#aha bha before and after

[jonitasharma]

aha bha peeling solution

Refresh Skin Science's aha bha peeling solution for acne and exfoliating facial with added PHA making it the best for your skin. Boost Collagen & Unclog Pores.

Helps exfoliate dead skin cells.

Reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

Smoothens texture and tightens skin.

Hydrates and locks in moisture.

[bimb0-bunnie]

UR SO PRETTY N FEMININE, literal definition of bimbo barbie 🤭 please give the girlies some tips on make up, skincare, and overall being more girly! thnxs🌷

-🐶

hey girlie!! THIS IS SOSO SWEET AWEE!!! here are some tips i have n some of my secrets!! ૮꒰ྀི >⸝⸝⸝<꒱ྀིა 🧁☁️🐇🌷

1. finding the vibe🧸

it's not hard to be hyperfeminine or a bimbo, do a lil research n see what you like! i mean there are 100s of popculture bimbos to follow after (elle woods, karen smith, regina george, blair waldorf, holly madison, cher from clueless) and with the modern hyperfemininity movement you can really be any type of girlie.

i listed above my fav bimbos above! i personally hyperfixated on different things in each of their personalities or lifestyle! i wanted a girlie room like maddy perez, elle woods intelligence, blair waldorf and regina georges fashion nd confidence, holly madison's...just everything, etc. just observe and manifest! writing this all down in a journal about your new feminine lifestyle may help you concentrate on ways to make you more feminine!!

2. skincare and makeup🧼

now let's start with skincare!

cleansers: i love a double cleanse! an oil cleanser will remove sebum and other icky stuff in your pores it also helps remove makeup after a day of wear. foam cleansing is next this go deep into the pores in more hard to reach areas or used to take care of any acne

toners: i love how plump and soothing toners are! i prefer toners that hydrate my skin and provide a layer of hydration making toners the perfect way to prep for serums!

serums: by targeting acne, dark spots, dry areas, etc with serums boosts your skin youth and complexion. just remember retonoids on dry skin, exfloxiators like aha and bha on dry skin before hylaronics like peptides, snail mucin, etc. ampoules are after serums to lock in all other products

treatments: tretnoin is my lifesaver! along with aha/bha! those masks should be washed off well or bleaching of the skin can occur especially with benzoyl peroxide!

moisturizer: depending on your skin type and concern your moisturizer will be different but remember you want non-striping or exfloxiating ingredients, otherwise it won't work! at night locking these products in with an oil or ointment like snail mucin oil or aquahor!

fav skincare brands: anua, cosrx, beauty of joseon, centella, and innisfree

bodyyyyy🍡

smelling good makes you feel good! pair different scents together makes you feel amazing and will let ppl become intoxicated with you. this goes with dressing you body type! personally i believe pink goes on everyone but if you want you can go by you undertones to find the right shades and colors will look good on you along with dressing to your comfort.

pretty mini skirts, dresses, paired with a lotioned body smelling of cake and fruit...perfection!

princess treatment🛍

here are some misc.d tips i put together for you! hope this'll help more

treat yourself like a princess, go shopping, relax in bubble baths, keep your room clean, spoil yourself daily...you deserve it!

style your hair, whether it's dying it or curling it have fun! showing off how pretty your hair is allows for focus to also be on your pretty face! that means taking care of your hair is important too!

search for different makeup styles, like gyaru, korean style makeup, baddie makeup, soft glam, etc each style will provide a different image or facade. just find what works for you and facial shape, but that doesn't mean you can't adjust different makeup style to fit your features.

keeping track on your journey of being a bimbo! write down milestones, different products you choose to use or different styles you want to try. remember this is all fun!

[beautyandlifestyleblog86]

Say Goodbye To Acne Scars And Unlock Clear Skin

Acne scars can be a frustrating reminder of past breakouts, but fear not! With the proper skincare routine and the power of niacinamide, retinol, azelaic acid, and AHA/BHA, you can fade those scars and achieve the clear skin you've always desired. In this article, we'll explore how these incredible ingredients work their magic and provide you with an easy-to-follow routine for achieving optimal results.

Niacinamide: The Skin's Best Friend

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a superstar ingredient when it comes to fading acne scars. This potent antioxidant helps reduce inflammation, regulate sebum production, and improve skin texture. Incorporate a niacinamide serum into your routine to reap its benefits. Apply a few drops after cleansing and before moisturizing for maximum effectiveness.

Retinol: The Holy Grail Of Skincare

Retinol, derived from vitamin A, is a game-changer for acne scars and overall skin health. This ingredient boosts collagen production, speeds up cell turnover, and reduces hyperpigmentation. Start with a low-concentration retinol product and gradually increase usage to avoid irritation. Apply it at night, after cleansing, and before moisturizing, and always wear sunscreen during the day, as retinol can increase sun sensitivity.

Azelaic Acid: The Brightening Warrior

Azelaic acid is a multitasking ingredient that not only fades acne scars but also helps with redness, hyperpigmentation, and acne itself. This gentle exfoliant unclogs pores, reduces inflammation, and brightens the skin. Look for a 10-20% concentration product and apply it after cleansing, followed by moisturizer. Remember to patch test first to ensure compatibility with your skin.

AHA/BHA: The Dynamic Duo

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are exfoliating powerhouses that work wonders on acne scars. AHAs, such as glycolic acid, help fade scars by gently removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. BHAs, like salicylic acid, penetrate deeper into the pores, reducing inflammation and preventing future breakouts. Incorporate these acids into your routine 2-3 times a week, starting with a lower concentration and gradually increasing as your skin adjusts.

In Conclusion

Achieving clear skin and fading acne scars is within your reach with the help of niacinamide, retinol, azelaic acid, and AHA/BHA. Remember to introduce these ingredients gradually into your routine and always patch-test new products. Consistency is vital, so be patient and give your skin time to adjust. Embrace this powerful skincare routine, and soon enough, you'll be saying goodbye to acne scars and hello to a radiant, flawless complexion!

Note: For personalized skincare advice, consult with us for a tailored skincare routine

[ros3ybabe]

Current Skincare Routine(s) 🎀

I have a morning skincare routine and two separate night routines depending on the day of the week and what skincare products I use. For example, on a night I use my AHA/BHA toner, I do NOT use my retinal eye cream. I'll also include some tips that work for me at the end!

My skin type leans more towards Oily-Combination!

🩷 Usual AM Routine -

If I washed my face and did skincare the night before, I simply splash my face with cold water and pat dry with a clean towel. If I did not do my skincare the night before, I wash my face with the Cerave Hydrating Face Wash. This is the only face wash my skin likes, but I'm still looking for alternatives for my night routine!

Once I dry my face, I use the IUNIK Centella Asiatica Calming Gel Cream moisturizer. My skin loves this moisturizer. It helps with my redness and makes my skin feel so nice.

After that's soaked into my skin a bit, I rub in a layer of the Beauty of Joseon Rice and Probiotics SPF 50 sunscreen. I put this on my face and neck!

I typically apply a 2nd layer after the first one drys for some extra protection if I know I'll be outside for a bit during the day.

Cocoa Butter Vaseline or Blistex on my lips for some nice, not chapped lips before I do makeup and/or apply lip gloss/lip stick.

My morning routine is super simple and quick because I usually just want to get it done and move on with my morning. I still enjoy it, tho, because it makes me feel accomplished early on in the day!

🩷 PM Routine: Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

I have an app that breaks down my skincare routine so I'm doing this off memory and what I remember from my typical routine for these days, but I do know these four days are different from the others for sure!

Occasionally, I will double cleanse and use my Hiemish All Clean Balm to remove sebum and oil impurities, but I'm not sure how I feel about this cleansing balm yet.

I wash my face with the Cerave Hydrating Face Wash using warm water and do a final rinse with cold water. Of course, I pat dry with a clean towel. I am looking for a water-based foam cleanser to follow the oil cleanse, so if you have any recommendations, please let me know!!

I then use two cotton balls to rub some Cosrx AHA/BHA Toner along my face to remove dead skin and then I spray some of the toner on my face, patting it in gently with my hands. I have to be careful with my eyes cause it will burn them if I get it in my eyes.

While the toner is still a bit damp on my face, I pump some Cosrx Snail Mucin Essence onto my cheeks, forehead, chin, and a little on my nose and pat it in gently.

I let the essence dry a little bit and then apply some Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid serum while it's still damp. I pat this in as well, as it's better for absorption than just rubbing it in. I used to use the ordinary brand one, but omg, the Good Molecules one is so much better, in my opinion!!

I need to buy a new one, but occasionally, I'll use a niacinimide serum on my forehead, nose, above my upper lip, and chin as those are my more oily areas. I used to use The Oridnary Niacinimide, but I want to try to Good Molecules niacinimide.

Next, I use my Cerave Eye Repair Cream (the blue one) under my eyes for extra hydration while the hyaluronic acid absorbs into my skin.

Depending on how I'm feeling, I'll use either the Cosrx All in One Snail Cream or the Etude Soon Jung 2x Barrier Moisturizer to lock in everything. I usually choose the Cosrx Cream as I prefer it, but it again depends on how I feel!

A little bit of vaseline to end the routine so I can wake up with soft lips!

I feel like this night routine is more complex then my other night routine but it always depends on the products I use.

🩷 PM Routine: Tues, Thurs, Sun

I do not oil cleanse and instead just wash my face with the Cerave Hydrating Face Wash, patting dry after rinsing with cold water.

I then use some of the I'm From Rice Toner, patting it into my face. I layer this one on twice, being careful with my eyes cause this one will burn them like crazy.

I follow up with the Cosrx Snail Mucin Essence, patting it into my skin.

Next is the Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid serum.

After the serum dries down, i apply a quarter to a half pump of the Beauty of Joseon Retinal Eye Cream underneath one eye and another quarter to a half pump to the other undereye areas, patting in gently while avoiding my actual eyes. If there's any leftover I gently pat into the surrounding areas. I'm not sure how my whole face will react to retinal so I'm careful with this one.

I then rub some Cosrx All in One Snail Cream over my face to lock in all the other skincare products and moisture.

A little bit of vaseline to the lips to ensure smooth, soft lips when I wake up!

I haven't noticed a difference with the retinal yet due to my inconsistent use but I do like how it feels the first few times after I use it, so I plan on continuing it.

Now, for some Tips:

Pat your face dry, never rub it with a towel. Rubbing it causes friction and pulling on the skin while patting is way more gentle on the face.

Initially wash with warm water but always final rinse with cold water. A while back I heard this helps with your pores, so I've just always done it and it makes my skin feel nice, especially in the morning!

Try to use either paper towels or a departed face towel (not your body towel) when drying your face. I myself use a separate towel for my face that I wash 2x a week and my skin doesn't typically break out.

Brush your teeth before applying skincare! This way, you don't disrupt the skincare surrounding your lips when brushing your teeth, flossing, or using mouthwash.

Always wash your hands before starting your skincare routine to minimize bacteria getting on your face.

Always try to patch test and figure out what works best for your skin, never just use what's viral or popular because not everyone has the same skin type. I feel lucky that my skin typically likes most products, but my skin is very picky with cleansers. I haven't found a cleanser besides the hydrating cerave one that my face likes. (The B.Lab Matcha Foaming Cleanser was so stripping my face turned red and peeled in certain places, a definite no go for me.)

Korean/Asian based skincare typically focuses more on hydrating the skin, while Western skincare tends to focus more on drying out the acne. I personally, as you have read, love Asian based skincare. Most of what I use is Korean skincare, and I'm still looking to expand my skincare collection because I love it so much!

Do your research! When I find a product that interests me, I watch pintetest and tiktok reviews, read the reviews on the actual shopping app, and read as much as I can on the Asian Beauty subreddit before making a purchase. I also like to read ingredient lists, application directions, and details on products, and I always Google what products can and can not mix together. it's helped me determine what to buy and what not to buy, and so far, my skin has loved it!!

Try to wash your pillowcases at least once a week and avoid touching your face with dirty or greasy hands. Also sanitize/disinfect your handheld devices/audio devices (cellphones, iPad or tablets, headphones, etc), eye glasses/sunglasses, and really just keep anything that touches your face as clean as possible. All of this helps to minimize how much bacteria and dirt make contact with your face.

Research different things that may help with improving skin. Ice rolling, gua sha, silk pillowcases, physical exfoliates, face masks, etc. Look into stuff that might help your skin or make a difference in your skins appearance and health.

This should've been higher up, my apologies, but drink your water!! Staying hydrated on the inside definitely shows on the outside, and being hydrated is an essential component to health overall!!

Wear your sunscreen!! Apply it in multiple layers to both your face AND NECK, as both are exposed to the sun for long periods of time and can suffer from prolonged exposure without proper sunscreen application. Along that line, don't be afraid to apply skincare to your neck!! I've seen photos of older individuals who took care of their face and not their neck and the difference between face and neck skin was astounding, so I personally like to rub excess hydrating serums and moisturizers into my neck as well.

Don't pop your acne! If you do get pimples, which I used to get all the time tho it's slowed down a lot, use a warm/hot washcloth or something similar to apply heat to the pimple. This will help it pop naturally, although popping your pimples may allow for the oil, dirt, and sebum to spread to other areas which may cause more acne. Popping acne with your hands may also cause scarring.

Love your skin!!! Skincare results take time, and there's going to be ups and downs while trying to find what products work for you, so try to love your skin throughout the process. Acne and other skin issues are caused by things sometimes out of our control, such as genetics, hormones, climate and weather, etc, so try not to be too hard on yourself!! Things will improve, and if they don't, after some time, seek out a reputable and trustworthy professional for an opinion and better direction on how to care for your skin!!

Wishing you all the best!! Does anyone have any experience with ice rolling or Gua sha being extremely effective? I haven't tried either, but I am looking into it as I feel like ice rolling, especially, might be beneficial, but I'm unsure. And can anyone recommend any Asian beauty water-based foam cleanser that I can use after an oil cleanse? I fear that my cerave isn't enough to fully remove all the cleansing balm residue from my face, which might end up being detrimental to my skin health.

Also, let me know your skin type and products or tools you recommend, as I am always open to including new things into my routine!! I love doing things for myself so expanding my skincare routine is definitely an interest of mine!

Til next time, lovelies 🩷

[lesuccube]

➚ 𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐃𝐄𝐑 : ꜱᴛᴇᴠᴇɴ ɢʀᴀɴᴛ — ꜱᴇʟꜰ-ʟᴏᴠᴇ

𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒 — we love a king who knows how to pamper himself .

𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 — fluff infection

𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 — not beta'd , constructive criticism is welcomed . reblogs and comments are appreciated .

𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓 — 1.2k

steven grant has been your best friend ever since you wandered into the gift shop section of the museum, wanting to buy a taweret plushie that you've been eyeing since seeing them when you passed by the area during a tour.

he was just a gift shop-ist at that time, nothing really special but when you had asked for a recommendation of what knick knack was the most historically accurate you could buy, he went on a tangent about egyptian mythology. it landed him a scolding from his boss but a laugh from you. maybe it was because he was just so pretty or that he fascinated you with his knowledge that you gave him your number.

ever since that day, you two hit it off really well. one text led to two and then a call, one too many which turned into you visiting him more at the museum whenever you're not too busy to go out on weekends. not too long after that, you invited him to your place and the rest have been history. it all happened in the span of four months.

you and steven made it a ritual to have a regular sleepover at yours on the last friday of the month (even if steven was working overtime doing inventory and the commute to your place added 30 more minutes before he reached you). but why would he go through all that trouble?

well, it's simple. the first time steven slept over, he became witness to your entire nighttime skincare routine. he was fascinated by all the products you used from face masks to serums to creams, anything you applied to your face he was paying absolute attention to the process of it all.

he loved how every single one of your products would have a benefit to your skin's health so much that he asked if you could do it to him too. now steven's actually very meticulous with his looks, all the boys are really, but steven liked to nitpick at his reflection (marc grumbles incessantly about it though neither of you knew that).

he wears chapstick because his lips get dry easily and since he does have that 5 o'clock shadow, he has a well thought out aftershave products. but skincare all in all? he thinks soap and water is enough.

every product you'd lather on his face, he'd ask what it does and you'd ramble about how retinol serums do help with wrinkles but it shouldn't be applied daily if he doesn't want to burn his face. he thought chapsticks were enough to keep his lips moisturized but when you pulled out a lip mask and a scrub, boy he was a goner.

the next time you guys hung out outside, steven dragged you to the mall and had you help him buy his own set of skincare products.

it made you giggle before directing him to a pretty popular clinic in the mall first so you two know what products to use with professional help rather than guessing what to buy and end up ruining his pretty sun-kissed skin.

[the following information is not accurate, i'm only saying what i remembered from when i was a heavy skincare girlie, i've turned to a much simpler routine now]

okay so, according to (me) the doctor, he's got a little bit of dryness on his cheeks and some oiliness on his t-zone, poor baby's got wrinkles from the stress he gets from donna and the heavy purpling bags under his eyes.

she recommended him quite a lot of products which included 2 cleansers, 2 moisturizers, 3 serums, a cream and an spf all with a variation of AHA, AAA, BHA, retinol, niacinamide and more. he bought them all.

steven absolutely splurged that day, not only did he buy everything the dermatologist recommended, he also went and bought stuff he saw you use from memory, the face masks, lip masks and scrubs, everything. hell he even had you buy your own recommendation of good shower products because "you always smell so nice and i know you're not really a perfume person".

that night, steven had you demonstrate each process step by step or can also be read as steven asking you to apply them on him like at a spa or clinic. he fell asleep with a sheet mask on.

when he woke up the next morning, you told him that you actually completed his routine while he was sleeping, much to his embarrassment, to which you replied with, "it's no problem at all, i got to take care of your pretty face and you were sound asleep, couldn't bear the thought of waking you up when you clearly needed that."

now every time he comes over every last friday of the month, you two would have your me-days. you two don't hold back on any of your products even if it rips a new hole in your wallets every time you two shop to restock.

lounging on your couch in a comfy pair of steven's shirt he forgot at yours some time ago and some sleep shorts, hair held back by a fluffy headband with a face mask on you, you surf through channels to find some trashy movie to watch with steven.

said man was in his own pj's, lip mask over his lips with the front of his curls tied up as he lay his head on your lap. he was reading his egyptian mythology book, reading glasses perched on his nose as he highlights bits of information he considers important.

your hand unconsciously runs through the curls that aren't tied up as you find a channel that's showing a rerun episode from the office and you settle for that. steven would occasionally hum and turn his head to watch, laughing at the jokes they'd make before returning his focus to his book. it's all so comfortable and perfect and somehow really late in the night.

steven notices your hand stopped combing through his hair and was about to ask why but only to see you sound asleep, mid-face mask. kind of like he was when you gave him his first spa treatment.

so he tucks his book away and takes off his lip mask. then continues to take off yours. he brings over your items carefully and starts to finish off your routine for you, making sure his hands don't rub too hard to wake you up. in an odd sense, it's like steven was trying to say thank you.

for the first time you showed him the way to care for himself more than just food and shower, for letting him learn alongside you how to feel better about himself as he applies skincare products on his face and so many more reasons pertaining to your friendship.

he finally finishes yours with great care and he makes quick work of his own, throwing away the masks before shutting the tv off, carrying you with surprising ease back to your bed and tucking you in.

he sneaks in beside you afterwards, holding you close to his body as he mumbles his goodnight. steven never had to worry about his sleeping disorder when with you, never needing an ankle restraint when you were always there to keep him grounded.

[row-of-ribbons]

Dream Girl Diary intro 4/5: skincare + my skin care secrets

Hey there, lovely ladies! Welcome back to my Dream Girl Guide intro. Today, let's chat about skincare. I know it can be overwhelming with everyone talking about which products to use, but don't worry - you don't have to buy everything that's trending. Just remember to enjoy every moment and embrace your womanhood with grace and elegance.

I'll definitely break it down in a simple way and share some of my favorite skincare tips with you!

1# Overuse of products

One of the primary reasons for your breakouts could be the result of using an excessive number of skincare products. Overloading your skin with various products can suffocate it and hinder the effectiveness of the treatment. It's important to allow your skin time to benefit from the skincare routine by not overwhelming it with too many products. sometimes simple is best

2#Expansivee does not always mean better

I'm certain you've heard about dupes—I personally like them. But were you aware that sometimes the dupe is produced by the same company under a generic name, or that sometimes the dupe outperforms the original? (Not to say you should only opt for dupes if you don't want to.) Occasionally, it's worth investing in the original, like The Ordinary AHA BHA serum. I have complete faith in their brand, and it's perfectly formulated.

3# Use what you actually need for your skin

stop following trends and pause, think about what your skin needs there is no point of buying a cleanser that's abrasive with harsh ingredients (acids and exfoliators) if you have sensitive skin. what works for others might not work for you. take some time out of your day and research your skin. look in the mirror and identify your skin problems.

4#Your diet plays a part

Maybe you are doing everything right; perhaps Remember that improving your skin health is not just about the products you use. It's also about what you consume. you understand the deep depths of skincare and know what to do. But, honey, your diet sucks. You're eating fried food, soda, and sweets, and that throws off your pH, and hormones, thus affecting your skin. I know that clean eating is hard to do, given that everyone's finances are different. If there is a change you can make, like drinking more water or not eating as many sweets, then you could try that. Stress can also affect your hormones and make you crave other things that are not good for you. Learning stress management is also important.

now my skincare tips

Make your own toner by steeping rose petals in green tea. Store for a week in a cool place or 3 days at room temperature.

In the morning, I always use a silicone mold facial icer filled with water and lemon juice instead of a regular ice cube. This way, I get an extra dose of vitamin C to start my day right.

I strive to derma-plane my face once a week, then use a mud mask with Aztec clay and apple cider vinegar to cleanse my skin. Remember to wash your face with a gentle cleanser before applying the mud mask and use 2-4 teaspoons of vinegar to avoid irritation after exfoliation.

=XOXOXO

[csuitebitches]

How I’m Looking After Myself (simple self care and beauty)

Hair

- High frequency on my roots on wash days (2x week), followed by onion serum meant for hair

- Homemade hair mask of egg + mayo for 15 mins before shampooing (dry hair) and applying Shikakai powder + water mixture to my roots

- Apparently air drying is bad for your hair, so I’m trying to use very little heat from the blow dryer instead

Face

- 1 clay mask/ the ordinary’s red serum mask (AHA+BHA) a week

- Morning routine: face wash, toner, vitamin C, eye cream, sunscreen and moisturiser

- Night routine: face wash, toner, hylaronic acid, eye cream, moisturiser

- Lymphatic drainage massage on mask days

- Occasionally using high frequency

- Waxing upper lip/ chin/ eyebrows myself once a week/ 15 days

- Black head removal twice a month (i steam my face while doing this)

- Minimal make up, even on work days to prevent clogged pores

Body

- a gentle body wash of mint and some other herbs

- A combo of body oil and moisturiser after shower

- Red nails and toes, always

- Waxing instead of shaving - especially down there to reduce growth, waxing lasts so much longer than shaving; I wax once in like 1.5 months

- Oil massages at my local masseuse once a month

[darklovecat]

summer essentials?

AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution!

This product is versatile and can be used for a variety of skin-related issues, like hyperpigmentation, acne, scars, and uneven skin tone. However, in the summers I personally use it for my daily underarm botox fix. By applying the serum on my underarms and leaving it there for around 15 minutes before washing it off, I'm able to eliminate unpleasant smells and excessive sweating for the rest of the day. I live in an area with high temperatures during the summer, and white clothes is a common choice for me and I want to avoid any unpleasantness, that's why this product is a must-have for me.

A summer workout routine!

Exercising and working out is one of my favorite things to do, as it energizes me and gives me the results that I want. The first thing I do in the morning is get moving, and there's nothing quite like a good workout to start my day off right. During the summer months, I prefer focusing on building my glutes, toning my abs, and working on my overall physique, and I love some of Pamela Reif's videos. To achieve my fitness goals, I have curated a list of my favorite exercises and enjoy following videos along with my gym routine. Maintaining consistency in my workout routine is something I prioritize, I always focus on consistency and not results, which has helped me achieve all of my fitness goals.

A pair of hot girl sunglasses!

I recently purchased a handmade pair of sunglasses from Karl Wagner, and they are oval acetate and smaller than what I usually go for but quite nice. As someone who has had laser eye surgery and hates making eye contact with strangers, eye protection is especially important to me year-round, but particularly during the summer when the sun's harmful UV rays are stronger. And because the skin around my eyes is very thin, excessive squinting can lead to wrinkles, so I take extra care to shield my eyes from the sun's rays by applying a generous amount of sunscreen and sunglasses.

White tennis skirts!

Summertime calls for a wardrobe shift for me and I make it a point to switch out my darker skirts for lighter options in shades like baby pink and white. I find that these colors perfectly capture the essence of summertime and make me feel light and breezy. One of my favorite things about wearing white tennis skirts is that they go with just about any top, so I have endless outfit options to mix and match. To complete the look, I typically opt for white sneakers or sandals, both of which add a touch of freshness to the overall aesthetic. Whether I'm running errands, meeting up with friends, or simply lounging in the sun, these skirts provide the perfect blend of comfort, style, and versatility.

A deeper shade of foundation!

Nowadays, whenever I desire a sun-kissed complexion, I prefer making slight makeup modifications, I adjust my foundations between seasons instead of exposing myself to the sun's harmful UV rays. I have very light olive skin so a slightly darker foundation makes me look a lot healthier and gives me the look I love, I draw on faux freckles with a light brow eyebrow pencil and I'm generous with my blush. I recall the one instance in my life when I tried to get a tan on a deck in the height of summer. I ended up getting burned and turned into a ghastly tomato-red shade. The sight of my terrified me, and I applied ice packs and slathered aloe vera gel on my face every hour. That experience made me promise myself to never repeat that mistake again.

White dresses!

I have a serious addiction to white dresses, they're an essential part of my summer wardrobe. Every piece of item in my wardrobe tends to get boring after a while but not with my white dresses. They come in all sorts of styles, but nothing makes me feel more beautiful than a flowy white dress during the summer months. I love pairing it with a flowy chiffon hijab, cute earrings, and an ethereal makeup look. My absolute fave are empire waist dresses- they work wonders in emphasizing my waistline and elongating my legs. Plus, they give off a super chic and elegant vibe. The only downside is that these dresses are usually made of natural materials, so they tend to wrinkle easily throughout the day which drives me crazy but I'm trying my best to make peace with that.

Cat.

[hyaffiliate]

Achieving a Radiant Complexion: A Simple Nighttime Skincare Regimen

In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to overlook the significance of a proper nighttime skincare routine. However, dedicating a few minutes before bedtime can make a world of difference in achieving healthy, glowing skin. Let's delve into a straightforward nighttime skincare routine that will leave you feeling pampered and your skin revitalized!

Cleanse: The First Step to Radiance

The foundation of any effective skincare routine is cleansing. Before heading to bed, ensure your face is free from makeup, dirt, and pollutants that have accumulated throughout the day. Opt for a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. Gently massage it onto your face using circular motions, focusing on areas prone to oiliness or dryness. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to preserve essential oils.

Recommendations:

Aprilskin Carrotene IPMP™ Hydromelt Cleansing Balm

JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm 10 Ingredients Makeup Remover 

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser

Exfoliate: Unveiling a Fresh Canvas

Exfoliation is essential but limit it to 2-3 times a week to avoid overdoing it. A gentle exfoliant will remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and enhance the absorption of your skincare products. Look for products with natural exfoliants like jojoba beads or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs).

Recommendations:

SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser 

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant - Exfoliator

Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant

Tone: Balancing the pH

After cleansing and exfoliating, toning comes into play. A toner helps balance the skin's pH levels and prepares it for better absorption of serums and moisturizers. Choose alcohol-free toners with soothing ingredients like rose water, chamomile, or witch hazel.

Recommendations:

PCA SKIN Nutrient Face Toner

THAYERS Alcohol-Free, Hydrating Lavender Witch Hazel Facial Toner

SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

Serum: Targeted Treatments

Serums are packed with potent ingredients that target specific skin concerns. Whether it's fine lines, hyperpigmentation, or dehydration, serums offer a concentrated boost of active ingredients. Gently apply a small amount to your face and neck, letting the serum work its magic overnight.

Recommendations:

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence

Paula's Choice CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment

Derma ProGenix Advanced Anti-Aging Skin Care Serum

Eye Cream: Soothing and Refreshing

The delicate skin around the eyes requires special attention. Apply a nourishing eye cream to help reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Use your ring finger to dab a pea-sized amount around the orbital bone gently.

Recommendations:

IMAGE Skincare, VITAL C Hydrating Eye Recovery Gel

Dongyu 5% Caffeine Eye Serum and Under Eye Roller Cream

QOI Dark Circle Eliminator

Hydrate: Locking in Moisture

Moisturizing is crucial to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Select a night cream or moisturizer that suits your skin type, whether it's gel-based for oily skin or thicker for dry skin. Massage it into your skin using upward strokes to promote better circulation.

Recommendations:

COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer

Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance

PCA SKIN Collagen Hydrator Night Cream

Lip Care: Soft and Supple Lips

Don't forget to show your lips some love! Apply a nourishing lip balm or treatment to keep your lips soft and supple throughout the night.

Recommendation:

LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask

Overnight Mask or Face Oil: Nourishing and Repairing

For an extra boost of nourishment, consider using an overnight mask or face oil. These products provide intense hydration and repair your skin as you sleep, waking up to a fresh and revitalized complexion.

Hands and Feet: Extending Skincare Love

If you have a few extra minutes, pamper your hands and feet as well. Moisturize them with a rich cream and put on cotton gloves and socks before sleep, allowing the products to deeply penetrate and hydrate the skin.

Recommendations:

Paula's Choice Radiance Renewal Night Mask

LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask

Beauty Sleep: The Ultimate Secret

Finally, the most essential part of any nighttime skincare routine is a good night's sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted rest to give your skin and body the time they need to repair and rejuvenate.

Remember, Consistency is Key!

The true magic of any skincare routine lies in consistency. Don't expect overnight miracles; instead, practice this easy nighttime skincare routine regularly and patiently, and you'll soon notice a radiant and healthy complexion that makes the effort entirely worthwhile.

So, go ahead and treat yourself to a little nightly skincare ritual – your skin will thank you for it!

P.S Highlighted are my personal favs

[nyiibat]

If I was going to recommend a skin care routine for dry/combo sensitive acne prone skin this is what I would recommend. Not sponsored I just think these products do good things, they’re all recommended to me from a licensed dermatologist. As always do your own research and experimentation;

MORNING AND NIGHT CLEANSER : Naturium Niacinamide cleansing gelee 3%. It has Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C , it’s formulated as a gentle cleanser for sensitive skin. It’s 5$ for the mini and 18$ for the large it’s available at Target in the US. It’s cruelty and fragrance free, dermatologist tested.

It claims Naturium's Niacinamide Cleansing Gelee 3% gently dissolves impurities. Leaves skin feeling soft & smooth . Helps balance skin, leaving it feeling comfortable, not dry or stripped. Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Dermatologist Tested . Paraben Free, Vegan, Gluten Free

TONER/EXFOLIANTE: I would recommend the pixie by Petra glow tonic to go exfoliating pads with 5% glycolic acid, aloe Vera and ginseng.

Glycolic acid is a gentle chemical exfoliant that doesn’t irritate the skin in the same ways BHA/AHAs can, Glycolic acid tones and exfoliates the skin for brighter more even skin tone, clearer pores and less acne. Aloe and ginseng help to calm irritated skin.

Packaging claims: These pre-soaked pads tone, brighten, hydrate, and gently exfoliate. Skin looks clearer & feels smoother. The ultimate travel-friendly, gentle skin renewal. Formulated with 5% Glycolic Acid. Suited for all skin types . Alcohol-free and Hypoallergenic, Not tested on animals. Paraben-free

They are 18$ at target

MORNING SERUM: the Naturium Vitamin C super plus serum. It’s formulated with Vitamin C, Retinol, Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide, and Salicylic acid. Making this a super serum for acne, brightening, acne scars, discoloration, fine lines, hyper pigmentation fine lines and wrinkles.

It’s 26$ at target

NIGHTTIME SERUM: Any Niacinamide serum I personally recommend the Good molecules Niacinamide serum. You can get it at Ulta for 12$

AT NIGHT ONLY: Retinol, retinol has many benefits including anti aging and anti acne, post scar treatment, hyper pigmentation, and brightening. It promotes healthy skin turn over to clear up troubled skin.

The best beginner retinol is CeraVe Resurfacing retinol serum. It’s 19$ at target

You use a pea sized amount on your face and neck after your face has absorbed the serum. Wait until the retinol has absorbed before moving on to your moisturizer.

Only use retinol at night because it’s very reactive to sunlight and can cause irritation.

MOISTURIZER: I recommend the cetaphil redness relieving night time moisturizer for day and night. This is good for redness and dryness even if you have oily skin.

CETAPHIL REDNESS RELIEVING NIGHT MOISTURIZER: Specially formulated for redness-prone skin to provide continuous hydration that helps reduce the appearance of redness due to dryness overnight . VISIBLY IMPROVES SKIN TEXTURE: Rehydrates dry skin, leaving it feeling soothed and balanced. SKIN SOOTHING: Formulated with licorice extract, allantoin and caffeine, and is designed to soothe redness-prone skin. HYPOALLERGENIC, FRAGRANCE FREE AND NONCOMEDOGENIC: Nourishes skin without irritating skin or clogging pores. DESIGNED FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: All CETAPHIL products are effective yet non-irritating.

Its 12$ at target

EYE CREAMS: depending on what you want or your concerns are this is skippable till your 18-20 then you should definitely start using an eye cream. You use them day and night.

Dark circles - CeraVe under eye cream repair for dark circles and puffiness. Eye cream for dark circles and puffiness. Suitable for all skin types. Hyaluronic acid to hydrate and retain the skin's moisture. Fragrance-free & hypoallergenic. Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores). Ophthalmologist tested. 3 essential ceramides help restore the skin barrier . Developed with dermatologists

It is 15$ at target

Moisture eye cream - Naturium Multi-peptide eye cream. Naturium's Multi-Peptide Eye Cream helps smooth the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles. Moisturizes & hydrates. Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Dermatologist Tested. Paraben Free, Vegan, Gluten Free.

It’s 16$ at target

SUNSCREEN: non negotiable you need to be wearing sunscreen! No one is immune to the sun’s harmful rays no matter what your skin tone is! Not to mention you do all this skin care work for it to go to waste by not protecting your skin. Especially when using actives like vitamin C and retinol!

Use sunscreen in the morning, nothing lower than 30spf , spf can only go to 50 no matter what packaging claims and no, the spf in your moisturizer or foundation is NOT enough.

Use three fingers worth of sunscreen!

My favorite is the Hawaiian tropic silk hydration weightless face sunscreen spf 30. The fragrance is non irritating to sensitive skin and doesn’t leave a white cast. It leaves a nice natural silky Demi matte look to the skin.

WEIGHTLESS FACE SUNSCREEN FORMULA feels as if it's barely on. SPF 30 FACE SUNSCREEN gives you 12-hour moisturization. WON'T CLOG PORES — Hawaiian Tropic face sunscreen is hypoallergenic and oil free. DERMATOLOGIST TESTED sunscreen SPF 30. WATER RESISTANT up to 80 minutes. ICONIC HAWAIIAN TROPIC SCENT — this tropical-scented sunscreen celebrates the island botanicals of Hawaii. THOUGHTFULLY FORMULATED — does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate. PETA-CERTIFIED CRUELTY-FREE — We never test on animals. BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN PROTECTION from UVA and UVB rays

It’s 11$ at target

[jonitasharma]

Refresh Skin Science's aha bha peeling solution for acne and exfoliating facial with added PHA making it the best for your skin. Boost Collagen & Unclog Pores.

[facecareroutine]

Unlocking Radiant Skin: The Essential Skincare Routine

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, amidst deadlines and responsibilities, it's easy to overlook the importance of skincare. However, nurturing your skin with a consistent and effective skincare routine is not only a form of self-care but also an investment in your long-term health and confidence.

A skincare routine isn't just about vanity; it's about maintaining the health and vitality of your skin, the body's largest organ, which acts as a protective barrier against environmental aggressors. Whether you're a skincare novice or a seasoned enthusiast, crafting the perfect skincare routine tailored to your skin type and concerns is paramount. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you unlock radiant skin:

Know Your Skin Type:

Understanding your skin type is the cornerstone of any effective skincare routine. Skin can be broadly categorized into four types: normal, dry, oily, and combination. Normal skin is well-balanced, neither too oily nor too dry, while dry skin often feels tight and may appear flaky. Oily skin tends to produce excess sebum, leading to a shiny complexion and potential breakouts. Combination skin exhibits characteristics of both oily and dry skin, with oiliness typically concentrated in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

The Basic Steps:

Cleansing: Cleanse your face twice daily, in the morning and evening, to remove dirt, oil, and impurities that accumulate throughout the day and overnight. Choose a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type to avoid stripping away natural oils.

Toning: After cleansing, use a toner to rebalance the skin's pH levels, tighten pores, and prepare the skin for subsequent products. Opt for alcohol-free toners to avoid drying out the skin.

Moisturizing: Hydration is key to maintaining healthy skin. Apply a moisturizer suited to your skin type to lock in moisture and keep your skin soft and supple. Don't forget to moisturize both morning and night.

Sun Protection: Shield your skin from harmful UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Sunscreen not only prevents sunburn but also protects against premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer.

Targeted Treatments:

In addition to the basic steps, incorporate targeted treatments into your skincare routine to address specific concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or aging.

Serums: Serums are concentrated formulations packed with active ingredients designed to target particular skin issues, whether it's brightening, firming, or hydrating. Choose serums based on your skin's needs and layer them before moisturizer for optimal absorption.

Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells, promotes cell turnover, and reveals smoother, brighter skin underneath. Incorporate a chemical exfoliant (such as AHAs or BHAs) or a gentle physical exfoliant into your routine 1-3 times per week, depending on your skin's sensitivity.

Masks: Treat your skin to a weekly mask to address specific concerns or indulge in some pampering self-care. Whether it's a clay mask to purify pores, a hydrating mask to replenish moisture, or a sheet mask for an instant boost, masking can enhance the effectiveness of your skincare routine.

Consistency is Key:

Consistency is the secret ingredient to achieving and maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Stick to your skincare routine diligently, and be patient – visible results often take time. Remember to listen to your skin and adjust your routine as needed, especially with changes in seasons or lifestyle factors.

Conclusion:

A well-crafted skincare routine tailored to your skin's unique needs is the foundation of healthy, radiant skin. By prioritizing regular cleansing, hydration, sun protection, and targeted treatments, you can unlock your skin's full potential and cultivate a complexion that radiates confidence and vitality. So, invest in yourself, and let your skincare routine be a daily ritual of self-love and care. Your skin will thank you for it.

[heich0e]

Heyyyyy, do you have a skin care routine for your body? Like body oil or certain type of lotion or soap? I’ve been trying to be better about that and take care of my skin and tattoos but I get a lot of ingrown hairs on my legs and the back of my arms and I just feel like my skin is so blah. Do you have any product recs or advice? 👍

hello!! first and foremost: i am not a dermatologist!! just some guy!!

i do have a bodycare routine (although for full disclosure i don't think we have the exact same skin type!!) but rather than bog u down w specific products, i think there's rly just a good couple of rules to go by—my dermatologist told me all of these and i let that info guide my skincare purchasing decisions!

most oils are comedogenic, meaning they clog your pores. there are a few that are non-comedogenic, or rank low on their comedogenic scale, but many (like coconut oil for example) rank high and are very likely to clog your pores and cause irritation. i personally don't use body oils for this reason (and also because they tend to be heavily fragranced which can irritate your skin.) there are much better, more hydrating alternatives if you're suffering from dry skin.

i GENERALLY go for skincare products that are unscented and don't have sensitizing ingredients. i got a list from my dermatologist and shopped from it for a long time, but as the years have gone by I just use that criteria to guide me and it hasn't failed me yet. i don't care about products being "clean" or "natural" (bc i think that's largely a made up marketing scheme) but shorter ingredient lists are generally better.

your body skin (most of it anyway) is more resilient than your face skin, so something like manual exfoliation is less damaging to it. chemical exfoliation is still preferable a lot of the time, but something like a gritty scrub or a scrubbing mitt works too to slough off dead skin every once in a while. be careful w things like loofas/mitts etc because they can very easily collect bacteria. launder them regularly or replace them after a few uses.

if you DID want to chemically exfoliate your body skin, you could try something like an AHA or BHA toner (glycolic acid or salicylic acid.) that will help w things like ingrown hairs, but also things like texture and dullness. apply it to your skin before moisturizer, and always wear sunscreen because they make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

moisturizer is important! but everyone's skin is different when it comes to what degree of moisture you need. you might need to try out a couple before u find one that works best for you!! keep in mind that most moisturizer doesn't rly ADD hydration to your skin, it's just occlusive which means it seals existing moisture in. if you're suffering from rly dry skin you might need a HYDRATOR first (look for ingredients like honey, glycerine, hyaluronic acid, etc—which are humectants.)

ok that's all good luck i love u!!

[sidobelei]

Steps in a skincare routine (+ tips)

Here are the usual steps (more details below):

Cleansing (essential)

Toner

Exfoliant/Exfoliator

Essence and Serum

Moisturizer (essential)

Sunscreen (essential)

Important tips are at the bottom of the post. (This is an extremely lengthy post with more to come.)

There are no product recommendations in this post.

Def. Cleansing/Cleanser:

Cleansing is washing your face with face soap. There's a different type of soap for your face probably because the skin on your face is more sensitive to things. Some cleansers also have ingredients to help you combat your skin concerns.

There are two types of cleansers: oil cleansers and water-based cleansers. If you use an oil cleanser, make sure to use a water-based cleanser afterward to wash off any remaining dirt/oil on your face (also because after an oil cleanser, your face might still feel oily). If you aren't using an oil cleanser, you can just use the water-based cleanser by itself. People usually use oil cleansers and double cleanse to remove makeup properly or to remove excess oil if you're skin is more on the oily side.

[Def. Double cleansing is using an oil cleanser and a water-based and a water-based cleanser as explained above.]

+ Gently rub in the cleanser for ~1 minute before rinsing it off so it can have its full effect. (1 minute for each cleanser.)

Def. Toner:

Toners are used as the final cleansing step (is what the internet says). They hydrate your face too. To be honest, i would just use a toner as an essence (step 4). Toners are optional and I do not do this step myself (if you want to use a toner just to cleanse your face, i honestly find it unnecessary).

Most people use it by pouring some of the product onto a cotton pad and swiping all over the face with it. Personally, i find it wasteful so i would recommend this instead:

+ Pour a bit of the toner into the palm of your hand and gently rub your two hands together to spread the product all over your hands and then tap the product onto your face.

The above tip applies to more watery toners. The application depends on the viscosity of the toner and the way it comes out of its container.

+ If it's in a spray bottle, just spray it onto your face and tap it in with your hands to make sure the product is spread all over your face.

+ If the toner is thicker and won't drip everywhere like water, just apply a few drops on your face and spread it with your hands. This could also work if the toner is in a bottle with an eyedropper. (For example, the bottles used for many of The Ordinary's products - not for their toner though.)

Def. Exfoliant/Exfoliator/Exfoliating/AHA/BHA:

Exfoliant or exfoliator - it's the same thing, they are synonyms.

Exfoliators help remove dead skin and dirt. The main reasons why you might want to use exfoliator: acne, changes in the color of your skin (like hyperpigmentation).

There are two categories: AHA (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHA (beta hydroxy acids). AHA seems to be better for skin color changes (hyperpigmentation) and BHA seems to be better for acne because of its antibacterial properties. (As a rule of thumb,)DO NOT USE BHA/AHA AND BHA/AHA AT THE SAME TIME. (You can use some at the same time depending on the situation. Look up what ingredients can't be mixed with the one you're inquiring about.) Here's an excerpt from my salicylic acid post about it:

"It should be fine if you use salicylic acid (BHA) for example in the morning and then use other BHAs or AHAs products at night because you washed your face before using the products, but i personally wouldn’t take the risk."

Some examples of AHAs:

Glycolic acid

Lactic acid

Mandelic acid

Some examples of BHAs:

Salicylic acid

Benzoyl peroxide

If you are unsure if your ingredient is a BHA or an AHA, just look it up. (Like "Is x BHA or AHA".) If an ingredient has "acid" in its name, it does not automatically mean it is a BHA or an AHA (as you'll see in the next step). Ingredients that have similar effects as BHAs or AHAs aren't all necessarily BHAs or AHAs, so you can use them together with BHAs or AHAs (ex. niacinamide, alpha arbutin, vitamin C).

+ The way you apply exfoliators may vary depending on the type. Look at the instructions on your bottle to proceed accordingly or you could end up overusing the product and damaging your skin.

+ For harsher exfoliants like salicylic acid (BHA), i prefer to do spot treatment. I would put a drop or a small amount of the product and apply it to the concerned areas. As a general rule of thumb, i would suggest doing spot treatment for exfoliants (especially BHAs).

+ Some exfoliants make your skin more sensitive to UV rays from the sun so make sure to apply sunscreen during the day (it also helps with the effectiveness of the exfoliant).

Scrubs are also a type of exfoliant, but i will not be talking about them since i have never used them on my face. Maybe i'll research it another time.

[Def. Scrubs (for your skin, not what health workers wear) are exfoliators with granules that you wash off like cleansers.]

Def. Essence and Serum

Essences and serums have the same effect: hydration and/or moisturization.

[Def. Hydration: Hydrating ingredients attracts water to the outermost layer of the skin. (Even if you use a bunch of hydrating serums and essences, drinking lots of water every day will help a lot with skin hydration (go drink water right now). You should be drinking 2L of water every day (i don't but do as i say, not as i do).)]

[Def. Moisturization: Moisturizing ingredients act as lubricants and lock in moisture and hydration. This is why we call cream/lotion* 'moisturizer'. Products advertised as 'moisturizing' often have moisturizing and hydrating properties.]

*The term 'lotion' on Japanese products refers to serums or essences, not moisturizers. It could also refer to lube but we're talking about skincare here.

To my understanding, the difference between serums and essences is their viscosity/thickness. Essences are less viscous/thinner and serums are more viscous/thicker. More on the order of application at the bottom in the tips.

+ If the product is watery, you can rub it in your hands before tapping it into your face.

+ If it is thicker, you can just put a few drops on your face directly and spread it.

Honestly, you can also put it in your hand first if you prefer doing it that way. I just prefer putting it on my face directly if the packaging allows me to do so because i want to use the least amount of product possible with it still being able to cover my whole face. (I usually use two drops. Tips about this are at the bottom.)

Def. Moisturizer:

Moisturizers are creams or lotions. As mentioned above, moisturizers are used to lock in hydration and moisture. Some moisturizers are thicker/heavier and some are lighter/thinner. It depends on your skin type and your preference.

If you have dryer skin, i would suggest thicker moisturizers because they feel more moisturizing and like they keep the moisture in better. If you have oilier skin (oiI), i would suggest lighter moisturizers so they feel less heavy because if it's thicker, it might feel like another uncomfortable layer of oil on your face. If you have combination skin, it is better to use a lighter moisturizer on oilier areas and a thicker moisturizer on dryer/not oily areas. This is just my opinion on the texture of moisturizers.

Def. Sunscreen

Sunscreens are also a crucial step in your routine. It protects your skin from sun damage - preventing sun spots and slowing down skin aging. UV rays can also worsen your hyperpigmentation - sunscreen can prevent that. Some products also work better with sun protection as mentioned in the exfoliant step.

Higher SPF levels mean that the sun protection lasts longer.

[Def. SPF is Sun Protection Factor.]

The highest is SPF 100, but you can just use SPF 50 (sometimes there are +++ besides the 50, meaning it is more than SPF 50 duh). SPF 100 sunscreens aren't easily accessible because the FDA (Food & Drug Administration of the US) deems some of the UVB filters (ingredients) generally not regarded as safe or effective. There isn't much difference between the two anyways;

SPF 100 blocks 99% of UVB rays

SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays

SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays

SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays

Most Asian sunscreens have SPF 50+, so i recommend looking at stores or websites that carry Asian beauty products for them. I also prefer using them because they are way less expensive than ones from Western brands and have a better texture than the Western drugstore sunscreens for a similar price. You also have more choices to fit your skin type better.

[Def. UV stands for ultraviolet (rays). They come from the sun.]

[Def. UVA stands for Ultraviolet A. It's a type of UV ray that has a longer wavelength and is associated with skin aging. UVA rays make up 95% of the UV rays that reach the ground - that reach your exposed skin.]

[Def. UVB stands for Ultraviolet B. It's a type of UV ray that has a shorter wavelength and is associated with skin burning. UVB rays make up 5% of the UV rays that reach the ground - that reach your exposed skin.]

The SPF number also tells you the amount the time it protects you before you need to reapply. For example, if your skin burns in 1 minute, SPF 50 can protect you for 50 minutes (this is just an example, i don't think most of us get sunburned in one minute).

The more melanin you have (what provides pigmentation to your hair, eyes, and skin), the more ultraviolet protection you have - the longer your skin doesn't burn without sunscreen. That is why people with light eyes, hair, and skin get sunburnt more easily and people with darker hair, eyes, and skin get sunburnt less easily.

Reapplication time: every 2 hours (every time you get out of the water if you're swimming outdoors).

Sunscreens can come in cream, stick, and powder form. The latter two are better used as reapplication though. Even with the label indicating SPF 50, sun sticks and powder don't have the full SPF 50 protection in one layer. You need to apply an uncomfortable amount of layers of the product to get to SPF 50. At that point, i would just wash my hands and apply the regular sunscreen.

[Def. PA stands for Protection Grade of UVA. These ratings measure a product's ability to block UVA rays. You can find PA ratings on sunscreens, makeup, and skincare products. The number of '+' beside 'PA' indicates the amount of UVA protection;

PA+ | Some UVA protection

PA++ | Moderate UVA protection

PA+++ | High UVA protection

PA++++ | Extremely high UVA protection.]

Basically, if you're looking to prevent sunburns, look for a high SPF (50). If you're looking to slow down skin aging, look for a high PA (++++). You can easily find these ratings on Asian sunscreens.

Important tips (these aren't suggestions unless i say so):

Make sure to wash your hands properly with soap for 20 seconds, making sure to clean your nails and your finger slits before applying anything to your face. Even before cleansing. Maybe you're breaking out because you're touching your hands with filthy musty hands.

[Def. Breaking out in pimples] Am i overdoing the definitions...?

Do patch tests. You never know if your skin would react badly to a certain ingredient. For a more accurate result, you should do the patch test on your face. Patch testing is crucial for people with sensitive skin.

[Def. A patch test is pretty self-explanatory; testing on a patch of skin (not your whole face).]

Order of application of your products: the essential steps are in the order i wrote at the beginning of this post (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen). All the other steps are sandwiched between the cleanser and the moisturizer. If you aren't sure of the order of your exfoliators and/or of your serums and essence, just go from thin to thick - lower viscosity to higher viscosity. This is the reason why the steps in a skincare routine are as they are. Toners are generally thinner than exfoliators, exfoliators are generally thinner than serums, and essences are generally thinner than serums. If you noticed, this means you can use essences before exfoliators. That is why i said i would use toners as essences since they are essentially the same in texture and use (in my opinion). Regarding these middle steps, i do not think it is necessary to follow the toner, exfoliator, essence, serum order.

Using a little product for a big surface: the trick is to dot your product in every area of your face before spreading it. If you just put your product in one area of your face and spread it from there, the first areas will already absorb most of the product before it reaches the rest of your face.

I first put 2 drops of the serum/essence on my finger or my face (it depends on the packaging - whatever's easier) and then tap it around my face with one finger: two dots of product (still from the same 2 drops) on each of my cheeks, one or two on my forehead, and one on my chin. Then i spread it and tap the product in, making sure my whole face is covered. (This can go for any other product that you use all over your face.) Obviously you can need more or less to cover your face because we don't all have the same face size, so adjust as needed.

Rubbing or tapping? Should you rub in your product or tap it in? I tap it in. I mentioned above that i spread the product before tapping it in, but you can also tap it in without doing that. I just find it more time efficient to spread it first. When i say spreading, i don't mean it as rubbing. I spread the product lightly with my finger without tugging at my skin, letting my finger slide across my face with the product. I don't do this with all products (like a thick moisturizer), but most of the time i do.

If you're afraid of wrinkles, i suggest tapping in your product like i explained above. I just prefer tapping because it feel nicer and fancier. Also because i'm Asian like Cho Chang from Harry Potter (what a meaningful and beautiful name - J.K. Rowling is truly great at being a bigot).

I will add more tips if i think of more.

[triedandthoughts]

PHOTOS ARE TAKEN ON AUGUST 2023 (some emptied/expired on or before Aug 2023)

WHAT IS IT: Hygiene Care

THOUGHTS:

Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 DAYS MIRACLE ANCE CLEAR BODY CLEANSER

I bought this product because I was getting Bacne. I was already breaking out on my face I was not about to let my back have one too. Unfortunately, it did not work on me SIGH. I think it made my Bacne worse, it did dry out the existing ones I have but again it made it worse. I was halfway down with the bottle when I made the decision to stop using it. I just used the remaining product on my grandma lol (PS: my lola has a broken left wrist so I have to give her a bath) My lola is a sweaty person and with sweat comes odor more often than not, I think it worked on her because the sweaty smell she had lessened. Probably better for that use rather than treating Bacne.

Deonat Mineral Deodorant

TBH, I don't remember having a skin/hygiene routine when I got pregnant back in 2018. All I remember is I had to stop BHA on my routine because it's not suitable for preggy women. During and post pregnancy my underarms became really dark but eventually after awhile it did lighten but it did not came back as it was before. I was just at a drugstore when I came across this product. Haven't tried stick tawas (alum) or stick deodorant before so why not right? The one I got is the Brightening one (they have 2? variations of this kind) If you're used to the roll on or the usual stick one, this one is different because it's a literal stick! It was weird to use at first because I was used to roll on deodorant, you have to wet the top with water then rub it in! Simple. Now, did it whitened my underarms? Not sure. But what made me repurchase this product is how 60g of product can literally last you a year! And I did not have an odor!! I'm not a sweaty person to begin with but if you live in a climate same as me you are going to sweat. Yes I sweat it's normal but no odor I tell you!!!

[mingirn]

hi! i'm giving these advices as a skincare enthusiast and not as a professional dermatologist 🥹

so when you do skincare it will be lightest/more runny products first. After cleanser, you can use toner. Toner as far as I know helps to prepare and your hydrate your skin so the following products can sink in better to your skin. There are toners you can use everyday. But toners with active ingredients like glycolic acid, aha, bha, and pha shouldn't be use everyday since they're exfoliating acids. better you use those 2-3x a week depending on how your skin can handle the actives. Toner is just optional tho.

after toner, serum/essence. essence and serums were kinda the same but different. Serums differs depending on your skin concerns (there are serums for acne, blemishes, etc.) meanwhile essence most of the time focuses on just hydration. you can use both everyday, but if you want a simpler routine you can just choose the serum since can target your concerns more and just choose a heavy moisturizer (if you have a dry skin dry skin). there are also serums with exfoliating acids tho, you can't use those everyday too.

next is moisturizer/hydrator. moisturizer is used when you want to lock moisture in your skin. while, hydrator is used when you want to attract moisture to your skin. you can use moisturizer if you have oily/normal skin. moisturizer is recommended for oily skin since it locks up moisture on the skin. the thing is when we cleanse our face, it strips away the moisture and oils in our skin, as a result the skin produces more moisture to your skin. putting moisturizer creates a trick that your skin is moisturize so your skin won't produce more oils. moisturizer is also advised for everyday use.

lastly, suncreen (during the day) with broad spectrum, and 30 spf and up is recommended. two finger rule, and also don't forget to reapply sunscreen when you're outside. wear sunscreen everyday, even if you'll just stay inside your house, rainy times, winter times, summer, etc.

extra 1: if you're planning to use retionol, cream retinol is better and easier to work with than serum type retinols. use sandwich method (moisturizer-retinol-moisturizer) if you're a beginner. retinol is not suitable for everyday use if you're a beginner, 1x a week is enough, and if your skin builds tolerance overtime you can then use it 2-3x a week the next month. you can't see instant result in retinol tho, sometimes it takes 3-9 months to see the results you're looking for. and also please start with a lower dosage retinol (0.1%) before going up (0.5% - 1%). research first before diving into retinol ♥️

extra 2: if you have sensitive skin please please please avoid exfoliating acids and the AlL nATuRAl skincares.

extra 3: never brush your teeth after cleansing your face. brush your teeth first before cleansing your face, its a must ♥️

extra 4: cleansing your face for 30secs - 1minute is recommended, especially if you have actives in your cleanser.

extra 5: have a one of two minutes before layering your skincare. let the first one sink in first for a minute of two before adding the next.

- 🥬

DUDE thank you so much. i can’t thank you enough you’re a saint for this thank you !!!

you’ve got me checking the ingredients on my toner now and trying to do math i dont know half this stuff but im listening. my toner does happen to have that glycolic acid thing so im thankful i havent been using that every day. i feel like my skin is so complicated because its dry but also oily and its sensitive but i dont really get breakouts or pimples. i cant ever tell what i need or dont need or whats good for my skin 😩

also i’ve never heard of a hydrator and im just sitting here reading this stuff and i feel so clueless wtf how are you SO smart how do you know all this stuff. /pos

ive been seeing a lot about retinol lately and im not entirely sure what it does like i need to do way more research i think but i saw a tiktok about it today and im like I Need That. ive never heard about the sandwich rule before though so thank you for that, and for the low dosage thing!! i’ll definitely do research and i think i also need to look at what brands are best (and also whats available for me where i live)

since getting this ask ive been cleansing my face for up to a minute which is something ive NEVER done before man i was always so quick and trying to get it over with as fast as possible. you’re putting me onto so much new stuff i cant thank you enough.

THANK YOU ANON you are so kind thank you for writing all of this im gonna screenshot and print it out man you’re amazing for this. thank you youre so smart 💗🙏🏻 i hope youre having an amazing day!