Firstly, I have terribly sensitive skin. Its oily, prone to breakouts and blackheads, and has big pores. That is the reason I do not try very many products. Once I find what works for me (which I have) I stick with it. Face is not the place to do any experiments. Ever.
After visiting dermatologists for past 2 decades and trying all the
gherelo nuskas (home remedies) I have learnt that the simple - clean and moisturize works for me the best. Also, not to mention regular exercise and clean eating has A LOT to do with my healthy skin. *touch.wood* 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 Avéne - Cleanance Gel I started using this about a decade back. My BFF introduced me to this brand. This is ideal for oily and/or sensitive skin. Doesn't sting or leave your skin dry. I use this in the mornings and highly recommend it to everyone who has sensitive skin. In India, I used Cetaphil Cleanser or Fab India Avocado Facewash.Aveda - 'enbrightement' Brightening Correcting Serum
I am prone to dark spots (I blame my genes!). Hence, I started applying this about two years ago. It helps maintain an even skin tone. It is light in texture and absorbs quickly. I apply it first thing after washing my face. I didn't use any serum when I lived in India, sorry! But Olay would be my pick if Aveda wasn't available.Philosophy - Hope Oil Free spf
I tan quite easily, and spf 20 doesn't protect my face enough in the Texas sun. I moved to spf 30 two years ago and it seems to be the right match. I like philosophy products. This one is light, absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a white residue. In India, I used Kaya Skin Clinic Sun Screen.
Philosophy - Hope in a tube I do not have any visible wrinkles yet, but long time ago I had asked someone who was in her 50's and had perfect skin without any cosmetic treatment, how she managed to do that? She told me that she started using anti-wrinkle creams from the age of 25. Made total sense to me, prevention is better than cure after all. Going by my hereditary I thought targeting my eyes would be the best, hence I started using an eye cream from the age of 25. First I used Neutregena for several years, which seemed fine. But then moved to Philosophy about two years ago when I picked the sunscreen. So far I am satisfied. When I start seeing wrinkles, I will know if it worked or not ;) P.S. I didn't use an eye cream when I lived in India, sorry!
Burt's Bees - Soap Bark & Camomile Deep Cleansing Creme
This is the second fash wash I use in the evening. I always stick with either a gel or a creme based washes as they do not make my skin overtly dry. When my skin gets too dry, I get more break outs. I have been using this for about 8 months and I think it does its job well.P.S. I am a big fan of burt bee's products.Like I have mentioned a million times, if not more, that I do not use make-up. I also think that it is one of the reasons why my skin is healthier, younger and cleaner than many others of my age. I do not have any scientific research to back up my claims but no one in my family uses make up (Mom and aunts) and they all look at least two decades younger, if not more! :P
So, that is that!