Sensitive, Dry Skin Help
If like me, you are blessed with semi-sensitive, dry skin, you know that you can’t use just anything on it. Well you can, but it will get super mad at you.
Keep in mind, I am not an esthetician. I’m simply sharing what has worked well for me. If you have a similar skin type, this skincare routine may help you too.
I’ve answered several messages lately from people asking what they can do for dry, flaky skin that seems to look worse with foundation so I thought I’d break down what I do to keep my dry skin behaving itself. I struggle too though. It’s kind of like fitness. You have to keep up with it.
Also, omg. I turn 34 next month. How?! I feel 27 inside. Let’s hope my skin stays looking that way too.
NON-FOAMING CLEANSERS
Since this is the first step in your skincare routine, it’s key to start off on the right foot. These non-foaming cleansers are gentle and don’t leave my skin feeling tight and stripped. They still do a good job of breaking up dirt and oil and removing makeup.
OIL CLEANSERS
On heavy makeup days, or super dry, winter day, I like to use oil cleansers. How to use: I apply to dry skin, massage and then gently wipe away with a baby washcloth.
FACE MISTS
I use face mists for toning, refreshing and hydrating the skin because they are about the gentlest way to apply a skincare product. How to use: I mist these on after cleansing, over makeup to add glow and hydration or to refresh mid-day. I’ve talked about them more here.
CHEMICAL EXFOLIATORS
Now don’t let the word “chemical” scare you away. It seemed harsh to me at first but it’s actually a gentler way to remove dead skin cells. Alpha hydroxy acids work on the surface to loosen and “eat up” dead skin cells in a way.
OILS
Oils have single-handedly repaired my skin. I don’t know how I ever lived without them. How to use: At night, I press one on top of my moisturizer and for day time, I mix a few drops into my daily moisturizer. Depending on ingredients, oils can help brighten, hydrate, soothe and repair. I’ve discussed them more here.
HYDRATING MASKS
Because I’m dry, I can’t use intense clay masks as they only leave my skin dehydrated. That doesn’t mean I have to miss out on masking all together! Masks can hydrate and calm inflamed skin, leaving it refreshed, plumped and glowing.
MAKEUP APPLICATION TIPS
Even the softest of makeup brushes can sometimes cause micro-abrasion, thus irritation for me. That’s why my skin does best when I apply my foundation with a damp beauty sponge. I find it adds a little hydration and no irritation. Here are my favorites.
- Beautyblender
- Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge
- EcoTools Perfecting Blender Duo
- LimeLife by Alcone Blenderful
DON’TS
- Gritty scrubs. The is gentle enough though.
- Double cleansing. A good cleanser should remove makeup, dirt and oil.
- Brushes, exfoliating pads. I no longer use my Clarisonic but love my .
- Makeup wipes
- Waxing and threading
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