I had always dealt with troublesome skin. Clogged pores and acne have been a struggle for as long as I can remember. My on-the-go lifestyle never gave me the time to craft a skincare routine. Time and time again, I was left frustrated by each blemish that appeared, even after countless trips to the dermatologist. I wanted to desperately make a change, to prioritize my skincare, but how?
Over winter break, I realized my want had metamorphosed into a need. I accredit TikTok for kickstarting my transformation, as the aesthetic skincare routines still flood my For-You page every day! I researched products that worked for others with troubled skin like me and got recommendations from friends and family. I crafted a detailed routine that is quick enough to do before my 9am but still effective. Below are the products that saved my skin, and I know they will help yours look as radiant as ever!
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum
Rise n’ Shine! This vitamin c serum is the perfect way to wake your skin up each morning. Packed with nutrients and antioxidants, this morning serum replenishes your skin to keep it plump and dewy. Since I started using this product, I’ve watched my dark spots and scars become lighter and my skin become much brighter.
Drunk Elephant A-Passoni Retinol Cream
Retinol was definitely an addition to the skincare routine I wanted to implement. My sister raves about how her retinol drastically aided her breakouts. I chose to try Drunk Elephant’s cream, as the brand encourages mixing and matching different products from their numerous lines. Because of retinol’s strength I only use this product twice a week however since then, I have noticed a drastic difference. My breakouts are not only smaller but much less frequent and for the cherry on top, it prevents wrinkles and anti-aging…. never too early to start!
Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
As you can see I’m a huge advocate for Drunk Elephant’s clean line and product but, this is hands down my my favorite! Similar to the retinol cream above, I only use this serum once or twice a week at night, as it is relatively strong. But the reason why this product stands out from the rest is because it exfoliates dead skin and tightening your pore overnighting. This has serum leaves your skin silky smooth, hydrated, and fixes uneven shading / blemishes… definitely a must buy on your next Sephora run!
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
This product may seem ‘ordinary’ but it’s anything but that. The Ordinary’s ultra-moisturizing serum is the perfect cure to dry skin and Dallas’ bipolar weather. Like many, I always stayed away from overly-moisturizing products because I have naturally oily skin. Unlike other products, this serum is uniquely lightweight and incredibly nourishing. When doing my skin care routine, I like to moisturize my face with this product before using the retinol cream in order to protect my skin and prevent irritation.
Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser
My sister introduced this cleanser to me, and I will never stray away from it again! Picture a luxurious spa trip on a summer getaway: that’s what this cleanser smells like. The superfood cleanser has all-natural ingredients yet still can wash away the heaviest amounts of makeup. Selling for $12 at Sephora, the price is not only extremely affordable but a little size sized amount goes a long way!