I’ll be the first to admit, I like simplicity. I come home at the end of the day exhausted; the last thing I want to do is spend a half-hour getting ready for bed.

The thought of a “skincare routine” always intimidated the hell out of me. It seems silly, but I felt totally uneducated and behind the eight-ball in terms of understanding what the hell toner is and why I should be wearing moisturizers and SPF and the importance of a good cleanser and all that good stuff.

I avoided the whole ordeal for 23 years. But then that dreaded q word happened - quarantine - and my mental health did a bit of a spiral. So much of the self-love progress I’d been making over the years began to disappear, and I was struggling to stay afloat. 

Part of self-acceptance and love is taking care of my body, and I was letting my skin go uncared for. I’m not always good at putting on sunscreen when I’m outside; I get lazy with washing my face and opt for a semi-effective makeup wipe instead.

I could give a flying leap about what others think about my face or my body (most of the time), but I feel it’s important to care for the skin I’m in because I only get one go-around. 

So, slowly but surely, I began exploring skincare products, and rather like it feeling like a chore, I found the new additions fun and exciting. I’m still constantly trying new products, but here are my favorites so far:

Night: Simple Hydrating Cleansing Wipes 

I like to start with Simple makeup wipes, especially when I’m feeling super lazy (or a lil wine drunk) and don’t want to take the effort to wash my face. They ensure that I still go to bed with a clean face. But even when I do want to do a thorough cleansing, they’re my first step to remove all of my makeup and the sludge on my face. 

Face Wash: Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser

I’m obsessed with this cleanser. It’s on the higher end of the price scale for face wash, but as it’s vegan, formulated without harsh chemicals, and cruelty-free, there’s an added layer of comfort in knowing what I’m putting on my skin is safe and gentle. I have sensitive skin, but it leaves my face feeling fresh and not at all stripped or irritated. As a bonus, it can also be used as an exfoliating mask if left on for five minutes.

Budget-Friendly Alternative: Cera Ve Hydrating Cleanser

I know splurging on prestige skincare can be tough (#brokegirllife), so I also wanted to mention another favorite face wash. CeraVe’s Hydrating Cleanser is gentle and helps remove the rest of the grime from my face, and is also the first step in my morning routine. It’s budget-friendly without compromising quality.

Toner: Mario Badescu Rose Water

This toner is gentle and smells really good. I put some on a cotton square to wipe off any makeup or impurities remaining on my face after cleansing. It’s like a fresh start for my face. 

Serum: HyaLuronic Acid 2% + B5

The Ordinary is the hottest new low price-point skincare line (thanks @TikTok) and for good reason. Its quality way exceeds the cost. This serum is good for dry skin and can be used both morning and night before moisturizers and creams. It’s super hydrating and leaves my skin feeling much more alive.

Night Cream: Tula 24-7 Moisture Day and Night Cream

After the serum, I rub on the Tula Day and Night Cream to lock in moisture and ensure that my skin is getting the ultimate treatment while I sleep. That way, I can wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day! 

Mask: Boscia Matcha Magic Super-Antioxidant Mask

I love to use this mask as a wine-night, self-love kinda treatment. It’s thick, cleansing, and will be sure to get a few laughs from your friends on Zoom… I like to call it my “Wicked Witch of the West” treatment. 

Moisturizer: Cerave Gentle Moisturizer is a great light, hydrating moisturizer for an affordable price. It’s highly recommended by dermatologists and won’t clog your pores. I always put it on after showering or washing my face.

SPF Serum: Pacifica Sea + C Sheer Face Serum

This serum is great as a layer under your makeup, or it works on makeup-free days as well! I wanted a product that would protect me from the sun without requiring the application of CC cream or clog-poring traditional sunscreen.

I know the thought of starting a skin care routine can seem daunting and overwhelming… the truth is, I’m still learning myself! The best way to go about it is to introduce products slowly, so that they just become part of your daily life and you don’t have to think twice about remembering to use toner on your face. My beauty routine is constantly changing (pretty much depending on my mood and level of exhaustion/intoxication). YOU know your skin and body best; do what’s best for you!! Feel free to hit me up with any comments, questions or suggestions! :) Happy self-care!!

xo