Evening Skincare Routine

Hello lovelies!

As promised, part deux (oohh look at me so cultured) of my skincare routine, you can catch up with part I here if you haven't already. As you can tell by the title, in today's post I'm going to breakdown step by step my evening routine and the products I use to take care of my complexion; contrary to my morning routine though, this one requires a little more time and products. I can only speak for myself, although I'm sure many of us are guilty, that I spend a good amount of time (and money) on makeup products that not only make me look better but also last a decent amount of time on my face, i.e. primers, foundations, mascaras, etc. Therefore, I believe it's only fair that I use the right types of products and take the time to remove my makeup thoroughly so that years from now my skin has a chance to look as good as Demi Moore's (one can only dream).

1- Removing Makeup. Now don't get lazy on me girls: Put down the wipes! Yes, they are very convenient/fast and I must admit I've been guilty of reaching for them on drunken nights, but in the long run they really aren't removing all of your makeup or helping your skin. I am a big big fan of cleansing balms, especially the Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm and as of late, the Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel (even the names make me feel so much better than "makeup removing wipes"). Although they have different textures, both work the same way: I apply on dry skin, something that takes a while getting used to, massage all over the skin to breakdown all my makeup (including all my eye makeup), add just a smidge of warm water to help emulsify (turn into a "milky" consistency), and then remove with a towel or cloth that I ran under warm water. I can't even begin to explain how good and instantly relax my skin (and I) feel after removing all my makeup! To me, it's like the equivalent of slipping into a hot bath.

2- Cleanse. Now that all my makeup is off, I like to go in with a separate cleanser, which are actually the same ones I use in the morning. I use either Boscia Purifying Cleansing Gel or the Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash. Both are simple, easy to use gel cleansers, and they make my skin feel extra clean to prepare it for the next step.

3- Toner. After cleansing I follow up with the Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3, which is formulated for my skin type (there is also 1, 2, and 4). When you find the perfect one for your skin, toner is pretty much a "do it all" type of product: it removes and controls excess oil, tightens pores, helps reduce breakouts, and brightens/softens the complexion. I just pour some on a cotton pad, run it through my T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) where I am oiliest, and finish off the excess on the cheeks.

4- Serum. I know using an oil seems like something suited more for dry skin, but actually using the right oil helps balance out the skin, whether it is oily, sensitive, and even acne prone. I've spoken about the Kiehls Midnight Recovery Concentrate before and I don't know who they have making this stuff, maybe Jesus, but overall it is an instant boost for my skin. It brightens it overnight and helps lock in the hydration from my night time moisturizer, making it more effective and helping my mornings look a little less scary every time I look in the mirror. If only I can say the same for my hair. Warning: the next two products are also from Kiehls, what can I say I love the brand, and if you want more details about any of them you can check out this post.

5- Moisturize. Kiehls Ultra Facial Cream is hands down the most incredible moisturizer I've used (I'm on my second tub). It is ultra hydrating and sinks into the skin beautifully. Next, I use a separate moisturizer for my under eye area: the Kiehls Creamy Under Eye Treatment with Avocado. I know it says "creamy" in its name, but this takes the cake for super ultra creamy. It is an unusual texture though, because it starts out very thick, but as you continue to dab in it turns into a very thin almost watery consistency. A little does go a long way with this one; I feel I don't need to buy another ever again.

6- Extras. Now, contrary to the products I just talked about, the next two products I use every other day or when needed. I love scrubs! I feel they are the easiest way to instantly smooth and brighten skin, but they can be abrasive, which is why I only use them after my cleanser every three days or on a day I feel extra grubby. Two of my favorites: Simple Skincare Smoothing Facial Scrub and the ridiculously expensive Kate Somerville Intensive Exfoliating Treatment.
My skin is not particularly acne prone, but I do get the odd hormonal spot every now and then, which is why I like to keep a spot treatment handy to keep the situation under control. The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo is great because it's formulated with benzoyl peroxide, which I find to be better and stronger for blemishes than salicylic acid. I usually apply it after my serum, and before my moisturizer; it can also be used during the day, but I find using it once at night is enough for me.

Before I finish up the post, I wanted to give you a little tip when it comes to skin care product application. Always remember to allow a few seconds for each product to sink in before applying the next. And as for the order in which to apply, just remember to go from thinnest to thickest: toner (watery), serum (oil), and moisturizer (cream or gel).

I really hope these recent skincare posts have been helpful in some way, but as I've mentioned before skincare has to be suited for your own needs. It's important to identify your skin type (problem areas) and do a little bit of research, whether online or at a beauty counter. Also, skincare can be quite pricy, so try to get your hands on samples: never be afraid to ask for them! It's your money and if you can, you should make sure what you're purchasing will work for you. Please let me know in the comments which are some of you're skin care staples and how they've worked for you!

Thanks for reading!