Staff Daily Skincare Routines: Mandy

I'm a self-proclaimed beauty/skincare junkie so I am always on the hunt for that perfect product. Unfortunately, my skin is quite sensitive so it's a challenge to find products that perform well and don't aggravate my skin. I've tried countless of products and though I'm still looking for that miracle worker, I've found a routine that works for me. 

I'll go through each of the steps in my routine and describe how night and day differ (if applicable). 

Step 1: Cleansing 
 
AM: I always start my morning off by gently cleansing my skin. If I'm feeling a bit dry, I reach for Spectro Gel. Otherwise, I'll go with Philosophy's Purity Made Simple. 

PM: My cleansing routine is kind of a long process but I really feel that a good cleansing is the key to clearer skin. I always start off by using an oil cleanser on dry skin to remove all of my makeup. I then use my Clarisonic with Philosophy's Purity Made Simple to make sure every single trace of makeup is gone. 

Step 2: Toning and Moisturizing 

AM & PM: My morning and night toning and moisturizing routine is pretty much the same. I will tone my skin, apply a serum, an eye cream and then a moisturizer. I do take a bit of time to massage my face when applying serums and moisturizers. I find that the skin absorbs products better and it also helps with blood circulation. 

Depending on the weather, I'll reach for one of two moisturizers. On dryer days, especially winter days, I'll slather on my trusty Créme de la Mer, it does a really good job calming down my sensitive skin and brings back the moisture to my skin. On warmer days, I almost always use my Philosophy Hope in a Jar. I also firmly believe in makeup primers; so in the morning, after moisturizing and before applying makeup I apply Philosophy's The Present Clear Make Up. I feel like primers keep the 'bad stuff' (from makeup) from absorbing into your skin and they also create a smooth base for application. 

Step 3: Masks, Facial Treatments

PM: I am a bit, ok, not just a bit, but very obsessed with facial masks and treatments. I always think that when you use the right kind of treatment, it really makes a huge difference. Sheet masks are my go-to when my skin is dull. 

If I feel that my pores are a bit congested, I go for exfoliants. I like Dermalogica's Gentle Cream Exfoliant because it's a chemical exfoliant that is gentle enough for my skin. My absolutely favourite physical exfoliant is Philosophy's Microdelivery Peel. After using it, my face appears a lot brighter and feels as smooth as a baby's bottom! 

And I'm pretty sure you guys have heard Alexandra and I rave about Laneige Water Sleeping Pack, but it's worth the mention again. 

Step 4: Anti-Acne 

To keep my skin clear, I count on topical acne treatments. I always reach for Mario Badescu Drying Lotion when I have whiteheads (I know, gross), and Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion when the breakout is still beneath the skin. Lately, I've been loving Neutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Eliminating Spot Gel since it's invisible and I can take it and apply it anywhere. 

One little trick I have is to apply a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide gel when I'm breaking out in a certain area and I can't seem to get rid of it. I apply it underneath my primer and the treatment is strong enough to help stop breakouts but gentle enough not to overly dry my skin out. 

Here are some of the products I mentioned above or products I use (or have used) on a regular basis: 


1. Philosophy Purity Made Simple (US$20.00)
2. Fancl House Cleansing Oil (US$33.00)
3. Kokuryudo Hipitch Cleansing Oil (US$13.40)
4. Clairsonic Skincare Brush (US$195.00)


1. Mario Badescu Skincare Special Cucumber Lotion (US$15.00)
2. Fancl White Essence (US$43.99)
3. Philosophy The Present Clear Makeup (US$28.00)
4. Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair (US$85.00)
5. Philosophy Hope in a Jar (US$39.00)
 

1. Fancl White Clear Mask (US$32.50)
2. Philosophy Microdelivery Peel (US$68.00) 
3. Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant (US$37.00)
4. My Beauty Diary Sheet Mask (apxC$12.00)
5. Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque (US$46.00)
6. Laneige Water Sleeping Pack (US$25.00)
 

1. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion (US$17.00)
2. Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion (US$17.00)
3. Neutrogena Rapid Clear Spot Gel (US$8.49)
4. Acne.org 2.5% Benzoyl  Peroxide Treatment (US$16.52)

So, let me know what skin tips you have for me! Do you have a similar skin type? How do you take care of it?

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