A few months ago I wrote my first “Liz’s Lineup” post which detailed my everyday makeup routine. I received a lot of great feedback (which surprised me) so I decided to attempt it again, this time with my nightly skincare routine. A few years ago I started reading all about Korean beauty and natural skincare. Since then, the obsession has just grown, (along with my Sephora point count). Recently, I also began using the holy grail in anti-aging ingredients: Retinol. I started slowly with The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinol and gradually worked my way up to their Retinol 1% in Squalane and eventually the Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Treatment (which is working well, with almost no irritation). Since Retinol can be irritating to the skin I have put my favorite chemical exfoliator, P50V Lotion by Biologique Recherche, on hold for a bit. It kills me to stop using it since I love the nightly tingle, but I really do not want to overdo it. The Balencium Ceramide Cream is so soothing and perfect to pair with a retinol regimen. I like to mix the Balencium with the Drunk Elephant Marula oil for a hydrating outer layer that is not too heavy for summer nights. Last step- the Laneige lip sleeping mask for keeping chapped lips at bay. Here is the entire lineup, as applied each night:
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil: This oil-based cleanser “melts away makeup and dissolves impurities, leaving your skin clean, soft and radiant.”
REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk: “A gentle cleansing milk that leaves sensitive, delicate, and reactive skin purified, calm, and soothed.”
COSRX Advanced Snail Mucin Essence: “This highly concentrated formula contains 96% snail mucin, a powerful ingredient known to aid in skin repair, hydration, and brightness.” It preps the skin for products to come. Recently I purchased the cult favorite SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, so I am waiting for the magic to happen!
Skinceuticals B5 Gel: “Formulated with a rich dose of hyaluronic acid and tissue-repairing vitamin B5, Hydrating B5 Gel restores and binds moisture to the skin for enhanced radiance, suppleness and comfort” I mix it with the Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster to enhance the nourishing effects.
Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Solution Treatment: “A potent and uniquely formulated retinol solution that hydrates and delivers remarkable anti-aging benefits with a controlled-release delivery system to allow for even, consistent absorption.”
Murad Resurgence Retinol Youth Eye Serum: “This fast-acting eye serum, powered by retinol tri-active technology, visibly minimizes lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet, lifts, and firms skin and brightens dark circles.”
Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Oil with the COSRX Balencium Comfort Ceramide Cream: These two together form a powerful hydrating barrier.
Lastly: The Laneige lip sleeping mask, Grande Lash-MD Eyelash Enhancing Serum and Sio Super EyeLift. These adhesive patches “temporarily smooth wrinkles, plump skin, plus super-moisturize by morning; over time, the intense hydration further improves the appearance of skin.” In short, they are little miracle workers (recommended to me by my neighbor)!
I know this seems like a lot of steps to follow, and it is! There are plenty of opportunities to combine steps, like my moisturizing mixtures. Hopefully, your interest has been piqued and some of these products may seem appealing. I know that this routine is working for me, but what will work for you?
