Friends, I need your help today! Now that we’re well into winter, my skin is taking a beating and this is the year I’m resolving to figure out a combination of products that helps remedy the situation. As a bit of background, I have combination skin. In the winter I have a very slightly oily t-zone on occasion, but tend to have extremely dry skin elsewhere. Around the corners of my nose, my cheeks, and the corners of my eyes are especially bad. My skin can get so dry in the winter that any kind of moisturizer burns like crazy and it’s not uncommon for me to walk around looking like I have chapped, windburned cheeks when I do not. Pretty! I feel like I’ve tried most everything in the drugstore so this might be the year where I need to invest in my skincare essentials so I can get things under control. I’m also open to using different products day and evening if that helps – I’ve just kind of always been too lazy to think about it that hard in the past. These products are ones I’ve either heard great things about, have started trying myself or saw on YouTube and decided to add to my list. (That bit about YouTube? Totally true.)
So, ok. This is where you come in! Lay it on me. What are your holy grail winter skincare products? I want to know about your favorite serums, moisturizers, cleansers, cleansing oil and waters, toners, exfoliators, the works. I try to stick to products that are free of parabens, sulphates, fragrances and alcohol where possible, although if something works well for you I want to hear all about it even if it might not perfectly fit that bill. I know you guys are way cooler than me and have your winter skin all figured out and have some wisdom to share, so please do! I’ll report back in a month or so and let you know how I’m making out.
[Row 1: Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate | Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream | Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado | Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Eye | Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil | Row 2: Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Toner | Bioderma Cleansing Water | Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm | First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream.]
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Nicole
Thursday 29th of January 2015
I am partial to Dermalogica products, as that is what I work with. They do an enzyme exfoliate called Daily Microfoliant, which can be used daily & only has a slight grit to it. It can also be added to your face wash, so it saves a step. If you have broken capillaries or red skin, a heavy scrub wouldn't be good, go for an enzyme. Many skin care lines carry them, with an acid listed as an ingredient (lactic, glycolic, salicylic). Anything with salicylic acid shouldn't be used on pregnant women. I looked at the Clarins, the reviews sounded good! I do think it's a little weird that you apply it, then go about your day without washing it off, especially if it's supposed to be getting rid of dead skin. But, if people like it, it's doing something right! :)
Nicole
Wednesday 28th of January 2015
Dermalogica is a great line as well. They make a moisturizer called Barrier Repair & it feels like butter on your skin. It's meant for your face, but feels great on hands too. One thing that is still important in the winter is exfoliation. 1-2 times a week is enough, and don't use any kind of apricot scrub, as it tears up your face. Oh & I saw a comment that stated that after cleansing her skin is dry...if that's the case, change your face wash. Most drug store cleansers are very drying in general, so it's worth the splurge for a upgrade. Paula's Choice is a good line too! One way to try products is to get the travel kit to see which ones you actually like & make a difference in your skin, without a huge investment. I'm an Esthetician, so any questions, just ask! :)
cyd
Wednesday 28th of January 2015
Thanks, Nicole! This is so helpful. Any exfoliator recommendations? I've been thinking about trying out the Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner. Right now I'm working with a deluxe sample of the Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash and I swear it's the best cleanser I've ever used. Maybe a little rich for summer months, but I am loving it on my winter skin. Thanks so much for your advice!
cyd
Wednesday 21st of January 2015
Morgan, thank you for introducing me! This is a completely new to me brand, but it looks amazing. I'm down with the luxe over clinical part, too. All in all, I really have good skin (I think of my sister who has battled acne and blemish issues her whole life) so it just always seems excessive to pummel my skin with too many chemicals and harsh ingredients when it really just needs some love. ;-) Thanks for this!
cyd
Wednesday 21st of January 2015
Sydney, thank you for that suggestion! I have heard really amazing things about the Paula's Choice line and I think the prices seem so reasonable, especially considering the amazing reputation. I am going to add this one to my list! My list is getting so long now! lol ;-)
cyd
Wednesday 21st of January 2015
Jill!!! This is so so so good. I'm clapping over here and will soon be going on a pinning spree so I can all of these to my board I've got going. ;-) lol I can't thank you enough for taking the time to break this all down for me. I needed this...it's inspiring me to start mixing and matching products and getting really consistent with it, because my skin currently hates me and I have to make amends with it ;-)