (hey-mish), which focuses on bringing you products with natural plant-based ingredients.

Use this product as the first step in your skincare routine to remove makeup, sunscreen, and dirt.

The brand’s website states that the product removes waterproof products, and I have read a few reviews supporting that claim.

Benefits: 

  • Removes waterproof products
  • Super gentle for sensitive eyes
  • Vegan
  • Comes with a scooper
  • Natural non-irritating fragrance

2. COSRX – Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

Low-pH-Good-Morning-Gel-Cleanser

Use this cleanser as the second step in your night skincare routine to wash off any excess makeup or oil residue from the first cleanse.

A gentle cleanser with low pH (mildly acidic) cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural oils and drying it out. Perfect for acne-prone skin, breakouts, and pH balancing.

You can read more about this cleanser in my previous article: Top 10 Popular Korean Skincare Products 2022

Benefits:

  • Gentle cleanser
  • pH is similar to that of skin
  • Refines the skin’s texture
  • Cleans blackheads
  • Gentle on the sensitive areas of the skin

3. Isntree – Green Tea Fresh Toner

isntree green tea toner

This step is all about protection and balance. This toner is infused with 80% green tea extract that will help nourish, brighten, and revitalize the skin.

Toners are usually applied to the skin to minimize the visibility of pores, and restore hydration to your skin.

Benefits:

  • Protects the skin
  • Balances out the skin’s pH
  • Minimizes the appearance of pores
  • Tightens the skin temporarily
  • Controls oil production
  • Has Centella extract which is a great ingredient for acne
  • Moisturizes the skin

4. Glow Recipe – Strawberry Smooth BHA + AHA Salicylic Serum

This step is where you need to apply the treatments and serums to address certain skin concerns. This powerful lightweight serum gently smooths rough textures and clears out pores and breakouts.

Benefits:

  • Visibly refines pores
  • Hydrates the skin
  • Gently smooths rough textures
  • Soothes and decongests skin
  • Helps prevent blemishes
  • Minimizes breakouts, blackheads, and whiteheads

5. Isntree – Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream

After cleansing and treating your skin, it is crucial that you moisturize it and provide hydration, and this product will do just that! It will thoroughly hydrate the layers of the skin while still being lightweight and long-lasting.

Benefits:

  • Lightweight
  • Long-lasting hydration
  • Strengthens the moisture barrier
  • Brightens skin
  • Fades hyperpigmentation

6. Isntree – Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++

As the last step in your AM routine only, apply sunscreen. This step is non-negotiable if you are going out, even on cloudy days. Sunscreen must be applied every day.

Benefits:

  • Broad-spectrum
  • Blocks harmful UV rays
  • Long-lasting
  • Some say it feels hydrating
  • No white-cast
  • Does not pill
  • Does not sting the eyes

Acne is a skin condition that can be caused by many factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, and stress. It is not always easy to find the right acne care routine and products for your skin type. However, with a little research and patience, you can find the perfect products for your needs.

Top 10 Popular Korean Skincare Products 2022

In the ever-evolving world of skincare, finding the right products that cater to your unique needs can often feel like a daunting task. With a multitude of options flooding the market, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and uncertain about where to start.

The good news is that Korean skin care products are becoming a skin care revolution over the years.

By the end of this post, you’ll be armed with valuable insights to help you make informed choices when it comes to your skincare routine.

Say goodbye to the confusion and hello to a radiant, confident you, as we unveil the ultimate solutions offered by these top 10 Korean skincare products. Your path to flawless skin begins here.


This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through the link. 

The most popular Korean skincare products of 2022: 

1. COSRX – Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

About the brand: COSRX was established in 2013 by Sanghoon Jeon. The company is devoted to helping customers find solutions for their skin concerns using its products which contain ingredients free from Parabens, Artificial fragrances, Artificial dyes, Alcohol, Mineral Oils, Essential Oils, and more. 

About the product: containing as much as 96% snail secretion filtrate, this mucin essence adds moisture to hydrate the skin while improving damaged skin and restoring vitality. Snail secretion is known to benefit aging skin and soften the appearance of fine lines. 

Free from: parabens, ethanol, synthetic surfactant, artificial pigment, synthetic fragrance, triethanolamine, and phthalate. 

Texture: slightly sticky/slimy 

Benefits of the product:  

  • Fades dark spots 
  • Improves skin texture 
  • Anti-aging 
  • Soothes damaged skin 
  • Hydrates dry skin 
  • Affordable 

How to use: apply a small amount to the entire face after cleansing and toning, then continue with your moisturizer. 

Best for skin type(s): dry, sensitive 

As I read through the reviews of people on the internet, there were mixed opinions. Some saw great changes to their skin while others saw little to no change at all.  

I would purchase this product just to try it out myself since it does no harm, but I think that I would be using it less often because I have oily skin. 

2. LANEIGE – Cream Skin Refiner

About the brand: LANEIGE is a Korean brand dedicated to skin hydration. In their labs, they have been studying Water Science for 25 years, because they believe it is the secret to great skin. 

About the product: this product is meant to moisturize the skin and reinforce the skin carrier with a rich amino acid from white leaf tea water, it is formulated with mild ingredients to moisturize sensitive skin caused by dryness. 

Texture: milky consistency 

Benefits of the product:  

  • Softens skin 
  • Moisturizes 
  • Soothes irritated skin 



How to use: you can spray on the face whenever your skin feels dry or after applying your makeup or apply a proper amount on the face and pat gently for absorption. If your skin still feels like it needs more, just reapply a layer on top. 

Best for skin type(s): dry, normal 

Worth the hype!

Super hydrating! 

Since we are approaching winter, I would definitely want to purchase this product to compensate for the lost moisture, even though I have oily skin, my skin sometimes has a tough time during the colder seasons. 

3. I’m From – Rice Toner

About the brand: I’m From is a Korean skincare brand that is all about Natural & Clean Beauty. It proudly lists all of the ingredients used in each product as well as the origin of the primary ingredient and the name of the farm that it was harvested from. The brand uses naturally derived ingredients and ensures that only the freshest ingredients are used in its products. 

About the product: This product contains ingredients that help you achieve a dewy look. Containing 77.78% goami rice extracts that replenish the skin’s moisture levels leaving it soft and supple and niacinamide to brighten the skin. This product is formulated with non-GMO ingredients. 

This toner is Vegan, Alcohol-Free, Fragrance-Free, and cruelty-free. 

Texture: almost water-like 

Benefits of the product: 

  • Moisturizes irritated skin 
  • Brightens dull skin 
  • Gently gets rid of excess oils and impurities 
  • Promotes a smoother texture 
  • Affordable 



How to use: pat onto the skin after cleansing. Can be used in the AM and PM. 

Best for skin type(s): dry, sensitive 

4. Isntree – Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++ – 50ml

About the brand: Instree is a brand that focuses on maintaining natural beauty using natural, safe, and clean ingredients in its products.  

About the product: a lightweight and hydrating sunscreen with a gel-like consistency, SPF of 50+, and PA++++, which means that this sunscreen will allow you to handle 10 times as much UVA exposure. It is recommended to reapply this sunscreen like any other sunscreen every 2 hours, but the upside of this product is that it makes your skin feel hydrated every time you reapply. 

Texture: soft, creamy, and light.

Benefits of the product:  

  • Applies smoothly with no white cast or sticky finish 
  • Great for daily use 
  • Hydrates the skin 
  • Moisturizing 
  • Very high protection from UVA 
  • Brightens skin 
  • Improves wrinkles 
  • Affordable 
  • 8 types of hyaluronic acid 
  • Skin barrier strengthening 
  • Oil and water balance 
  • SPF50+ 
  • PA++++ 


How to use: as the last step of your skincare routine, evenly spread a moderate amount on exposed areas.

Best for skin type(s): all skin types 

5. BEAUTY OF JOSEON – Calming Serum: Green tea + Panthenol – 30ml

About the brand: Beauty of Joseon is a clean, cruelty-free Korean brand that uses luxurious oriental herbs to create skincare for women in their 20s to 40s. The brand also reveals one’s natural beauty by improving its overall condition and resolving fundamental problems such as roughness and dull skin tone.

About the product: with 76% green tea and 2% panthenol, this product will calm, soothe, and moisturize your skin when it is feeling dry and in need of moisture. Green tea is an excellent ingredient that helps skin damage and prevents skin aging, as well as brightens the skin tone. The green color is not an artificial color, but the natural color of the ingredients. 

Free from: cruelty, paraben, mineral oil, artificial colors, phenoxyethanol, EU allergens, and PEG. 

Texture: light texture, spreads quickly, finishes semi dewy 

Benefits of the product: 

  • Calms the skin 
  • Soothes damaged, sensitive skin 
  • Prevents skin aging 
  • Restores healthy skin 
  • Whitening effect with rich vitamin C 
  • Naturally-derived calming and moisturizing ingredients 
  • Effective at an affordable price 



How to use: apply a few drops onto cleansed face and pat gently

Best for skin type(s): sensitive, mature

6. Axis-Y – Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum – 50ml

About the brand: Axis-Y is a community-focused brand that cares about your skin. Their vision is to develop products that are effective and made with natural formulas using the safest and most natural ingredients. Their products are free of parabens, artificial fragrances, mineral oils, silicones, talc, petroleum, and many more.

About the product: a serum for correcting dark spots, this product contains key ingredients for glowing, healthy skin (papaya, squalane, calendula, sea buckthorn, allantoin, Oryza sativa bran). This serum can be applied to the whole face, problematic areas, or as a sleeping mask.

Texture: gel-like serum, lightweight, and absorbs quickly into the skin

Benefits of the product: 

  • Treats oily, acne-prone skin
  • Revitalizes the skin
  • Prevents breakouts
  • Clarifies pores
  • Hydrates dry skin
  • Repairs damaged skin
  • Corrects dark spots
  • Brightens skin and fades hyperpigmentation



How to use: apply a small amount after toner to the entire face or problem areas and pat gently for absorption

Best for skin type(s): oily, acne-prone

7. ROVECTIN – Conditioning Cleanser

About the brand: Rovectin is a K-beauty brand that began with a brother wanting to help his sister’s skin which was severely damaged by chemotherapy. After that, Rovectin became the most trusted skincare brand among people across Korea. The brand believes that everyone should be comfortable and confident in their own skin using simple, safe, and effective skincare.

About the product: a gentle, low-pH, and hydrating cleanser that safely washes away daily rime without stripping the skin of its protective moisture barrier using clean and natural ingredients. This cleanser restores pH balance and cleanses the skin without irritation.

Free from: parabens, artificial colorants, artificial fragrances, mineral oil, and steroids. Cruelty-free.

Texture: it forms a foamy lather

Benefits of the product: 

  • Gentle cleanser
  • Restores skin’s pH levels
  • Hydrates the skin
  • Does not leave you with a dry-tight feeling



How to use: as the second step in double cleansing, massage the product into the skin in a circular motion then rinse with lukewarm water

Best for skin type(s): dry, sensitive, normal, combination, oily, irritated

8. COSRX – Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

About the brand: COSRX was established in 2013 by Sanghoon Jeon. The company is devoted to helping customers find solutions for their skin concerns using its products which contain ingredients free from Parabens, Artificial fragrances, Artificial dyes, Alcohol, Mineral Oils, Essential Oils, and more. 

About the product: light and gentle low pH cleanser that exfoliates dead skin cells and cleanses pores. Cruelty-free, ethanol-free, silicon oil-free, artificial coloring-free, artificial fragrance-free.

Texture: gel-like

Benefits of the product: 

  • Exfoliates dead skin cells
  • Refreshes the skin
  • formulated with natural ingredients
  • Soothes and strengthens the skin
  • affordable



How to use: use more and night after removing makeup

Best for skin type(s): all skin types

9. Klairs – Midnight Blue Youth Activating Drop

About the brand: the brand is a cruelty-free, vegan, and eco-friendly brand that focuses on sensitive skin. It first began in 2010 with its brand philosophy of no harsh ingredients, no animal testing, and products of high quality and reasonable prices.

About the product: a night serum that is meant to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It contains ingredients that fight and prevent aging to maintain youthful-looking skin.

Texture: light and sinks in quickly

Benefits of the product: 

  • Helps soothe redness and irritation
  • Hydrates the skin
  • Boosts a youthful appearance
  • Bright blue color (fun)
  • Not too sticky on the skin



How to use: apply 3-4 drops over the face after cleansing and before toner

Best for skin type(s): all skin types

10. Glow Recipe – Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops

About the brand: Glow Recipe is a Korean skincare brand that is built on the philosophy of taking it day by day, skin by skin. It creates gentle yet effective formulas to deliver results. It uses ingredients of the highest quality including antioxidant-rich fruit extracts.

About the product: a serum containing niacinamide that reveals an instant glow, helps brighten the skin, and also helps to reduce hyperpigmentation.

Texture: a thin, lightweight gel, absorbed quickly

Benefits of the product: 

  • Makes skin feel hydrated and smooth
  • Helps reduce hyperpigmentation
  • Gives the skin a glossy finish

How to use: can be used as a hydrating serum before moisturizing or as the last step of your skincare routine

Best for skin type(s): all skin types


After researching and reading all about each Korean skincare product, I gathered that the most popular products are the ones that are meant to calm and soothe the skin.

This means that a lot of people are having trouble with their skin being irritated or damaged. I will be keeping that in mind for the next blog post. I hope this list was helpful.

You can also find a nighttime skincare routine that may help you incorporate these products into.

Comment down below what skin type would you like me to create a K-beauty skincare products list for!

Why Skin Cycling is Actually Good for Your Skin + 4 Common Pitfalls

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through the link.

With all the ingredients in the market and beauty trends on social media, how can we build a consistent skincare routine? It can be hard to get a steady regimen but we all want glowing, glass-like skin!

Even if some of the products we use can be a bit irritating, like chemical exfoliants and retinoids, there is still a way to use them steadily!

Grab a FREE printable skin cycling calendar!

Not sure what chemical exfoliants are?
Check out this blog post.

This is how the social media skincare trend “skin cycling” has gone viral. But what is skin cycling? How can I incorporate it into my skincare routine? Who would it benefit the most? Continue reading to learn more.

In this article I will discuss:

How & why to cycle your skincare products

What is skin cycling?

Skin cycling is a term that was coined by Dr. Whitney Bowe, a board-certified dermatologist.

It is a skincare method that is based on a 4-day skincare cycle to achieve maximum efficacy with minimal irritation.

The concept behind it is not new, dermatologists have always been saying to not overdo it with active ingredients as these ingredients take time and multiple applications to get your skin used to them.

Dermatologists always recommend applying these ingredients every third night and using a gentle ingredient in between until your skin can tolerate strong topicals every night.

The goal of retinoids is to help clarify your skin.

skincare routine - moisturizing under eyes
Photo by MART PRODUCTIONPexels.com

It is basically keeping your morning skincare routine consistent while rotating the possibly irritating ingredients at night, mixed with a period of recovery and rest (AKA lots of hydrating and moisturizing ingredients).

The recovery and rest period can be subjective and personalized according to each person’s own skin type and routine. However, it is very helpful for people with sensitive skin since the skin has time to recover and regenerate after using the active ingredients.

Skin cycling schedule

AM routine stays the same, and PM skin cycling routine looks like this:

Night 1: exfoliate

Night 2: retinol

Night 3: recovery

Night 4: recovery

Repeat.

retinoid night - skin cycling
Photo by Ron LachPexels.com

This schedule is suitable for all skin types but you may need to tweak the cycle up or down according to your own optimal skincare routine.

For example, if you have overly sensitive and dry skin or rosacea, your skin might not tolerate the exfoliants and retinoids, therefore, you may want to cut down on these ingredients or add a third recovery night.

On the other hand, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may need to dial up the frequency of exfoliants and retinoids or reduce the recovery nights to one night instead of two.

Benefits of skin cycling

There are many benefits that come from adding this method to your regimen. The most important one is that your skin builds tolerance to active ingredients.

Chemical exfoliants and retinoids can cause skin sensitivity, irritation, and dehydration. By cycling them throughout the week, you help bring out the benefits of the ingredients in your skincare routine without irritating and dehydrating your skin.

Chemical ingredients can:

  • brighten skin tone
  • bring radiance to the skin
  • boost collagen production

Recovery days are key to allowing your skin barrier to repair fully.

woman doing her skincare routine - skin cycling
Photo by Andrea PiacquadioPexels.com

Chemical exfoliants get rid of any dead skin cells and will give you an immediate glow, this will increase the effectiveness of using retinoids the next night, it’s like working on a new sheet of skin.

How can I incorporate skin cycling into my skincare regimen?

Night 1: exfoliation

  1. Double-cleansing: LANEIGE – Cream Skin Milk Oil Cleanser and COSRX – Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
  2. Use chemical exfoliants (acids) on clean, dry skin: The Ordinary – Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution or The Ordinary – Salicylic Acid 2% Masque or SOME BY MI – AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum
  3. Apply a moisturizer: COSRX – Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream or Dr. Jart+ – Ceramidin Cream

Night 2: retinol

  1. Double-cleanse your skin
  2. Optional if you have sensitive skin or are new to retinol: apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer under your eyes, smile-line area, and below the mouth, this dilutes down the strength of the retinoid and allows your skin to adjust (known as the sandwich technique)
  3. Apply a pea-sized amount of retinoid by dabbing it onto the face, chest, and neck: IOPE – Retinol Expert 0.1% or The Ordinary – Retinol 1% in Squalane
  4. Apply a rich moisturizing cream

Night 3 & 4: recovery

  1. Use a gentle cleanser (or double-cleanse)
  2. Pat dry but keep the skin damp
  3. Apply a powerful humectant: The Ordinary – Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 or Haruharu WONDER – Black Rice Hyaluronic Anti-wrinkle Serum
  4. Moisturize immediately: COSRX – Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream
  5. Optional: pat an oil on your skin
skincare beauty products
Photo by Karolina GrabowskaPexels.com

Common pitfalls of skin cycling

  1. Sensitive and burning sensation on the eyelid area, around the mouth and nose, and neck

Solution: if you have sensitive skin, before using chemical exfoliants and retinoids, apply a thin layer of moisturizer on top of the sensitive areas to act as a barrier so that your skin can adjust, and avoid applying the active ingredients to those areas as well

  1. No improvement for oily acne-prone due to improper skin cycling

Solution: use a three-night cycle. Exfoliation night, retinoid night, recovery night, repeat. For exfoliation night, use a product with the ingredient salicylic acid. For the retinoid night, apply a higher percentage of retinol by seeing your dermatologist for a prescription strength product.

  1. Skin cycling for rosacea

Solution: for exfoliation night, use acids with a total concentration under 15%. For the retinoid night, use a gentle fragrance-free over-the-counter retinol or retinaldehyde. Add a third recovery night to make sure that your skin barrier has enough time to repair.

  1. Applying moisturizer immediately after the exfoliating product

Solution: you need to wait until the tingling sensation completely subsides before applying a moisturizer

The importance of maintaining an alternate skincare schedule

Skin cycling is a helpful concept when you want to have a consistent skincare routine in a busy and hectic schedule.

It is very useful for all skin types because you can tweak it as you like according to your skin type and tolerance. You get the best of both worlds, exfoliation, and hydration.

Even if you have sensitive skin, it does not mean that you can’t use really powerful chemical exfoliants and retinoids, it just means that you need to learn how to incorporate them properly into your skincare routine.

Of course, it goes without saying, SPF is absolutely crucial when using active ingredients in your skincare routine!

Will you start skin cycling? Let me know in the comments!

Let’s do this!


Double Cleansing Complete Guide

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through the link.


If you thought that the name suggests cleansing your face twice, then you’re mistaken. It is so much more than that and the benefits are plentiful.

This method is a very popular method of cleansing, especially as part of the K-beauty skincare routine, because it removes all the makeup, dirt, and bacteria that are on the surface of your skin without stripping the natural oils and drying it.

In this article, I will be going into the deets and benefits of the double cleansing method.

What is Double Cleansing?

As I have mentioned above, this method of cleansing skin is not about cleansing your face twice in a row. It is about using different types of cleansers to wash your face.

The first step is to use an oil-based cleanser.

This will remove sunscreen and makeup from your skin, including waterproof mascara.

Using an oil-based cleanser as a first step is highly effective for people with oily skin types as well as people who wear heavy makeup, for the reason that makeup and sebum dissolve in oil (lipophilic).

The second step is to use a water-based face wash to remove any remaining traces of makeup, sebum, and debris. It is important to make sure that you are using face cleansing products in order to avoid any irritation or damage to your skin.

Photo by Vitória Santos from Pexels.com

How to double-cleanse?

  1. Apply the oil-based cleanser to dry skin.
  2. Use your fingers or a cotton pad to massage the cleanser into your skin to help dissolve all the sebum, debris, and makeup.
  3. Wet your face with water.
  4. Apply the water-based facial cleanser by massaging it into the skin using your fingertips.
  5. Rinse with lukewarm water, pat dry, and follow with a moisturizer.

What are the benefits of double cleansing?

Having healthy skin always starts with a clean face. That is why face cleansers are a very important first step in any skincare routine. To add to that, it is crucial to choose the proper face cleanser that suits your skin type so you could actually benefit from it.

Applying the rest of your skincare routine products on a face with remaining sebum and debris is not as effective as applying them to a clean face.

Having a clean face with no debris or sebum left behind makes it better for your skincare products to be absorbed and benefit your skin.

Photo by Sora Shimazaki from Pexels.com

How often should I double cleanse?

This depends on the type of skin you have and whether you wear makeup on a daily basis or not. But in any case, applying a proper moisturizer afterward is a must.

The double cleansing method should only be done at night when you want to remove all your makeup and sign off for the day.

It is possible to double cleanse your skin daily, but you should always choose the right products that suit your skin type because you don’t want to over-dry and over-wash your skin.

Is double cleansing for everyone?

Double cleansing is highly recommended for people who wear makeup daily and people with oily skin.

However, if you have sensitive or dry skin, double cleansing may not be the way to go, as it can strip the skin of its oils, unless you use face cleansers with skincare ingredients that are hydrating and moisturizing.


Photo by Harper Sunday from Pexels.com



Products for dry skin




Products for oily skin




Products for sensitive skin


Retinol Guide: How & When Can I Incorporate Retinol Into My Skincare Routine?


If you want to start using retinol but don’t know when it’s best to add it to your skincare routine, here are some guidelines.

Keep in mind that there are no guarantees for any particular age range — and, a lot of people will tell you to start much sooner than what is on here.

If you feel like your skin has been healthy and happy without retinol so far, there is no need to rush right out and try it (at least not yet). Try another great anti-aging ingredient first.

Retinol, more commonly known as vitamin A, has been used in skincare and acne treatments for decades.

But, do you know when to start using retinol? How about how to use it?

This guide on when to start using retinol will answer these questions and more, so you can make the most of this powerful anti-aging ingredient.



This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through the link.


How do I incorporate retinol into my skincare routine?

Skincare Products - Retinol
Photo by Polina KovalevaPexels.com

Before you can use retinol, your skin needs to get used to it. This process is known as retinization and should happen gradually over a few weeks.

How gradual?

It depends on how sensitive your skin is and what type of retinoid you’re using.

For example, if you’re using an over-the-counter product with vitamin A (retinyl palmitate), then you could start seeing results after just two days.

On the other hand, if you’re taking prescription tretinoin (Retin-A), then it might take several months before any changes are noticeable.

If you notice any irritation during that time, stop using it immediately and talk to your dermatologist about ways to soothe your skin.

If you have very sensitive skin, don’t use retinol without talking to your dermatologist first.

It makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight and puts you at risk for hyperpigmentation. It can also irritate acne. So if you have sensitive skin and/or break out easily, make sure to use a low-strength retinol product and wear sunscreen every day (it’ll even help with wrinkles!).

In general, start using retinol at night so that your body has time to adjust during a slow transition period of about 2 weeks; then slowly introduce it into your morning routine once your body is used to it.



How do I check if my skin is sensitive to retinol?

woman applying retinol on her face
Photo by Sora ShimazakiPexels.com

Sensitivity to retinol is a possibility and usually goes away within several weeks of consistent use.

However, sensitivity to it has a higher chance of occurring if you start using a topical product with high concentrations too quickly. To prevent irritation and burning, it’s best to test yourself for sensitivity before jumping into a full-blown regimen.

Before you buy your first retinol cream or serum, dab just a bit on your skin at night and wait until morning to see how your skin reacts.

If it looks fine and isn’t red or flaky, then go ahead with using it regularly!

If you do experience any irritation after trying a product once (or even a few times), stop using it immediately until all symptoms are gone.



The benefits of retinol

Retinol is one of dermatology’s most powerful anti-aging weapons.

old woman sitting on the window
Photo by MART PRODUCTIONPexels.com

Found naturally in foods like carrots and cantaloupe, retinol has the following benefits:

  • help to exfoliate the skin,
  • reduce fine lines and wrinkles,
  • diminish dark spots, and
  • increase collagen production.

Retinol is a must-have for anyone over 25 who wants to protect their skin from premature aging.

It is applied right after double cleansing during your nighttime routine.



Retinol products

IOPE – Retinol Expert 0.1% – 30ml

IOPE – Retinol Expert 0.2% – 30ml

IOPE – Retinol Expert 0.3% – 20ml



Takeaway

Retinol is often described as a miracle worker—and it can help with everything from wrinkles to acne.

It helps your skin repair itself from damage and stop new breakouts before they start.

As we age, our hormones and oil production change, it’s important to use retinol if you want to keep your skin healthy for decades to come. The best age to gradually start introducing retinol to your skincare routine is mid 20’s.

That said, it’s easy to overdo it and end up with painful side effects—particularly if you start using it too early.

Retinoid Strength Chart
Retinoid Strength Chart

Comment below when you think is the best age to start introducing this miracle ingredient to your skincare routine.

The Skin Type Test – Ultimate Guide & Skincare Routines

Caring for the skin is important for everyone. It is the largest organ of your body and it needs to be taken care of.

There are many different skin types and it is important to know what skin type you have in order to take care of it properly. There are also many different products that can help with skincare, but it is important to find out what works best for you.

The importance of skincare cannot be overstated, as the health and appearance of your skin can greatly affect how you feel about yourself.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through the link.

How to figure out your skin type
(the ultimate skin type test)

This is the ultimate test to figure out once and for all, what your skin type is.

In order for you to do this test properly, you need to cleanse, rinse, and wipe your face dry using a soft paper towel and leave for 30 minutes to an hour without applying a moisturizer.

Cut a tissue into 4 pieces and blot each piece onto the following areas:

  • Forehead
  • Nose
  • Cheeks
  • Chin

After blotting your skin, look for your skin type in the following options:

  1. If the tissue has an oily residue after blotting all four areas, then you have oily skin.
  2. If the tissue has an oily residue after blotting forehead, nose, and chin, then you have combination skin.
  3. If there is no oily residue on the tissue after blotting, then you have dry skin.
  4. If your skin feels tight, itchy, and uncomfortable, then you have sensitive skin.

Now that you have figured out what your skin type is, let us move on to the next section where I give tips and dive into each skin type in more detail.

1. Tips for acne-prone skin types

Acne-prone skin is a skin type that is more prone to breakouts and acne. It can be caused by a wide array of factors, such as genetics, hormones, diet and stress.

It can also be triggered by external factors such as the environment or the products you use on your face.

Dealing with this skin type might be a tough task for some people. It often leaves you feeling insecure, frustrated and self-conscious.

But it doesn’t have to be like that all the time, with the right knowledge and care, your acne prone skin can be treated and managed well enough to live a normal life.

Here are some tips to deal with acne-prone skin:

  • Wash twice a day
  • Always apply a moisturizer after washing
  • Exfoliate 1-2 times a week, read more about exfoliation here Chemical Exfoliants – How to Get Smooth Skin
  • Apply sunscreen
  • Use a gel-based cleanser
  • Double cleanse
  • Dry your face with a paper towel instead of a regular towel
  • Use alcohol-free toner to help balance the oils in your skin
  • Try to not touch your face if your hands are not washed

5 best ingredients for acne-prone skin

  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s)
  • Salicylic acid
  • Benzoyl peroxide
  • Tea tree oil
  • Vitamin C

I have another article about essential oils and which ones are suitable for each skin type, you can read more about it here.

6-step skincare routine for acne-prone skin

  1. Cleanse gently
  2. Use a toner as astringent
  3. Apply acne treatment
  4. Moisturize using an oil-free moisturizer 
  5. Exfoliate 1-2 times a week
  6. Apply a clay face mask 1-2 times a week

2. Tips for sensitive skin types

People with sensitive skin are prone to irritations and allergies. They have a higher risk of getting skin infections, so they need to be more careful about what they put on their skin. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.

You can use fragrance-free products that are made for sensitive skin types to prevent any irritation from occurring on your skin. You can also use a moisturizer to help keep your skin hydrated and plump, which will help reduce redness or irritation from occurring on your face.

Sensitive dry irritated skin
Photo by Jenna Hamra from Pexels.com

The following list contains some tips for sensitive skin types that will hopefully help you:

  • Avoid products with fragrances. Fragrances can be irritating to sensitive skins, so avoid any products that contain them.
  • Always consult a dermatologist before trying new products or treatments. If your skin is sensitive, you may react differently than someone with normal skin would.
  • Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers. Don't use harsh chemicals, because they could irritate your skin even more and cause redness or other irritation in the areas where they were applied.
  • Avoid taking long hot shower. Hot water for long periods of time can strip away the natural oils of the skin.
  • Always apply SPF as the sun’s UV rays may be too harsh for sensitive skin types. Shiseido - Anessa UV Sunscreen SPF 50+

5-step skincare routine for sensitive skin

  1. Cleanse using a gentle lotion or cream cleanser
  2. Prep skin using an alcohol-free toner
  3. Apply a serum that is specific for sensitive skin, avoid any harmful and triggering ingredients
  4. Use an eye cream
  5. Moisturize using a non-comedogenic and fragrance-free water or gel based moisturizer

3. Tips for dry skin types

The best way to deal with dry skin types is to keep the skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and applying a moisturizer on a regular basis so that the outer layer of the epidermis can retain enough water.

There are many different types of moisturizers available, but it’s important to find one that suits your skin type.

Moisturizer jar for face
Photo by Ron Lach from Pexels.com

Some tips for dry skin types:

4. Tips for oily skin types

Oily skin is the type of skin that has excessive sebum secretion. It is a major concern for many people, and it can lead to acne or other skin concerns.

We all know how frustrating it is to deal with oily skin. It's difficult to find a product that suits your skin type and doesn't make you break out. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

Face close up
Photo by Angela Roma from Pexels.com

Here are some tips for oily skin types:

  • Use an oil-free moisturizer
  • Avoid products that contain alcohol and fragrance
  • Use a clay mask every week or two
  • Cleanse twice daily with a gentle cleanser
  • Apply the double cleansing method

5. Tips for combination skin types

If you have combination skin, you know how difficult it can be to find skincare products that work for your skin type.

Skincare products
Photo by Ron Lach from Pexels.com

Here are some tips on what combination skin types need in a skincare routine:

  • Moisturize: Combination skin types are prone to dry patches and oily areas. You need to moisturize the dry areas and use oil-free products on the oily areas.
  • Exfoliate: Skin cells build up on the surface of your skin and cause breakouts when they clog pores. To prevent this from happening, exfoliate twice a week by using a gentle scrub or mask that is appropriate for your skin type.
     
  • Clarify: Combination skin types often have large pores which can cause acne. To prevent this from happening, use a clay mask or a chemical exfoliant once or twice a week to clean out your pores.

  • Nourish: Combination skin types need healthy hydration and moisture to keep the skin soft and supple. Use an oil-free moisturizer with hydrating ingredients.

The basic rules of the correct order of a skincare routine

A good skincare routine is important for your skin. It is also important to know the correct order of a skincare routine, in order for you to gain the most benefit.

Gone are the days of you asking “which goes first, moisturizers or serums?”, “what do I apply first, eye cream or toner?”, or “when do I apply a toner?”.

If you apply these rules then you will have the best and most beneficial skincare routine specific for your skin type.

Always start with a clean slate.

woman applying moisturizer on her face
Photo by Yan Krukov from Pexels.com

Remove makeup and cleanse your face properly but gently.

Layer skincare products properly.

The most important thing in a skincare routine is absorption.

Apply products from thinnest to thickest.

Here is a basic skincare routine that applies to all types of skin:

  1. Cleanser
  2. Toner
  3. Eye cream
  4. Serums and treatments
  5. Moisturizer
  6. Sunscreen

A Simple Guide to Skincare Routines


To sum up

Three very important points in any skincare regimen are, one: your skin type, two: ingredients in the products, and three: order of layering skincare products. If you master these three golden points, then you can achieve the perfect personalized skincare routine for your skin type.

Have you taken the skin type test? Let me know in the comments section below what type you have!

I hope you enjoyed this article and more importantly, found it useful.

Basic Nighttime Skincare Routine

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through the link.

A well-maintained skincare routine is key to healthy skin.

Skincare routine is an important part of our daily lives. It should be done every day, and it usually consists of a few steps.

If you are wondering what does a nighttime skincare routine consist of and why is it so important, then you might want to continue reading this article.


What is a skincare routine?

Skincare routine is the process of taking care of one’s skin and includes cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and sometimes exfoliating.

A skincare routine can be as simple or as complex as a person wants to make it.

A good routine starts with cleansing and ends with moisturizing.

Photo by Ron Lach – Pexels.com

The nighttime skincare routine is the most important one because it’s the time when your skin repairs itself from all damage done throughout the day.


What are the benefits of having a nighttime skincare routine?

Having a nighttime skincare routine is important for your skin. It helps you restore the natural balance of your skin, which is disrupted by stress, sunlight, and other factors.

A nighttime skincare routine can help you to achieve a healthy and glowing complexion.

You can make sure that your skin cells are regenerated at night and not exposed to harmful UV rays or pollution that might harm it during the day.

The right nighttime routine will also help you to get rid of acne or other problems with your skin.



What is a proper nighttime skincare routine?

Creating a nighttime skin care routine is not that difficult, but it’s important to include the right ingredients in order to get the best results.

A nighttime skincare routine is crucial to maintaining healthy and glowing skin. Especially in the colder months, when our skin becomes dry and sensitive, it needs extra care.

In this article, I will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to create your own nighttime skin care routine.

The first step is to cleanse your face thoroughly before bedtime.

It’s important to cleanse your face before bedtime, as this will remove any makeup and debris that may have accumulated throughout the day.

You should also use a toner or astringent to get rid of any excess dirt on your skin. For some people, this can be a nightly ritual in itself. Retinol is applied in this step also. You can read more about how and when to add retinol to your skincare routine here.

Take a shower or bath and use a gentle cleanser or an exfoliator if necessary.

The second step is to apply an AHA night cream that contains acids and retinols, which will help with anti-aging and smoothing wrinkles.

The third step is to moisturize your skin with a light moisturizer before bedtime – preferably an oil-free one so you don’t disturb the oils on top of your skin that are naturally produced overnight.

Finally, you should apply lip balm before going to sleep because it will help to prevent chapped lips.

You can always add other products to your routine, depending on your skin’s needs and concerns.

Serums can be applied after toning, eye creams after moisturizing, and face masks before lip balm.


Why it is important to have a well rounded nighttime skincare routine.

A well rounded skincare routine is important because it helps your skin to stay healthy and hydrated.

Some people think that a nighttime skincare routine is not necessary because they don’t want to wake up with greasy skin in the morning.

But this is not true.

Your nighttime skincare routine should be just as long as your morning one if you want to get the most benefits out of it.

To top it all off, you can also meditate for 5-10 minutes and write in your gratitude journal the things you are grateful for.

6 Easy Facial Exercises for a Slimmer, Defined Jawline

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through the link.

Introduction: What is jawline massage?

Jawline massage is a type of facial massage that aims to reduce the appearance of jawline fat to achieve a more defined jawline.

It also reduces the appearance of double chin and neck fat. It also has many other benefits such as improving blood circulation, reducing stress, relaxing muscles, and improving lymphatic fluid circulation in the face and head.

A jawline massage is done by using both hands to gently stroke along the jawbone and around the ears in a circular motion. The fingers are used to apply pressure on the soft tissue under the jawbone as well as on top of it.

The technique can be done by yourself or with a professional. It’s important to use light pressure when massaging your jawline so that you don’t cause any damage to muscle tissue or nerves.

The massage will be more effective if you do it regularly.

woman massaging jawline using quartz face roller
Photo by Yan Krukov – Pexels.com

Face yoga exercises you can do anywhere, anytime!

If you want to get a perfect jawline, follow these facial exercises.

  1. Clench and release. Clench your jaw for 10 seconds and release. Repeat this exercise for 1 minute on a daily basis.
  2. Chin lifts and kisses. Tilt your head upwards and blow kisses in the air. Repeat this as many times as you can.
  3. Fish face. Suck the insides of your cheeks and smile. Maintain this form for 10 seconds, release, and repeat 10 times.
  4. Vowel sounds. Say the vowel “O” followed by the vowel “E”. Exaggerate the sounds and repeat 10 times.
  5. Massage jawline. Using two fingers, massage from the chin and the lower jawline to the earlobes.
  6. Head tilts. Tilt your head upwards, push your chin outwards, and move your head from left to right while keeping your chin pushed outwards. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
Woman massaging jawline with her hands
Photo by MART PRODUCTION – Pexels.com


Facial massage tools and products.

Conclusion: Why I love massaging my jawline and why you should start too!

The reason why I love these exercises is that they can be done while you are laying down on the couch or even in bed.

woman relaxing on the couch
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko - Pexels.com

If this isn’t enough of a reason to make you start exercising your jawline, then I don’t know what is!

Moreover, these exercises, if followed on a regular basis, can give you the perfect, defined jawline without paying a penny and in the comfort of your own home.


You can check out more relaxing activities to do at home in my article here.


Share in the comments section if you have any other facial exercises that you regularly do.

Shopping Cart