Have you ever felt like your skincare routine is just not doing the things? Me too… In fact, I’ve been winging it almost all my life. It’s only now that I realise a solid routine requires two things: consistency and commitment.
My Previous Mistakes
It’s safe to say that I had commitment issues. I never stuck to one product for over a month. I’d use it and expect results the next day. But life doesn’t work like that. My other issue? Inconsistency. I’d wash my face on one night, then skip the next two, exfoliate once in a blue moon and apply sunscreen every now and then. Like I said, winging it…
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How I Roll Now
I’ve learnt that there is no single product that works equally well for everyone. Because no two women are the same. Our skin has different needs. Though it would be great to have a miracle elixir that covered us all… #JustSaying
Because of that, I’ve customised a skincare routine suited to my own skin – which is actually quite oily. It took me a while to figure this out because my skin was constantly stressed out and seemed… dry!? Having finally narrowed down my products, now my routine is simple, effective, consistent and I’m committed to it… And do you want to know why? Because it works.
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My Morning Routine
I wash my face with Keihl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash (R520 at Kiehls online). It’s super-gentle and safe for sensitive skin, gently lifting dirt and oil without feeling like you just rinsed with paint stripper.
I chase that with Elizabeth Arden SUPERSTART Skin Renewal Booster (R1 000 at Edgars), which targets my skin’s surface layer. This is actually great for all skin types, so it’s definitely worth a try if you’re looking for extra glow.
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I follow that up with Nimue Sun-C SPF 40 sunscreen (R490 at Life Day Spa) just before I apply make-up. This sunscreen is the best thing that has ever happened to me. It’s lightweight, non-oily, protects my skin and has anti-ageing benefits – bonus.
My Evening Routine
I remove my make-up with Nivea Perfect and Radiant Micellar Water (R100 at Clicks). I love it because it’s enriched with vitamin E and doesn’t leave an oily residue. Also, I don’t have to rub like mad to get all the gunk off.
After that, I cleanse my face again and lock in all that moisture with Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Protectant Nighttime Miracle Moisturiser (R435 at Clicks). I promise, I wake up to smooth, hydrated skin – no dryness or oiliness.
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Last but not least, Sunday afternoon is ‘Mask Day’ – which I really enjoy. I’ll use use a different mask each time, depending on what my skin needs – but charcoal is always my first choice. L’Oreal’s Pure Clay Detox Mask (R160 at Clicks) is combined with charcoal, which actually acts like a magnet to draw out impurities.
Detox done. Then start the weekly routine all over again. And stick to it for max results. My skin is definitely thanking me…
