If Part 1 of my skincare routine is all about keeping my skin soft and hydrated, then part 2 is all for a smooth and congestion free complexion. Congestion is probably my biggest skin concern – I have been battling with it (mainly the nose area and some pores on the cheeks and chin) for years! I used to go for facials (for extractions) at least once a month – although it really helped to keep the pores clear, it was just a temporary fix as my pores would be blocked again within weeks. I also noticed that my pores were enlarged over time. For years I have been seeking every possible way to keep my skin congestion free as well as have my pores minimized. This is the routine I have been following and I have noticed a significant improvement in my skin.
The best thing I have ever done for my skin was to stop using the products that are designed for oily skin. I had oily skin so I was told to use the oil controlling products at every cosmetics counter I visited. These products were so harsh to my skin that they completely stripped the natural oil, and as a result my skin became even more oily. The day I switched from these products, my skin completely went back to normal – I didn’t have to blot my face throughout the day anymore!
Other than taking care of my skin in the right way on a daily basis, these are the products I use probably once a week to keep my complexion smooth, radiant as well as helping the prevention of blackheads and whiteheads from occurring.
EXFOLIATORS – twice a week
I am quite addicted to using exfoliators as I love the smooth feel of the my skin afterwards. I am currently using the Cosmedicine Self Adjusting Exfoliator – my all time favorite..sad that this brand has been discontinued…Glad that I have recently found Elemis Skin Buff which is just as good, love the extra fine granules. The Kiehl’s Epidermal Re-texturizing Micro Dermabrasion is not a bad product, but I find it doesn’t make the skin as smooth as the other two exfoliators.
PEELS – once every 2 weeks
My recent obsession. Peels keep my skin staying radiant and fresh for days. I have already reviewed the Philosophy Microdelivery Peel, it does what it claims to but I was on a hunt for a better product. Absolutely love my recent purchase of the Decleor Experience De L’Age Resurfacing Gel-peeling – it is easier to use and it makes my skin silky smooth and luminous for days.
DEEP CLEANSING MASK – once or twice a week
At the moment I am using REN Multi-Mineral Pore Minimising Detox Mask. It is a gentle deep cleansing mask designed to reduce the pore size, combat blackheads and leave the skin decongested. It comes in a soft clay texture and it can be removed by rubbing it off with fingertips.
AHA and BHA – I use it whenever I see blackheads/whiteheads forming
I don’t have congested skin on my cheeks and chins anymore. But when everything else fails to keep the pores clear on my nose, I like to apply AHA and BHA on the affected area. I used to use Neo Strata AHA 15 in conjunction with Paula’s Choice 2% BHA – they work great but might be irritating for sensitive skin. The Avene Cleanance K with AHA and BHA is a more gentle version and can be used daily to help eliminate blackheads and other blemishes.
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