Skin care [1] is something I got into as a teenager; I was tired of my hormonal breakouts and jealous of girls who's skin just glowed, until I realised there was something I could do about it. I feel like I've tried so many different things at this point, and, through lots of trial and error, I've found something that works for me. I use most of my skin care products at night, and I made a small New Year's Resolution [2] at the beginning of the year to always complete my routine before I go to bed. I enforce this by not allowing myself to physically get in to bed until my face is washed, and it's worked shockingly well.
My nighttime skincare philosophy is pretty simple. I've found that, with my skin, less is more. I have combination sensitive skin, so I try not to overwhelm my complexion with too many products. I also treat my nighttime routine as an opportunity for self-care, and use a couple of masks a few times a week. It's important to note that I'm not a doctor or esthetician, just someone who wants constantly glowy, clear skin. These are the 12 products I use to get there.
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm
This Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm [4] ($34) is the first step in my routine. I like it because it really removes my makeup in a way that feels both effective and gentle.
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser
I'm a big believer in the double cleanse, so I follow up my first step with this classic gel-based Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser [5] ($20).
Dr. Barbara Sturm Cleanser
If I'm feeling fancy, I'll use this foaming Dr. Barbara Sturm Cleanser [6] ($70). Yes it's pricey, but it feels like a cloud on your face. It's the most enjoyable cleanser I've ever used.
Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner
Next comes toner, and I've been using this Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner [7] ($45) for years. It doesn't strip my skin or make it feel tight, and I like it as a second step.
Shishedo Facial Cotton
Ok, hear me out. The Shishedo Facial Cotton [8] ($12) is not your drugstore cotton round, but if you have sensitive skin, or have to take off stubborn eye makeup, there's nothing better than this.
Summer Fridays R + R Mask
Now we're at the mask portion of the night, which I like to use two to three nights a week. My go-to right now is this Summer Fridays R + R Mask [9] ($26, originally $52) because it has the unique distinction of being moisturising and exfoliating.
Glamglow Supermud Clearing Treatment
When my skin is acting up, I reach for this Glamglow Supermud Clearing Treatment [10] ($59). It's the most potent clay mask I've tried, and it helps clear out my clogged skin in minutes.
Kora Organics Noni Glow Sleeping Mask
If I want a real glow, this Kora Organics Noni Glow Sleeping Mask [11] ($48) is it. I apply it in place of my moisturiser, and the results the next morning are pretty incredible.
Herbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum
We are now at the serum portion of the routine, and at night I've been trying this Herbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum [12] ($54). I'm at the point in my life where I need to start using retinol, but as previously stated, my skin is sensitive, so I'm starting with this plant-based retinol alternative, and right now, it's been working wonders.
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream
Finally, I pat some moisturiser onto my face, neck, chest, and hands. The Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream [13] ($30) is a constant go-to. It works with every skin type and doesn't break me out.
La Mer The Moisturising Soft Cream
When I'm feeling fancy, I reach for this La Mer The Moisturising Soft Cream [14] ($180). It's not too thick and not too thin, and it makes my skin glow, which, as you know by now, is all I really want.
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
The last step in my routine is the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask [15] ($20). It's thick as can be and smells like berries. I apply it and wake up with soft lips; what more could you ask for?