Skincare steps you don't want to skip!

IMG_9646.jpg

If you know me, you know my obsession with skincare.  I'll do everything I can to maintain a youthful glow.  Taking care of my skin is like a ritual for me.  My skincare regimen is 4-6 steps in the AM and 6-8 in the PM.  They change based on what my skin needs.  Along with the obvious SPF and a med spa facial here and there, I’m sharing my top 3 skincare practices I can’t live without:

1.  Double cleanse in the PM

With all the sweating from workouts, pollutants in the air, and makeup products, you want to make sure that your skin is completely clean.  This way your skincare products get the chance to work deep into the skin.

My evening regimen always begins with a cleansing oil.  I use Scratch Goods Tea Tree Cleansing Oil or Boscia Cleansing Oil.  It's slick consistency picks up all the makeup and any build up from the day off my face and neck.  After the cleansing oil, I finish with a second cleanser for another deep clean with Boscia Detoxifying Black Charcoal Cleanser.  With the warming effect it feels totally clean without drying.  You want a clean canvas for your skincare products to really do its job.

2.  Hyaluronic Acid

I love the Glo Daily Hydration.  It’s hyaluronic acid serum with vitamin B locks in moisture like crazy.  It creates a perfect base for my other moisturizers, sunscreen and makeup.  Chicago weather can do a number on your skin so I need this all year around!  In order to take advantage of ever single drop, I apply the serum right to my face rather than waste it in my palms.  Thanks for the tip Pamela!

IMG_9641.jpg

3.  Lymphatic Drainage Tools
Tools like the jade roller and facial dry brush stimulate the lymphatic system.  This extra self care step will assist in moving the lymphatic fluid that may be stagnant and drain out built-up toxins or other blockages that can create puffiness.  It's a fantastic holistic way to boost circulation and rejuvenates skin too!  Oh, and get these tools from legit sources.  I buy mine from Scratch Goods, a local Chicago (woman owned, woot woot!) skincare shop.

How to jade roll:
I place mine in the fridge or freezer to increase the de-puffing benefits.  The chilled jade roll is like a shot of espresso for your face. SO GOOD!  After my entire skincare routine (cleansing and moisturizing), I firmly roll upward and outward.  Start from your chin, and don't forget to include your neck.  Use the smaller end around the eyes.  For best results, jade roll daily.

IMG_9642.jpg

How to dry brush:
The facial dry brush is not the same as the body dry brush so the bristles should be softer and the tool itself is smaller.  I like to begin with clean naked skin.  Start with soft strokes from the chin moving outward to the hairline.  Don't forget your chest and neck moving upward.  After dry brushing, I will apply a mask (only if I have the time), rinse, then apply my moisturizers.  You can go straight into applying moisturizers but I like to rinse before.  Do what works best for your skin.  Dry brushing only needs to be done 1-2 times a week.

I hope this gives you some SKINspiration.  Are these steps new to you or is something you've always done?  What are your go-to skincare tips or tricks?  Let me know in the comments!